What basic items do I need to bring home my new puppy?
Crate - this is not a cage, it is a haven. Crates only become cages when misused, or used excessively. A wire cage, covered with a sheet, can become a "cave" or "den" of sorts. This is where your puppy can go to get away from all the unfamiliar commotion of his new home. Many old time breeders insist that a puppy grows when he sleeps, so never wake a sleeping puppy. The crate keeps him safe when you are away, so he cannot chew wires and get into houseplants and garbage. Very often, after a short time you puppy will choose to go into his "house" all by himself so he can feel safe and peaceful.
Puppy food - this is generally what he was raised on, or if you want to switch, ask the breeder for a baggie of his food so you can mix it with what you buy.
Soft training treats - this simple item will cut your training time in half. Some dogs get so wise to the fact that potty outside means a treat, they will squat even if they don't have to go.
Collar and leash - get an adjustable buckle collar and leash for your puppy. An engraved name tag with your name and phone number is a plus. You may not want to leave the collar on in the house (many choose not to), but it's necessary it you take your dog out anywhere, even to the vet. (Vet staff does not like it when you come in with an unleashed animal)
Rawhide! - Get plenty of this, but make the type much larger than the dog can chew up in minutes. Remember, your puppy is teething until 6 months, if they chew something they are not supposed to, divert them with a rawhide. When a rawhide gets smaller than 2" x2", throw it away. They are cheap, and it's not worth it to have a choking dog. These chewies will save your sanity, your toes and your furniture.
Vitamins - Many that you find in the store leave something to be desired, but any puppy vitamin chewable is better than none.
Benadryl 25 mg. (Something my vet gives me to give with puppies)- The same kind of Benadryl that stops allergic reactions in humans will do so in your puppy. Puppies are curious creatures, and bee stings and insect bites are not at all uncommon. One 25 mg capsule coated with butter goes down great.(forget peanut butter for an allergic reaction. The throat may be swollen.) Just put it toward the back of the mouth, hold the muzzle closed gently and stroke the throat. As soon as you see a swallowing and licking, they swallowed it.
Squeaky toy and other toys
Soft bed for the crate if you wish
Plants Poisonous to Dogs
Below is a list taken from the ASPCA® Animal Poison Control Center's information on some common garden and household plants that can be poisonous to your pet. This may not represent a complete list of all poisonous plants. Also, your pet may have a sensitivity or allergy to a plant that is not on the list, resulting in toxicity. Always contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your pet may have ingested a poisonous plant. If you don't find the information you're seeking listed below, click here for our additional sources of information, many including specific effects and plant photos from the various veterinary/horticultural schools.
Special Notice: Several recent reports of dogs having kidney failure after ingesting large amount of grapes or raisins has the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center investigating to determine the causative agents or disease processes. Click here for information.
Common Landscape items can also cause harm to your dog. For example:
Cocoa Shell mulch. The smell is absolutely irresistible to a dog. Ingestion can cause serious distress if not death.
Many homeowners prefer to use Cedar Chips. While not irresistible to dogs, be aware that if you choose to use these and your dog actually does eat them, there could be a problem with these also. Cedar can be a double edged sword, as the scented oils in the shavings that repel fleas and ticks can affect the animal's metabolism and liver function if ingested, and possibly induce cancer or precancerous lesions, especially on the liver.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: List of Toxic Plants
Phone: 1-888-4ANI-HELP (1-888-426-4435)
Cost: $45.00 per case (Visa, MasterCard, Discover or American Express). The Center will do as many follow-up calls as necessary in critical cases, and at the owner's request will contact their veterinarian. The Center also provides via fax specific treatment protocols and current literature citations when indicated.
Phone: 1-900-443-0000
Cost: $45.00 per case charged to the owner's phone bill. The Center will do as many follow-up calls as necessary in critical cases, and at the owner's request will contact their veterinarian. These follow-up calls can be made by calling (888) 299-2973.
Pet Emergency First Aid Videos
Phone/Email: 1-888-380-9966, order@apogeevideo.com
Cost: First Aid for Dogs ($19.95), First Aid for Cats ($19.95), Combo: Dogs and Cats ($34.95)
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