Holistic Dogs Report

Congratulations on your new puppy! If this is your first dog, the following list will tell you about all the vital things your new doggy will need.

1) A name – One of the first things your new dog needs (if she or he doesn’t already have one) is a name. For some suggestions and inspiration, check out this website for a list of male dog names and female dog names.

2) A crate or cage – A crate is a solidly built container that can be used to safely carry and contain your canine. Make sure that it is big  enough for your canine to stand up and turn themselves around in.  A number of people use a crate or cage to train their dogs and to supply their dogs with a region  that is their own space.

3) A dog collar, tag and leash – these 3 things are imperative for safety and identification.  Check to see that a tag or other fashion of identification (with your name, current address and phone number) is tightly fastened to your canine’s collar so that if your dog goes missing, it can be returned to you.  Also, for the safety of your dog and others, don’t walk your pooch without a leash. Leashes come in a mixture of designs, including retractable leashes or ones with lights for night walking.

4) Dog food – many dog foods are made with cheap ingredients and fillers with low or no nutrients. If you would like your pup to live a long, cheerful life (and if you want to avoid unnecessary veterinary bills), take the initiative to feed him or her a good caliber dog food!  See this article to inform yourself about dog food ingredients and find out how you can get high quality food at low prices.

5) Water and food bowls – these come in all shapes and sizes. Separate water and food bowls are easier to fill than ones that are connected. Some are even electronically operated so that your dog can be fed even if you’re not at home.  Use your lifestyle and budget to influence your choice.  Just remember to ALWAYS leave your puppy with an abundance of fresh water.

6) Dog treats and chews – canines love to chew (especially puppies) so it’s not a bad idea to give them something to chew on other than your shoes and other personal items.   There are plenty of options – rawhide, freeze-dried meat and dental dog treats (like Greenies) are just some of them.

7) Dog brush – keep your pooch looking great and minimize shedding by brushing them a few times a week.  For serious shedders, products like the FURminator deshedding tool are really great at lowering the amount of hair your dog leaves around the house.  

Flea and tick treatments – if you don’t want your home infested by fleas and ticks (and who does!) it’s not a bad idea to treat your puppy with a product that kills and repels for up to 30 days (such as the one’s made by Frontline) or to use a dog collar that also repels these pests.

9) Dog bed – a dog bed will help your puppy sleep comfortably and also provide him with a space in your home that is their very own place. (It might also discourage them from trying to jump onto your own bed!)

10) Dog toys – like dog treats and chews, dog toys will help keep your dog away from things you don’t want to be chewed!   They’re also a great way to play with and exercise your pup, which helps diminish problem behaviors.  Look for items that you can play fetch with or that will keep your dog active like the KONG dog toy that bounces in various directions.