ITEMS YOU SHOULD CONSIDER ACQUIRING PRIOR TO BRINGING YOUR NEW PUPPY HOME
Premium pet food to get your new puppy off to a good start. I feed Diamond Naturals Small Breed Puppy Food. It is in a blue & tan colored bag. I will enclose a sample bag in the packet you receive with your puppy. If you change foods, you should do it gradually after your puppy is adjusted to his new home. Use ¼ new food to ¾ old food to start with & gradually switch over to what ever food you prefer. The Diamond website is www.diamondpetfood.com & has a dealer locator tab.
Food & water bowls - I prefer the stainless steel, non-tip variety. Easily cleaned up by placing in the dishwasher & less likely to harbor germs/bacteria.
A placemat to protect your floors if not feeding inside the crate
A collar and a leash - I prefer the 6 foot length leash that's 1/2 - 3/4 inches wide. (Please consider using a "breakaway" collar with plastic clips that will unsnap in case your puppy gets hung up on something). A small collar will be included in your puppy packet when I deliver your puppy. Your pup has not had on a collar here & that will be a new experience for them.
A crate or training kennel - I recommend a wire crate (about 24"x17"x20"). These fold down wire crates are available at Wal-Mart for approximately $45. Your puppy is accustomed to & has been staying in a wire crate here. Make sure you block off just a small portion for a puppy. The wire crates at Wal-Mart & most pet supply stores will have a divider so that you can make the crate size adjustable. When crate training your puppy, you want the area just big enough for them to stand up, turn around and lay down. These crates are wonderful to create your pup's "home at home". It will provide him/her with their own space for quiet time, napping, etc.
Bedding - sherpa or fleece bedding is good. You will want a couple in case of soiling.
A travel crate - If shipped your puppy will arrive in a small travel crate. These are wonderful for short trips to the vet, etc.
Toys - plenty of chew toys - Nylabone is a good high quality toy that helps relieve teething. Also Kong makes a wonderful toy that you fill w/ treats. Great for keeping your puppy entertained & out of trouble. I will send a couple of toys/blankies that have been played with here home with each puppy.
Treats - I love the Mother Hubbard brand available at Petsmart. My dogs love the P'Nutter & chicken flavors. Also, yogurt treats are much favored here.
Stain remover for accidents - Nature’s Miracle is a good brand.
Flea, tick and parasite controls. Consult your vet on this. Some products are not as safe for young pups. I recommend most Adams products, but they are not advisable for pups under 12 weeks of age.
Grooming supplies:
pin brush
steel toothed comb
nail clippers
shampoo (natural oatmeal or a puppy shampoo) & conditioner
doggie dental supplies (toothbrush & paste)
