How to Prepare For A New Dog

Understanding the Commitment

Before looking at breeds, it's important to ensure your lifestyle and your family are truly ready to provide a loving forever home. Our Experts break down what it takes to be a prepared dog owner.

Matching Your Pace of Life:

Consider the time, budget, and energy you can realistically dedicate to daily exercise, training, travel, and quality food and gear. Matching your daily rhythm to a dog's energy level—whether you're a weekend hiker or prefer quiet evenings—is crucial for a happy life together.

Getting the Whole Team on Board:

A smooth transition starts with ensuring everyone in the household is excited and ready to share in the responsibilities. Set ground rules together, decide on a routine and individual responsibilities, and consider any allergies or sensitivities.

Expert Tip | Your family must agree on which training words to use. Having consistency in commands will avoid confusing the dog, and it makes training easier for both of you.

Choosing the Right Companion:

Once you know what you're looking for, you can begin the exciting search for the right dog. Understanding a breed's specific needs and temperament is far more important than appearance.

Veterinary Care:

One of your first steps is to find a trusted local veterinarian. Schedule that first check-up right away to discuss a plan for vaccinations, deworming, flea and tick prevention, and the right time to spay or neuter.

Space in the Home:

Dogs need space for enrichment and exercise. Plan out where your dog can safely play and explore, whether it’s a designated area in your home, a fenced backyard, or a nearby park.

Home-Preparation

Prepare your home for your new dog by creating a secure and comfortable environment. Designate spots for sleeping, eating, and potty breaks, ideally on easy-to-clean surfaces. Use baby gates to restrict access, and puppy-proof your space by securing hazards like chemicals, sharp objects, small items, and toxic plants

Essential Supplies

Here are 10 essential items you should have on hand before picking up your puppy. Having these ready ahead of time will make the transition easier and smoother.

Food

Dog food varies by age, size, and sometimes breed. Ensure proper nourishment by asking your breeder or shelter about their current diet, then introduce new food gradually by mixing it in.

Expert Tip | Feeding time is a great time for training. 10 minutes of mental stimulation (like training) will tire out a puppy as much as 1 hour of physical exercise!

Collar

Your puppy will grow quickly, but remember to buy a collar that is small enough to fit them while they are young. You can get an ID tag to put on the collar, with the dog’s name and your phone number for safety.

From the Experts | Best Dog Training Collars of the Year

Leash

Walking your dog is one of the most fun and rewarding parts of pet ownership. The process of learning to go for walks begins early, so get a reliable leash to allow your puppy to adjust to the feeling of being walked.

Kennel

A crate (or a kennel) will be your dog’s den. Kennels are especially important when your dog is young, potty training, and adjusting to sleeping in his new home. They come in a variety of sizes, so do your research to ensure you get the right one.

Treats

Treats are necessary to use during training. Just like humans, dogs have different dietary needs and taste preferences, so you may want to try a couple of brands and flavors of treats to see which your dog likes the most.

Additionally, pairing a clicker with treats can make training faster and easier on both of you.

Toys & Chew Bones

Toys and chew bones will help keep your dog entertained. Retrievers and sporting breeds like fetch balls, ropes, and chew toys, while herding breeds might prefer more interactive puzzle toys and larger balls. Small and toy breeds require smaller squeaky toys and soft plush toys.

Beds

Like a kennel, having a dedicated bed can make your dog feel more comfortable in their new home. Beds come in many sizes; keep in mind your puppy's expected adult size when buying one.

Grooming Tools

A brush, shampoo, and nail trimmer are grooming essentials. Breeds that shed should be brushed every day, which will help with managing stray pet hair around the home.

Food & Water Bowls

Your dog needs somewhere to eat and drink. Choose a space near their kennel or bed as a reliable place to find food.

Cleaning Supplies

Puppies come with a lot of fun and a lot of messes. Stock up on carpet cleaners, stain removers, poop bags, and patience as your dog is potty training.

Welcoming a puppy is an adventure that requires patience, preparation, and a whole lot of love. Wherever you and your pet go, our Experts are ready with the gear and advice you need to make a lifetime of memories together.

For more information on dog supplies, stop into your local SCHEELS to speak to an Expert.