Have you finally decided to adopt that cute dog you’ve wanted for a long time? If the answer is yes, you’ve made a wonderful decision. Having a dog will increase your quality of life and make you happier. But before you bring it to your home, there are several essentials you need to buy.

These things will help your new friend adapt to the new surroundings and make him feel welcome. Plus, it’ll be easier for you to stay organised.

Dog Collar

A collar is an important accessory that every dog owner should have. It’s a tool that will help you take the dog for walks, train it and even teach it new tricks. In the past, collars were dull, had no colours and were very plain. But nowadays, things have changed. Collars come in many shapes, designs, colours and patterns.

There are plenty of stylish and comfortable dog collars to choose from. The buckle type is one of them. It’s a popular choice, especially if you own a smaller-breed dog. It’s not very effective when it comes to training, but it’s good after you’ve gone through the process. It’s usually made of nylon or leather, and it’s a good choice if you want to make your pup fashionable.

There’s also the prong collar. The dog training community has divided opinions on whether to use it or not because of the pressure it applies to the dog’s neck. It’ll make the dog feel uncomfortable, and it’ll stop jumping, barking or running. A choke chain is another option. When the dog is disobeying, you’ll slightly pull the leash, and the collar will tighten around the neck. Just make sure you’re using it properly.

Constant barking is a problem that many new dog owners face. Some dogs bark at just about everything, and it can become annoying and disturbing at some point. In this case, you can use an anti-bark collar. This device uses small electric currents to calm down the dog and make it stop. It’s very effective, and you’ll see results very soon.

But before you choose a collar, you need to know the right size. You’ll need to measure the circumference of the dog’s neck with a soft measuring tape. There should be enough room for movement, so make sure you can fit 2 fingers between the collar and the dog. Leather and nylon are the most common materials because they’re strong, durable, dry fast and look pretty.

Dog Bed

Just like humans, dogs need a good night’s sleep to function properly and have a good day. So, choosing the proper dog bed is very important. The cave bed is an option that will give your pup a safe place, somewhere they can feel cozy and at ease. This is especially helpful for puppies that have just been separated from their mom. The high edge around it gives it a feeling of safety and comfort like no other.

The elevated bed doesn’t look luxurious but it’s one of the most comfortable ones. It’s practical and will keep the dog elevated from the ground creating a path for air circulation. This regulates the dog’s body temperature and prevents overheating. It’s also easy to transport and you can use it in the park, while camping or take it with you on vacation.

If you want to give your new friend a very comfortable place to sleep, you should get a memory foam bed. It’s elegant, sophisticated and extremely comfortable. Memory foam has the power to adjust to the dog’s body shape and provide proper support to its muscles and spine. It also improves blood circulation and regulates body temperature.

Dog mats can be another alternative. They’re not considered a bed on their own. You can use them to add another layer of comfort over the current bed you have. A cotton one will be perfect because it’s breathable and comfortable. If you want to use it outside, jute is a good idea. All of these beds are simple and easy to clean. If you’re not sure which one to get, consult with a veterinarian or ask at the store. They can give you info about the bed, dog collars, bowls, food and anything else you might be confused about.

Food Bowls

Feeding time is one of the most exciting moments is a dog’s day. Your pup should have a proper bowl to eat from as soon as it gets in the house. Stainless steel bowls are a great option. They’re very strong, durable, easy to clean and hygienic. Ceramic bowls are heavier and won’t move around as much when the dog eats. But they need a more thorough cleaning after every use.

If you decide to go for a plastic food bowl, make sure it doesn’t contain any toxic materials that can affect the food and your dog’s health. The bowl’s size depends on the dog’s size and how much food it consumes in one meal. It should be able to hold at least 2–4 times the food your dog eats. This way, the pup can eat it comfortably by pushing it around.

Just like with collars for dogs, the type of bowl you get will also depend on the dog’s breed. Pets with longer snouts can use a deeper bowl; those with shorter and wider snouts need a wider and shallower bowl. If the pup is moving a lot while eating, get a bowl with a non-slip, rubberized bottom to keep it in place. And if it’s a fast eater, pick a wobbly bowl with grooves to prevent them from simply inhaling the food.

Bath Supplies

Baths are an inseparable part of the dog’s hygiene and cleanliness. They take out the dirt and debris after a muddy walk in the park and keep the dog healthier and free of parasites. You don’t have to take the dog to the groomer every time. Just buy a few bathing supplies and you’re good to go. Never use human shampoo on dogs because the chemicals inside can harm the dog’s skin and fur.

Choose the shampoo according to the dog breed and the climate. Go for a subtle smell—nothing overpowering because your buddy won’t like it. Natural and fresh ingredients such as aloe vera, chamomile and lavender are perfect. Complement the shampoo with a conditioner if the breed requires it. Also, buy some brushes and combs to keep the fur clean, mat-free and shiny.