HOW TO USE THIS PAGE
Below are suggestions and links to items or products that we use and/or recommend to help you get started with your new puppy. Some have "click here" type buttons, some you can click the titles and the link will take you where you want to go. Links are highlighted in green. I hope these suggested products are helpful to you and you enjoy shopping for your new puppy! Have fun!
Before Your Puppy Comes Home
NEW PUPPY SUPPLIES CHECK LIST:
We all love our new puppies and we want them to have the VERY BEST. Here is a list of what we think you should have on hand BEFORE your puppy arrives. See our recommendations below.
We all love our new puppies and we want them to have the VERY BEST. Here is a list of what we think you should have on hand BEFORE your puppy arrives. See our recommendations below.
wHAT wE fEED-
PURINA PRO PLAN FOCUS PUPPY- Puppies need special nutrition. There are lots and lots of choices when it comes to what to feed your puppy. This choice that you make plays an important role in your pets health and longevity. We DO NOT feed grain free. As you may have heard, it has been linked to heart disease in dogs. Based on the advise of our vet, we feed Purina Pro Plan Focus Puppy with DHA for brain and vision.
NUVET IMMUNE BOOSTER- We feed & HIGHLY recommend NuVet Plus immune booster. It provides vital nutrients you puppy needs for optimal health & to boost immunity for the longest, healthiest life possible. Use it as a treat. They love it! For more information, click on the button below or call 800-474-7400, reference code #86321. (They also carry all natural ear cleaner, shampoos and spot remover for potty training.
THE BASICS-
Listed below are some of the basic things you will need when you bring your new puppy home. We have provided links to help you with your shopping.
BOOKS AND VIDEOS-
Personally, I’ve learned the most about dog training from Cesar Millan. Cesar's approach it to always think how the dog thinks; "dog psychology." Why do our dogs do what they do? His "Dog Whisperer" TV show has brought him into the national spotlight; he has several books out, and a very helpful website.
How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond –by Cesar Millan
It all starts with the proper foundation in the early years. Here, Cesar tells you everything you need to know to create the best environment for a well-balanced dog in order to avoid behavior issues in the future, and shows you how to correct the most common behavior issues for young dogs.
It all starts with the proper foundation in the early years. Here, Cesar tells you everything you need to know to create the best environment for a well-balanced dog in order to avoid behavior issues in the future, and shows you how to correct the most common behavior issues for young dogs.
Zak George's Dog Training Revolution: The Complete Guide to Raising the Perfect Pet with Love
Another popular dog trainer is Zak George. He has written a great book that teaches you more of the basic dog training commands using clickers and treats.
Another popular dog trainer is Zak George. He has written a great book that teaches you more of the basic dog training commands using clickers and treats.
Puppy Culture: The Powerful First 12 Weeks That Can Shape Your Puppy’s Future
A new film from Jane Killion, Author of When Pigs Fly: Training Success With Impossible Dogs! Everything you need to know about puppies, broken down into easy-to-digest 5-15 minute lessons. This is the program that has taken the dog world by storm and is highly recommended. A Complete Program, From Breeder To Puppy Owner!
A new film from Jane Killion, Author of When Pigs Fly: Training Success With Impossible Dogs! Everything you need to know about puppies, broken down into easy-to-digest 5-15 minute lessons. This is the program that has taken the dog world by storm and is highly recommended. A Complete Program, From Breeder To Puppy Owner!
LEASHES, COLLARS AND TAGS-
A Little Bit About Leash Etiquette!!!
We are NOT fans of retractable leashes! They are dangerous and limit your control. They also are an annoyance to your fellow dog owners when your dog runs up to sniff not only your dog but you. I can't tell you how many times this has happened to me, especially when I am waiting in the vet's office for my appointment. I DO love dogs. I DO think your dog is cute. I DO NOT want your dog to run up to me and sniff me; I may have new puppies at home and do not want to take outside germs back to them.
