Getting a dog is not an easy decision, as there are many factors to consider. But once you say yes to that, you can be sure you did the right thing. Pets enrich our lives and bring joy, giving us immense love and asking for nothing in return. So if you think having a puppy, here’s how to choose your new furry buddy.

If you’re an experienced pup parent, you probably know that you need to purchase some essentials before your new furry family member comes to your home. But as a first-time owner, you’re probably overwhelmed with information and a bit confused. That’s why we created a handy guide on buying all necessities you should buy before your new puppy arrives.

Get a Bed for Your New Pet

Your new pet should have a place in your home right from the start. It’s certainly good to make some corners in your house pup-friendly, but what will make your new family member feel at home is their own beds. It’s where they will spend a lot of time, especially as puppies, as they sleep for more than 12 hours a day, so you have to choose the pup bed carefully.

Considering your dog will spend most of the day in this place, the bed should be comfortable. The best choice for puppies is donut beds, where they can curl up and sleep peacefully, but you can also choose a “regular” square mattress pad. If you opted for a breed with long, thick hair, a good choice is elevated beds that prevent overheating.

Then, depending on the breed of dog you have chosen, you have to find the appropriate bed size. Keep in mind that some dogs grow fast, so it’s always a good idea to opt for a larger bed so you don’t have to go shopping again soon. Also, it’s good that a sleeping spot is made of materials resistant to wear and tear because there is a big chance that your pup will sometimes want to bite or chew their cribs.

Quality Pup Food

The nutritional needs of each dog are different, but, in general, puppies eat more often than adult dogs, so the food you give them should be of high quality. Feeding will be done more often, of course, in smaller amounts. You will increase these as your dog grows.

The puppies’ diet should include both wet and dry food. As they grow, they need more solid, dry food like kibbles to strengthen their teeth and jaw and develop a proper bite. Plus, kibbles are easier to dose and more abundant in proteins and healthy fats than wet food. Don’t worry about whether such food will be “monotonous” because it already contains all the necessary nutrients.

The recommendation for new pet owners is not to experiment too much with different pet food brands. Certainly, your choice should always be premium food, and it’s best to listen to the advice of your vet. They’ll recommend a specific brand and food type depending on your pup’s needs.

Puppy Treats

Quality food is certainly of essential importance for your dog’s health, but let’s not forget about small pleasures such as treats. These tasty snacks are a real source of joy for your little furry buddy, and they can be a great help to you during training. That is why their choice should be given the same attention as when it comes to pup food.

Make sure you always choose healthy treats for your pooch. Given that food already contains enough protein and fat, snacks should be low in these nutrients and free of artificial matter. If you’re into cooking and making healthy meals, you can always try some homemade treats loaded with healthy ingredients.

Lots of Toys

Puppies are like kids, only that puppyhood lasts about two years. During that time, dogs will go through various stages, and what they always need are suitable toys. These will not only entertain them but also help them to develop properly, both physically and mentally. They are also an excellent thing for your pup to overcome boredom and learn some new skills and good manners.

Toys should be adapted to the age and size of your dog. The priority is to choose those made of safe and durable materials. But don’t think of your pup’s toys as something permanent, considering that the new furry family member will probably destroy them quickly. Toys at this age are “consumable goods,” so there is no need to spend too much money on them.

Choose a few balls that your pup will chase, some squeaky toys to keep them occupied, some things they can chew, as well as plushies. Your new furry body will soon choose a favorite toy to comfort and keep them company even when they sleep. As your four-legged friend grows, you should invest in more interactive toys suitable for physical and mental training, such as all kinds of puzzles, but also more durable chewers.

Accessories

As for accessories, you need a collar, name tag, leash, and possibly a muzzle basket. Your new furry family member needs a good amount of exercise, of course, adapted to their age. So get everything you need for a safe walk and stay in nature.

Puppies are still sensitive to low temperatures, so it’s desirable to get them some comfy and warm clothes. You can find many fancy apparels in reputable pet stores, so you might be interested in Petco hours to visit them and find the cutest outfits for your little buddy. You could also use some essential grooming tools to keep your pet well-trimmed and healthy.

While you’re thrilled about your new puppy, you shouldn’t forget about their needs. They need a comfy spot, quality food, and all kinds of toys and accessories. So get ready to spend some money on stuff that’ll make their lives much better and be of great help to you.