With approximately 13.5 million dogs as pets in the UK, it is no wonder that Brits are flocking to the internet to check what they need to buy as first-time owners.
Search data shows that an average of 1000 Brits every month search for new puppy checklists so Norfolk-based brand TopDog, which sells dog harnesses and collars, sought expert guidance with Danielle Taylor, founder and director of Doggy Adventures, pet care services, to curate the ultimate buying guide for new dog owners.
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Dog bed/crate
Creating the right environment for your new dog or puppy to get some sleep on their first night in your home is essential.
Danielle notes that it is very common for puppies to cry on their first night in a new home, but that this should subside over time, and advises the following: “Create a safe space for your puppy (or any dog) to go to rest and relax throughout the day and at night (most people opt for a crate), and work on building a positive association with that area. When bringing a puppy home, place an item in their bed that smells of their previous place for added reassurance.”
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Old towels
These are recommended when the inevitable night-time accidents occur with a new puppy. Old towels are perfect to use when toilet training as they can be thrown in the washing machine and disinfected thoroughly.
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Enzymatic cleaner
This is Danielle’s top tip and a must-have when accidents happen. The enzymatic cleaner will clean up any accidents and also prevent reoffending.
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Collar or harness
Whether you go for a collar or harness is ultimately up to you, and can sometimes be based on the breed or size of your dog.
Collars can either be a slip or a head collar, or you have harnesses for full body support. Danielle recommends a harness for this reason: “Once your dog is fully grown, invest in a good quality harness that fits well and has a front and back loop for attaching a lead (especially for larger/strong breeds).”
Some harnesses, such as those from TopDog, can also be adjusted to support your dog as they grow.
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Lead
There are a few different leads you can choose from for walking your pup. You can opt for slip leads, which are used as a popular method for training, chain leads, which are great if your dog has a tendency to chew on the lead, retractable leads for distance or double-ended leads, which Danielle prefers: “I love using double-ended leads (clips on both ends) as these provide more control and come with options in lead length and can help with loose lead walking.”
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Identification tag
Every dog needs to have an identification tag secured to their collar as it is a legal requirement to do so, which must display their owner’s name, address and contact details.
This doesn’t have to be boring though, with many designs available such as tags that match the collars and harnesses.
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Toothbrushes and toothpaste
It is best to introduce teeth brushing as early as you can with a new puppy, and there are a variety of toothbrushes and pastes available which aim to make the experience as pleasant as possible.
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Natural chews
There are also natural ways you can keep your dog’s dental hygiene in great condition. Danielle advises: “[You can] provide dog-safe cooked bones, natural chews (such as rabbit ears and chicken feet) to their diet. I personally do not recommend ‘Dental Sticks’, as they are much too soft to break down plaque and are often very high in calories.”
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Grooming tools and PH balanced shampoo
Depending on your breed of dog will depend on the brushes or combs needed, so Danielle advises checking with a professional groomer for recommendations: “It is best to ask a groomer for the specific brushes you would need for your dog’s coat type, but staples include a metal tooth comb and dog-specific shampoo (PH balanced for dogs skin).”
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Dog drying robe
These will prove to be more useful than you realise! Dog drying robes are not only great for post-bathtimes but also great for after swims or muddy walks and are less faff than towels.
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Tug and chew toys/enrichment feeders
Mental stimulation, enrichment and independence are all things dog owners need to encourage their dogs to be practising for their development and training.
Danielle notes that “mental wellbeing is just as important as physical” and recommends tug and chew toys along with enrichment toys for feeding such as puzzle feeders and treat balls.
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Dog bowls
A well-fed dog is a happy dog, especially when it is getting the right amount of nutrients and tasty treats. Not only is it important to get the right food, but the right bowl will also help.
Danielle recommends a heavy-based water bowl to prevent dogs from tipping them over, and a slow feeder bowl for slowing down dogs who might eat fast, thus preventing bloating.
For more guidance on what to buy your new dog and some bonus must-haves, head to TopDog’s ultimate buying guide.