We are NOT fans of retractable leashes! They are dangerous and limit your control. They also are an annoyance to your fellow dog owners when your dog runs up to sniff not only your dog but you. I can't tell you how many times this has happened to me, especially when I am waiting in the vet's office for my appointment. I DO love dogs. I DO think your dog is cute. I DO NOT want your dog to run up to me and sniff me; I may have new puppies at home and do not want to take outside germs back to them.
CNATTAGS – Stainless Steel with Enamel Pet ID Tags Round Paw
GoTags Personalized Dog Collar-- strong nylon dog collar comes personalized with your dog's name and phone number permanently stitched into the collar for long lasting identification.
Max and Neo Nylon Martingale Collar- The martingale collar can be used so your dog can't back out of their collar. It can also be used for training dogs not to pull. When you tug on the leash to correct the dog, the pressure of the collar is distributed evenly. On a regular collar, the pressure is placed on the front of the neck. Max and Neo also donates a collar for every collar purchased to dog rescue.
Max and Neo Double Handle Traffic Dog Leash Reflective-We love these leashes with the double handle and for every one purchased, Max and Neo donate a leash to dog rescue.
PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness, (Upgrade Version)
No choke front lead, reflective, adjustable soft padded vest with easy control handle for small to large dogs. Note: We recommend you always use a collar on your dog in addition to your dog harness, as most dogs can back out of a harness.
No choke front lead, reflective, adjustable soft padded vest with easy control handle for small to large dogs. Note: We recommend you always use a collar on your dog in addition to your dog harness, as most dogs can back out of a harness.
BEDS
A little bit about beds. We don't use beds in puppy's crate until your puppy is housetrained. Used before then, your puppy will use it to potty on. However, it is nice to have a comfy bed handy for your pup to plop down on to chew his favorite toy or for a quick nap.
SportPet Designs Luxury Waterproof Pet Bed - Machine Washable Sofa Bed, High-density foam cushion with waterproof lining, removable cover is 100% machine washable.
Long Rich HCT ERE-001 Super Soft Sherpa Crate Cushion Dog and Pet Bed, White, By Happycare Textiles--Ultra soft synthetic sheep wool bed. Machine washable, anti-slip bottom.
SportPet Designs Luxury Waterproof Pet Bed - Machine Washable Sofa Bed, High-density foam cushion with waterproof lining, removable cover is 100% machine washable.
Long Rich HCT ERE-001 Super Soft Sherpa Crate Cushion Dog and Pet Bed, White, By Happycare Textiles--Ultra soft synthetic sheep wool bed. Machine washable, anti-slip bottom.
SNUGGLE PUPPY
Snuggle Puppy-We have heard great things about these!
- The original Snuggle Puppy, celebrating 22 years of comforting pets
- Helps with crate training by reducing negative behaviors such as whining and barking, which also helps YOU sleep at night
- Helps pets transition to their new home and reduces stress caused by fireworks and thunderstorms
- “Real-feel” pulsing heartbeat and heat pack calm by appealing to natural instincts
- Machine washable on gentle cycle
BOWLS
PetFusion Premium Brushed Anti-tip Dog & Cat Bowls-- (Set of 2 Bowls). We like that this is made from food grade stainless steel and has a bonded silicone ring for traction. Stainless steel is best to prevent chemicals leaching into the food and water. Get the 32 oz. size.
CHEW BONES/TEETHING TOYS/
Chew bones - We recommend and only give our dogs "knuckle" bones or knee caps. No long bones (shank) as these can splinter into needle sharp pieces. NO RAWHIDE CHEWS! These not only cause gastric issues but when in small pieces can be a choking hazard for your puppy.
All Natural Premium Dog Bones for Aggressive Chewers - Made in USA - Smoked and Dried for Full Flavor! (Knee Caps 10 Pack)
Pawstruck Meaty Knuckle Dog Bones - Bulk Healthy Dog Dental Treats & Natural Chews, Made in The USA, American Made, bulk box lasts a long time.
