Everyone loves an adorable new puppy, and many families will be welcoming a new bundle of furry joy into their homes this year. While puppies have the advantage of growing alongside your family, it’s important to remember that thousands of loving adult dogs are just waiting for a new family to call their own.
Many adult dogs end up at shelters looking to find the right match with their new owners. Adult dogs are the perfect solution for busy families or single individuals that don’t have the time and patience to dedicate to puppy training.
If you’re thinking about adopting or rescuing a dog from your local shelter, you will need to pick up a few things and research dog food brand reviews to get your home ready for your new best friend. Let’s take a closer look at a few of the must-have supplies for your new dog.
Waste Management
The one thing that you can always count on from your dog is that they will need to go out to do their business several times a day. You will want to have the right supplies before bringing your new dog home. Get a package of pickup bags that you can take with you on your walks to clean up any mess. You should also buy some puppy training pads for your home. Even if your new dog is an adult, moving into a new home can be confusing and stressful, and they may have a few accidents at first. You will want to have the right cleaning supplies like deodorants and carpet pet cleaners for those little accidents.
Dog Bed
Your choice of dog beds will largely depend on the size of your dog and its history. Many adult dogs will want to have their own bed representing their own safe space to sleep. Once you know how big your new dog is, you should buy a pet bed where they can sleep with lots of extra room.
Dog Crate
If your new dog is used to being crated at night or when you are not home, you will need to invest in one. Many crate-trained dogs take comfort in having a safe space where they can escape.
Feeding Bowls
Metal food and water bowls are the best options for your new dog, as they are sturdy and easy to clean. For larger dogs, you should choose a set of bowls with their own elevated stand so that they won’t have to stoop down to eat. Most dogs make a bit of a mess when they eat, so you may want to consider putting an eating placement underneath their bowls.
Toys
Every dog loves to have toys to play with. Make sure that you buy toys that are durable, pet friendly, and suitable to their size. Toys like ropes or chewing loops are great for your dog’s teeth.
Leash and Collar
Your new dog may come with its own collar, but you will need a leash. The size of your dog should determine your choice of a leash. Larger dogs have more power to pull on their leash, so they will need something sturdier than you would need for a small dog.
Dog Food
If possible, you should find out what type of dog food your new pup has been eating. Changing to a new brand abruptly can cause your dog digestive issues. If you want to change foods, it’s best to do it slowly. Dog food that is holistically blended will be great for your dog’s overall health and nutrition. Bringing a new dog home can be both exciting and stressful for you and your new pet. Having the right supplies on hand before bringing your dog home can help you make a smooth transition.
Meg is an author at Cinnamon Hollow. She writes on a variety of topics sharing tips and ideas for daily life.