Congratulations on your new puppy or adopted dog. He will need a few things for his new life in your household.

Collar and Leash - Adjustable collars are best for growing puppies who change size rapidly. A 6-foot nylon or leather leash is the standard for obedience class. A retractable leash allows your pup room to explore but still maintains some control. Small dogs often prefer a harness.

ID tags - Engraved metal or plastic tags with your pup’s contact information can be mailed directly to your home. Instant tags or “shrinky-dink” tags can be written on directly. Some are reflective for extra visibility at night.

Crate or Kennel - For housebreaking, traveling, or training, these pet homes give your dog a feeling of security and a quiet retreat when he needs a nap. Foldable wire crates are best for inside the house, and divider panels let you make the space smaller to prevent your dog from soiling. Molded plastic kennels are required for airplane travel and are safest for riding in the car. Soft crates of tent material and built-in poles are nifty and convenient. A washable fleece crate mat makes your pup’s new home cozy and warm.

Stain and Odor Remover -The item most often forgotten until your puppy has an accident on the carpet. Eliminates odors and stains with enzymes, and insures your puppy won’t be drawn back to the same spot by the odor.

Nail Trimmer and Septic Powder - Start trimming your dog’s nails weekly when he’s young to get him used to it. Have septic powder on hand to stop any bleeding if you nip the blood vessel that runs through nail-- just dip the end of the nail into the bottle.

Brush and Comb - Good grooming tools last a lifetime. Many styles for different coat types.

Shampoo - Choose a gentle formula that won’t strip the coat’s natural oils.

Food and Water Bowls - Stainless steel or ceramic are best, with a stand or non-skid rubber to avoid sliding or getting kicked over. Never use plastic, which can off-gas toxins, harbor bacteria, and give your dog acne from scraping his chin against the bottom of the bowl. Elevated bowls help tall dogs digest their food better.

A Variety of Chews and Toys - Puppies have an urgent desire to chew, and it’s important to keep them interested and busy. A good variety will save your shoes and your sanity. Bring out a few at a time from the toy box to prevent boredom. We like ball toys, rope toys, and rubber toys for hard chewers, plush toys, squeak toys, and smoked beef bones. Go for lots of digestible chews such as bully sticks, ears and hooves. Compressed rawhide is safe, but beware ordinary thin cheap rawhide chews. Hunks can break off and get caught internally, and formaldehyde and other chemicals are often used in bleaching and tanning.

RAW BONES TO CHEW - the best chew and the best nutrition for any puppy! Dogs that start raw bones when they are young have the cleanest teeth, freshest breath, and are the happiest! If your dog has never had raw bones, give one under supervision to make sure he doesn’t try to swallow it whole. A loose stool the first time is common. Your dog will soon adapt, especially if you regulate the frequency.