ZNOKA Pet Products Arctic Freeze Fetch Food Cooling Teether Chew Toy Perfect for teething puppies, freezable stress relief toy this toy helps solve chewing, separation anxiety, teething, boredom, weight management, crate training, digging, barking and more.
CRATES
Crates come in two types, the fold up wire crates and the plastic crates. We like to use the wire crates here. There is better ventilation and your pup is better able to see and be a part of the room in one. If needed, you can always cover with a blanket to make his "den" more private for him and to reduce stimulation. Wire crates come in two options; single door or double door. We like the double door as it gives you more flexibility in how you place it in your room.
Why should you crate train your puppy? My friend Barbara Dearajo from Dreamy Doodles in Woodland, Washington explains it this way. I think it is as good an explanation as I have heard. "You wouldn’t let your human toddler crawl all over the house while you slept or worked… so don’t let your puppy! Using the crate as a house-training tool is SMART...Just like we use cribs for our human babies.. We use crates for our fur babies! Simple as that, to keep them safe and to help them with potty training. Crate training is a win-win for both you and YOUR PUPPY! Crates only need to be used for a VERY short period of time. Once potty training is completed you can just leave the door open BUT believe it or not.. they will STILL use it as their safe place if you’ve done it right. Collapsible metal crates are more practical for crate training because they can more easily be sectioned off into appropriately-sized spaces while your puppy grows. They are easier to store and MUCH easier to clean since they have the removable plastic tray in the bottom.
Dogs are den animals. The purpose of a crate is to use the canine's natural desire and instinct to keep where they sleep (their den) clean.
The crate should be large enough for the puppy or dog to stand up without having to hunch, lie on his side with legs outstretched, and turn around with ease. But a crate used for house-training should be no bigger than this, or your puppy will arrange his crate to have both a bedroom and a bathroom.
If the crate is of the right size, it’s almost guaranteed they will want to go potty the minute they come out; so a swift trip outdoors will give them the opportunity to practice going potty in the right place and gives you a training opportunity to congratulate them with a walk, game or treat—the perfect house-training scenario. We pick our puppies up and carry them to the door so they don't have the opportunity to make a mistake until they get the hang of it. If done right, your puppy will view the crate as their safe place/their haven.
*puppies can go twice as long at night.. IF you have them on a good potty and feeding schedule."
Why should you crate train your puppy? My friend Barbara Dearajo from Dreamy Doodles in Woodland, Washington explains it this way. I think it is as good an explanation as I have heard. "You wouldn’t let your human toddler crawl all over the house while you slept or worked… so don’t let your puppy! Using the crate as a house-training tool is SMART...Just like we use cribs for our human babies.. We use crates for our fur babies! Simple as that, to keep them safe and to help them with potty training. Crate training is a win-win for both you and YOUR PUPPY! Crates only need to be used for a VERY short period of time. Once potty training is completed you can just leave the door open BUT believe it or not.. they will STILL use it as their safe place if you’ve done it right. Collapsible metal crates are more practical for crate training because they can more easily be sectioned off into appropriately-sized spaces while your puppy grows. They are easier to store and MUCH easier to clean since they have the removable plastic tray in the bottom.
Dogs are den animals. The purpose of a crate is to use the canine's natural desire and instinct to keep where they sleep (their den) clean.
The crate should be large enough for the puppy or dog to stand up without having to hunch, lie on his side with legs outstretched, and turn around with ease. But a crate used for house-training should be no bigger than this, or your puppy will arrange his crate to have both a bedroom and a bathroom.
If the crate is of the right size, it’s almost guaranteed they will want to go potty the minute they come out; so a swift trip outdoors will give them the opportunity to practice going potty in the right place and gives you a training opportunity to congratulate them with a walk, game or treat—the perfect house-training scenario. We pick our puppies up and carry them to the door so they don't have the opportunity to make a mistake until they get the hang of it. If done right, your puppy will view the crate as their safe place/their haven.
