Puppies need proper nutrition to grow into healthy adult dogs. To avoid upset tummies during what can already be a stressful time, be sure to have a supply of the same food your puppy has been raised on ready at home.
Here at The Doodle Den, we use recommendations from: The Dog's Naturally Magazine (DNM) Food Guide.
DNM Dog Food Guide
A lot of holistic dog owners use a raw food diet. If this is the route you choose, we support that. We also understand everyone's life circumstances and budgets are individual. Each new puppy owner and family needs to do their own research and make an informed choice for the health of their dog and what works best.
Puppy treats play a big role in training your new companion. Look for treats that are soft, minimal ingredients, chewable and grain free. Remember that while treats help build a bond and reinforce positive behaviors during training, they shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your pet’s overall diet.
Here's some treats we enjoy at The Doodle Den: Rawtoppers and Nutri-Bites Freeze Dried Beef Liver
Your puppy should have dedicated food and water bowls. While you may put out your puppy’s food bowl only at mealtimes, fresh water should always be available. If you find your puppy eats too fast, consider a slow-feeding bowl, designed to help your puppy eat at a more appropriate pace. We like to feed and water our dogs from stainless steel bowls to limit the ingestion of plastics or other toxins.
Collar, harness, leash and I.D. tag
Walking your new puppy is a great way to get active and helps your puppy socialize and learn leash-walking manners. You’ll need a secure and sturdy leash and collar before you get going. If your puppy pulls, ask a dog trainer or a store partner about alternative options that can help discourage the behavior. We also suggest positive reinforcement "Leash Training Videos" on Youtube! There's so many great trainers out there! Collars should include an identification tag that includes your puppy’s name and your contact information.
House training is a big part of new puppy parenthood, and it requires patience and dedication. Crate training allows your puppy to have a safe-feeling place of their own in your home while also helping to minimize accidents on the carpet and inappropriate chewing on unattended shoes and other items. Plan to crate your puppy whenever you cannot watch them, including when you’re out of the house at work and overnight while you’re sleeping. Learn more about crate training methods to help your puppy.
Crate Options:
Wire Crate
Plastic Crate
Soft-sided Crate
Puppies don’t usually come potty trained, so new pet parents should anticipate accidents. Look for an enzyme cleaner to help remove urine stains, and stick to pet-safe cleaners. We also use Young Living Thieves, Vinegar, Baking Soda, and Hydrogen Peroxide as other cleaners around the home. Be prepared for shedding and dog hair in your home however we're striving to breed our dogs in a way that greatly limits shedding and allergens.
Chom Chom Roller For Pet Hair
Extra Sticky Lint Roller
All dogs need mental stimulation, and toys are a great way to play and interact with your new puppy. Look for toys designed for puppies—they’re usually smaller and work better with their puppy teeth—and consider interactive treat toys and puzzle toys to keep your puppy engaged and busy. Dedicate time in your day for playing and building your bond.
Although your puppy may sleep in a crate at night, it’s important to buy your puppy a dog bed. Your puppy can rest on the bed during the day, and it can be another place they know is theirs and available to go to for breaks. When looking for the right dog bed, be sure to get one that can accommodate your puppy’s breed and size as they grow while also keeping in mind that some puppies may decide to chew their bed if left alone. A throw blanket or bed made of durable material may be best for teething puppies - along with supervision.
Shampoo and grooming tools
Even if you plan to take your puppy to grooming appointments, you should have basic grooming products at home. Dog Friendly Shampoo , a comb, a dematting tool, a slicker brush, nail clippers and styptic powder are essential tools to have on hand. When bathing your puppy at home, use a toxin free shampoo designed specifically for dogs.
