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CRATE (kennel or cage): Buy the size
that will fit your dog
when full
grown. There are collapsible wire types or the enclosed molded plastic.
Both
types will work. Your puppy needs enough room to stand up, turn around
and
lie down. If you have a large breed puppy, block off the extra space so
your
house training goes more quickly.
PUPPY GATE: Very useful for confining a not yet house
trained
puppy to one room. These are the same as baby gates for human children.
COLLAR: Nylon or leather buckle collar. There are
adjustable ones that grow with your puppy and will last longer. Expect
to buy more
than one during your dogs growth stage. Puppies do not need any type of
training collar (choke chain) or pinch collar. Head collars like the
Gentle
Leader also work well, you will probably need to buy more than one just
like the regular collars. Head collars when used correctly give you
humane
and effective control over your dog.
LEASH: Six foot leather, they last several lifetimes.
(Keep this
away
from pup's teeth since it will seem like a great chew toy.) Chain is
not
recommended. A 10 foot training line is also recommend for in and out
of
the house. If your puppy wants to chew leashes and collars, spray them
with
something like Bitter Apple.
FOOD/WATER DISHES: Buy one for water and one for food.
Stainless steel
is the best and lasts the longest. There is less likelihood of your pet
having
any reactions to these bowls and they are really easy to keep clean.
Plastic
dishes can give your puppy "pimples" on their chin. This is a reaction
to
the plastic and if your dog is "breaking out" be sure to change to
stainless
or crock bowls.
FOOD: Obtain a small amount from your breeder to start. If
you
are changing brands, you will have some to mix in with your new formula
and
this should help you avoid an upset puppy stomach. You will want to
feed
a premium or super premium food. More on
Nutrition.
FOOD TREATS: Avoid all highly colored treats. The dyes can
cause
hyperactivity
and skin problems in susceptible dogs. There are many natural treats
available
on the market. Remember to read the labels to be certain you are
feeding
a high quality treat.
TOYS: You want to get chew toys you can stuff with
goodies;
kibble, treats. The best on the market are the KONG toys they come in
many shapes and different sizes. Red colored are for normal chewers and
Black are for dogs who are extra hard chewers. Nylabones are great for
chewing. Some dogs do well with the sterilized bones available at your
local pet supply retailer. These are all safe toys. Rawhide bones are
good but owners should make sure there are no knots for dog to chew off
and swallow. If you really want to use rawhide, avoid bleached bones
and select the pressed rawhide style to reduce the risk of choking.
Always supervise when chewing rawhides.
BRUSH/COMB: Suitable for your dog's coat. Ask your breeder
or a
dog groomer about the correct type. Also select a toenail clipper to
keep pup's nails nice and manicured.
TRAINING: Check into types of training
classes available and when they start.
BOOKS: There are many excellent dog training books
available. Check web sites like Dogwise
and SitStay for a good variety.
Your local library is another excellent source for reading materials.
TIME: Time and patience are important when you are
welcoming a
puppy into your home. Remember, pup doesn't know what you expect from
him in the beginning, and he is learning a new language.
Should
you wish to contact us
immediately
(612)
558-1369 · E-Mail
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