*puppies can go twice as long at night.. IF you have them on a good potty and feeding schedule."
I recommend the Midwest Life Stages Double-Door Pet Crate (MAKE SURE AND CLICK THE LINK FOR DOUBLE DOOR) and the MidWest Dog Crate Cover, Privacy Dog Crate Cover Fits MidWest Dog Crates, Machine Wash & Dry
Crate Mat: Use after your puppy is crate trained. If used during the training phase, they will use it to potty on. JoicyCo Dog Bed Crate Pad Mat 36/42/47 in Anti-Slip 100% Washable Dog Mattress Pets Kennel Pads
Teaching your puppy how to notify you when they have to go potty is HALF the battle. Giving them something tangible to use for a signal helps. PoochieBells House Training Doggie Doorbell. Price: $16.99
Training-
Suggestions for Basic Obedience Training
Training treats
Dog training clicker
Leash/harness and collar
Your voice
Puppy class
Books, videos (Suggestions above, especially Puppy Culture)
Training treats
Dog training clicker
Leash/harness and collar
Your voice
Puppy class
Books, videos (Suggestions above, especially Puppy Culture)
Puppy treats-should be small pieces. (Remember, they are a reward, not a meal. Think of it as a small piece of candy, not a sandwich. CHECK INGREDIENTS!- NO raw hide or imported from China!
EcoCity 4-Pack Dog Training Clicker with Wrist Strap - Comes in black, red, white and blue. Has elastic wrist strap, button presses easily and comes right back up without getting stuck.
NutriSource Grain-Free Soft Bites 3 Flavor Treat Bundle, Rabbit, Salmon, Duck We like these treats because they are small and are a true treat. Pieces should be small pieces. (Remember, they are a reward, not a meal. Think of it as a small piece of candy, not a sandwich.) CHECK INGREDIENTS!- NO raw hide or imported from China!
Bil-Jac Little Jacs Small Dog Treat – Liver – 10 oz Small dog treats made with real chicken liver that dogs love. No soy products or gluten meal.
Bil-Jac Little Jacs Small Dog Treat – Liver – 10 oz Small dog treats made with real chicken liver that dogs love. No soy products or gluten meal.
StarMark Clicker Dog Training System - for clicker training if that is what you plan to do.
Midwest Black E-Coat Exercise Pen, 24″H x 8 x 24″W
BestPet Heavy Duty Pet Playpen Dog Cat Fence B Exercise Pen, 24-Inch, Black
IRIS Indoor/Outdoor Plastic Pet Pen with 4 OR 8 Panels *Note, the 4 panel is way too small so get 8 panels.
Summer Infant Multi-Use Deco Extra Tall Walk-Thru Gate, Bronze (28.5-48") We like the ability to resize this gate to fit different doorways. I have ordered other gates in the past that don't fit and find it frustrating and a waste of money.
FLOOR SAVER: Scrap linoleum (usually you can get a piece of 6' x 9' for about $25 at a big box hardware store.) I think this is a better option than poly tarps.
BestPet Heavy Duty Pet Playpen Dog Cat Fence B Exercise Pen, 24-Inch, Black
IRIS Indoor/Outdoor Plastic Pet Pen with 4 OR 8 Panels *Note, the 4 panel is way too small so get 8 panels.
Summer Infant Multi-Use Deco Extra Tall Walk-Thru Gate, Bronze (28.5-48") We like the ability to resize this gate to fit different doorways. I have ordered other gates in the past that don't fit and find it frustrating and a waste of money.
FLOOR SAVER: Scrap linoleum (usually you can get a piece of 6' x 9' for about $25 at a big box hardware store.) I think this is a better option than poly tarps.
