Your New Dog Checklist

What You Need:

• Crate: Buy a crate (that is the right size) for use in potty training and providing down time. Dogs are den animals, so their crate will be comforting. Put a blanket inside to increase comfort.
• ID Tag: This is a very important thing you can do for your dog.
• Martingale Collar or Easy Walk Harness: Your dog will need to go on many walks, so buy a collar he can’t slip out of. Try a Premier Easy Walk harness if you have a difficult adolescent dog.
• 6-foot leash
• Food and water Dishes
• Dog beds: If you are not letting your dogs on the furniture, provide some comfortable beds in the main rooms of the house so they can relax with your family.
• High-Quality Food: Look for healthy ingredients in a high quality food. See your veterinarian for special food requirements for your breed of dog.
• Treats: When you start training, you’ll need treats.
• Poop bags: Use these on every walk.

What to Do

Set Consistent Rules: Decide as a family what the rules are and enforce them from the beginning. Sending a consistent message to your dog is an important part of training.
Establish a Routine: Dogs respond well to routines, try to keep meal, walk and play times as consistent as possible.
Be Positive: Positive-reinforcement training is the best way to train. Be patient and positive.
Socialize: If you have a puppy, socialize them with other puppies, people, bicycles, this will help them throughout life.
Post Emergency Numbers: Post the numbers for your veterinarian and nearest emergency practice on your refrigerator with directions, if necessary.