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Cruisin' Canines

If you’re new to dog ownership or are considering taking it on, you probably already know that you’re going to have to invest not just a lot of time, but a lot of money as well to get both your home and your life prepared for owning a pet. Beyond the basics like food, a dog bed, and a leash for walks, there are a handful of other things you’ll want to have already on hand already when you bring your pooch home.

If you’re new to dog ownership or are considering taking it on, you probably already know that you’re going to have to invest not just a lot of time, but a lot of money as well to get both your home and your life prepared for owning a pet. Beyond the basics like food, a dog bed, and a leash for walks, there are a handful of other things you’ll want to have already on hand already when you bring your pooch home.

Durable Toys

Puppies (and many full-grown dogs, too) are enthusiastic chewers, so it’s important to have some chew-toys on hand that won’t fall apart immediately orand spew stuffing everywhere. One of the brands that dog owners trust for durability is KONG. KONG offers rubber chew toys as well as extra-strength toys that can stand up to a serious game of tug of war, or an overzealous set of chompers. Other brands of toys to consider include Tuffy’s, West Paw, and Goughnuts.

Grooming Products

For grooming needs, you’ll want to pick up a nail clipper, a brush, dog shampoo, and a toothbrush to start. If you’re bringing home a puppy, you’re in luck, as they are more easily convinced that they should let you clip their nails, groom their coat, and brush their teeth. Good brushes to consider include the Furminator, which is great for dogs that are prone to shedding a lot, as well as brushes from Conair and Top Paw.

Clippers from Top Paw are great, but if your pooch won’t let you touch their feet, many groomers offer nail trims for a small fee. As for shampoo, look for one that is sensitive to your dog’s coat—human shampoos are typically too harsh.

Toothbrushes can be purchased at a pet store as well—make sure not to use human toothpaste with your dog, though!

Miscellaneous Goods

Finally, you’ll need to collect some odds and ends. For example, you’ll want to buy some pick-up bags for your dog walks—no one likes a dog owner who that doesn’t clean up after their pet. You may also want to get a crate or a gate so that you can limit your dog’s access to certain rooms in your home, such as your child’s room (which is full of fun toys, but none that are dog-appropriate!) or the bathroom.

You may want to consider picking up a bottle of stain remover or bitter apple spray if your dog is a chewer (if you’re getting your pup at a shelter, the staff may be able to shed some light on this) to help keep your home in tip- top shape. Finally, consider flea and tick remedy, especially if you live in a wooded area.

A Vet, Groomer, and Dog Walker

This may be saved for after you get your dog home and situated a bit, but it’s good to research vet clinics, groomers, and dog walkers so that when a problem arises or you need someone to take over for a walk while you’re stuck at work or want to go on a weekend trip, you’ll be ready to go.

If you already own a dog, what’s something you’d tell a prospective owner to buy? What are your must-haves for dog ownership?

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Cruisin' Canines logo of a white dog with an orange background