GROOMING
Dematting Combs or Rakes! A MUST HAVE for every doodle owner! This is actually my #1 recommended tool for all Doodle owners!! I personally like a rake best for their body, followed up with a Chris Christiansen brush, then a greyhound comb to get to the skin.
MATS – The most common mistake made when grooming a Doodle or Poodle is to brush over the top but not get in underneath and close to the skin. It can be quite shocking to discover that although your dog looks beautiful ‘on top’ underneath there is a whole nest of matting you haven’t even noticed or you think isn’t that bad until your groomer says… "Sorry, we had no choice but to shave them to the skin because they had mats". Yep, so goodbye cute Teddy Bear look for at least the next 2 months. Groomer already spend a good 2-4 hours on a regular groom and they will refuse to comb out mats by hand…. believe me they don’t get paid enough because this is a huge job even when the mats are not that bad. Give your groomer a break and help them out. You HAVE to keep on top of it yourself by using a dematting comb or rake. You can comb out their ears, tails, hips, bodies and feet etc…once a week and save them from being shaved with this SIMPLE and EASY TOOL!
If you want to save your Doodles cute Teddy Bear coat… buy a dematting comb or rake and use it regularly!!
MATS – The most common mistake made when grooming a Doodle or Poodle is to brush over the top but not get in underneath and close to the skin. It can be quite shocking to discover that although your dog looks beautiful ‘on top’ underneath there is a whole nest of matting you haven’t even noticed or you think isn’t that bad until your groomer says… "Sorry, we had no choice but to shave them to the skin because they had mats". Yep, so goodbye cute Teddy Bear look for at least the next 2 months. Groomer already spend a good 2-4 hours on a regular groom and they will refuse to comb out mats by hand…. believe me they don’t get paid enough because this is a huge job even when the mats are not that bad. Give your groomer a break and help them out. You HAVE to keep on top of it yourself by using a dematting comb or rake. You can comb out their ears, tails, hips, bodies and feet etc…once a week and save them from being shaved with this SIMPLE and EASY TOOL!
If you want to save your Doodles cute Teddy Bear coat… buy a dematting comb or rake and use it regularly!!
GROOMING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES
- Andis Pet 7-1/2-Inch Steel Grooming Comb (greyhound comb)
- Safari Pin & Bristle Large Brush for Dogs with Ergonomic Handle
- Dematting Comb – a must for all Doodle and Poodle owners
- Dematting Rake-my personal favorite
- Tropiclean D-Mat Tangle Remover Spray
- Cowboy Magic Detangler and Shine- no rinse formula, smells good too!
- Grooming Scissors (nice grooming scissors)
- Chris Christensen T-Brush 16mm Medium (Nice Pin Brush)
- Pet Nail Clipper – Open blade style (you have to clip nails at least once a month and be careful not to cut the quick)
- Coat Bath Wipes (for that quick once over after a walk)
- Kwik Stop Stypic Powder with Benzocaine (in case you snip the nail quick by accident to stop bleeding)
- Gold Medal Groomers Ear Powder (for drying out ears and gripping ear hair)
- Straight and Curved Hemostat (for pulling ear hair /splinters etc.)
- NuVet Ear Cleaner (ear preventive and treatment)
OTHER
PetFusion Portable Dog Water Bottle (New; Large Dispenser, 22 oz). Insulated 2 Wall Stainless Steel for Optimal Cool Water Temp, Leak Proof, eco friendly for traveling with your pup.
Door Mats - FOR YOUR WET DOODLE…Soggy Doggy Door Mats. We have our first one and I am amazed at how much mud they stop from coming in when my pack comes running in. Gorilla Grip Original Indoor Durable Chenille Doormat., comes in different sizes and colors. We have not tried this one but it sounds promising.
Dog approved cleaning supplies. We like Nu-Vet's spot cleaner. We also like Nature's Miracle to help erase any urine smells.
TIME AND LOVE - Did you know that studies have shown that stroking a puppy actually helps lower blood pressure? The time and love you give your pup will be returned many times over!
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