Leashes and Collars and TOYS.......OH MY!!!!

Lets talk about supplies for your furry friend.......

Leashes

• 6ft or 4ft leashes...... a 6ft leash is usually best for a standard walking routine, a 4ft leash works best for short outings and trips to the vet.
•  Leather or nylon... I personally like the nylon.
• Many designs to choose from...I've always been partial to the multi colored pawprints.
• Make sure to get one that is appropriate for the size of your furry friend. A heavy leash might not be the best choice for a tiny Chihuahua.

Collars

• Leather
• Nylon
• Plain or designs
• Choke collars.... should be used for training only and never left on.
• Getting the right size collar for your furry friend is very important. Measure to be sure.

Harnesses

• Useful because they take the stress off the neck
• Many dog breeds do better with a harness, dachshunds for example
• Make sure to get one that fits well, snug but not too tight.
• They do not slip off like collars can.

Beds

• Come in many shapes and sizes.
• Come in many different deigns and colors
• Make sure to keep your dogs bed close to where you sit and spend time. Dogs genuinely enjoy being close to you.

Dishes

• Get size appropriate dishes
• Get separate dishes for food and water
• Come in ceramic, plastic, stainless steel with many types of colors and designs. I recommend stainless steel because they are easy to clean and some dogs may be allergic to plastic or ceramic.
• Consider getting raised dishes if you have a larger dog, it will be less strain on their neck.

Grooming Supplies

• Nail Trimmers...ask a Veterinary Technician or a groomer to show you how to trim your dogs nails if you are unsure
• Shampoo... you will have to bathe your dog on occasion. You will need a shampoo for dogs. Ask a groomer for recommendations.
• A coat conditioner.... If you have a dog with long hair or a curly, wiry coat you may need a conditioner to use.
• Brushes... There are many different types of brushes. What kind you will need will depend on your dog's coat. Breeders and groomers will be good to ask for recommendations.
• Teeth... toothbrushes, doggie toothpaste, sprays or wipes... all are good options to take care of your dogs teeth. Your Veterinarian can make some suggestions as to what would work best for you.
• Eye wipes.... Needed if you have a dog that gets teary eyes, especially white dogs.
• Ear cleaner, ear wipes.... It is a good idea to check your dogs ears regularly to make sure they are not infected.  Your Veterinarian will be happy to show you how to clean your dogs ears.

A Crate

• Crates are great to help with training especially house breaking.
• Make sure to get the right size for your dog. Your dog should have enough room to stand up and turn around.
• Put a nice mat or pillow down to make it comfy. Your dog will come to view it as a safe space.
• Keeps them safe when you go out
• Dogs should not be kept in them for extended time periods.

Cleaning and Clean up Supplies

• Wee wee pads.... will help with house breaking and can be used in crates in case of accidents.
• A pooper scooper will be needed if you have a yard to pick up
• Poop bags... or plastic bags... great for when out for walks.
• Cleaning wipes(like baby wipes) are great for wiping dirty paws.
• Pet odor eliminator... Dogs have accidents sometimes.. Invest in a good carpet cleaner. I have had good luck with Nature's Miracle cleaners. But there are many others to chose from.
• A good vacuum cleaner... If you have a dog that will shed a lot... Like a Labrador Retriever.

Identification

• Tags...   Rabies Tag, ID tag with your contact info, Dog license.
• Microchips, very small and injected under the skin between the shoulder blades by your Veterinarian. You can register your pets name and your contact info so that if your dog goes missing you can be contacted if they are found. the micro chip can be read by a scanner that Animal Hospitals and Animal Shelters have.

And the most important item needed....... TOYS.........

• DOGS LOVE TOYS!!
• Stuffed, squeaky, bone, kongs, ropes, balls, and many more.
• Not all dogs like the same toys
• Once you find their favorite toy make time to spend lots of time playing with them.
• My doxies love soft squeaky toys. they rip them open, pull out the stuffing and the squeaker and they are quite proud of themselves.

I hope this list helps. If you have any suggestions of needed supplies please leave me a comment.

Thanks for Reading

Teri

Next week.....Let's talk Fleas & Ticks.