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Getting a puppy or older dog into your life and home will bring joy (and a bit of work…). Check out 6 Essential Dog Supplies you’ll need to bring home a new dog.

Copatchy No Pull Reflective Adjustable Dog Harness with Handle | See Amazon.com

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6 Supplies You Need to Bring Home a New Dog

1. A Well-Fitting Collar and ID Tag

dog collar with id tag hanger for small puppy

BAAPET Comfortable Dog Collar with Double Security Dual D-Ring and ID Tag Hanger for Small Puppy, Medium and Large Dogs | See Amazon.com

A collar and an ID tag are important safety precautions for your new pup. Your collar will hold your dog’s ID tag with your name, address, and phone number, in case your dog ever gets lost.

It will also hold their rabies vaccination tags, which are required by law in many places.

Reflective AirTag Dog Collar with Holder Case for Medium and Large Dogs | See Amazon.com

Make sure that the collar you buy fits your dog properly. It should be tight enough to not fall off, but loose enough that you can fit two fingers underneath.

2. A Crate or Kennel

iCrate, Single Door & Double Door Dog Crates | See Amazon.com

While not required, crate training is a great way to help provide your new dog with structure in their new home, and it can act as a safe space while they adjust to their surroundings.

Ruff ‘n Ruffus Portable Foldable Pet Playpen Available in 3 Sizes | See Amazon.com

Crates are also helpful for transportation in the car, as well as keeping your pup safe and contained when you leave the house.

3. Nutritional Food

Purina Pro Plan Puppy Lamb & Rice Dry Dog Food | See Amazon.com

While the breeder or shelter where you adopted your dog will most likely send you home with the same food they’ve been eating, it’s a great idea to look into dog nutrition.

Take some time to find the food that matches your dog’s needs.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Puppy Dry Dog Food | See Amazon.com

Talk with your vet before making any switches in your dog’s diet, and always look for nutritious, high-quality foods with healthy ingredients.

4. Training and Chew Treats

Nylabone Puppy Chew Ring Bone Chicken Medium/Wolf | See Amazon.com

There are many great treats available for dogs, but the two key types you’ll need are small, bite-sized training treats and some kind of tough treat for your dog to chew on.

Nylabone Puppy Chew Toy | See Amazon.com

Treats are a great way to reinforce good behaviors, as well as train new tricks. Chew sticks and other tough chew treats are also the perfect way to engage your pup’s brain and help them relieve stress.

5. A Variety of Toys and Enrichment Activities

SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Heartbeat Stuffed Toy – Pet Anxiety Relief and Calming Aid | See Amazon.com

Playtime isn’t just about fun for your dog—it’s an important source of exercise and enrichment to keep them feeling happy and healthy.

There are so many different types of toys, from ropes to balls to puzzle toys. It’s important to find what your dog likes and is motivated by the most.

Snuffle Mat for Dogs Interactive Puzzle for Stress Relief | See Amazon.com

Puzzle toys, puzzle feeders, and other enrichment toys are great for building your dog’s confidence. It teaches them problem-solving and gives them an energy outlet on days when they can’t get outside.

6. A Leash and Harness

It’s frustrating when you’re trying to go for a walk with your dog and the lead gets wrapped around their legs. A rope lead is lightweight enough to avoid this problem.

Rope leashes make training easier. A good rope leash can help encourage positive leash training, as it can be difficult for the pup to release or break free. See my buying tips & Amazon best-sellers