Our dog is moving in with us - what basic equipment is useful?

When a dog moves in, the four-legged friend should feel at home in the new home as quickly as possible. Affection, time to play and lots of cuddles facilitate the acclimation. In addition, however, the basic equipment for the fur nose should include a few more things. Dog crate, engraved dog collar, food bowls, treats - learn what you should have in the house for your new roommate.

Dog box

You will need a dog crate for picking up your dog, as well as for later trips to the vet, dog school or on vacation. This should be large enough so that your four-legged friend can easily stand, stretch out and turn around in it. Note: If your dog still has to "grow into" the crate, pad it with blankets and pillows. Puppies sometimes feel lost in boxes that are too big and tend to do their business in them.

Dog food and treats

A sufficiently large supply of high-quality dog food will save plenty of time during the acclimation phase, when you can fully concentrate on the new family member. The food should be tailored to the individual needs of your pelt nose - the breeder or the animal shelter usually know their stuff and can also provide information about allergies or intolerances of your favorite.
Chew bones, dog biscuits and other treats should also be on hand for your new roommate. They are used for relaxation and occupation, as well as a reward for education and training.

Feeding bowls

Before a dog moves in, you should purchase at least two food bowls for food and water, and possibly an additional one for the garden or patio. The height of the bowls should fit the size of the dog. When it comes to material, it's best to go for stainless steel or ceramic - plastic bowls slip quickly and are more susceptible to bacteria and germs.

Dog leash, engraved dog collar, engraved dog tag

For the first walks with the new family member, a dog leash and a collar should be available in the initial equipment. A engraved dog collar and a engraved dog tag can make it easier for you to find your pet if it should ever escape from you. In addition to your dog's name, an engraved dog tag or collar should contain your contact information including phone number.

If you want to rely on modern technology to find your runaway, you should get an Apple AirTag. This "electronic dog tag" requires registration in an app. If your dog escapes, you mark the Apple AirTag as lost and receive a notification every time your dog comes within Bluetooth range of any iPhone with cellular service - including the address. The electronic dog tag's battery lasts about a year.

Basket or dog bed

To help your dog recharge his batteries after an eventful first few days, a basket or dog bed should be provided. For an additional coziness factor provide pillows and a blanket. Make sure - similar to the dog crate - that the basket or bed fits the size of the dog. For puppies, you should reduce the possibility of retreat with pillows and blankets - otherwise your little ball of fur will feel lost and start to mark in the basket or dog bed.

Toys

A small selection of dog toys belongs in every initial equipment - further toys will be added in the course of time anyway. A ball, a stuffed animal and a rope should be sufficient in the beginning. Attention: Make sure that the toys of your four-legged friend have no resemblance to everyday objects - otherwise your darling will not stop at that either.

Brushes and combs

The initial dog equipment also includes a selection of brushes and combs for regular coat care. What you need depends largely on the type and length of your dog. Coarse-toothed combs are particularly suitable for long-haired dogs, while a grooming mitt is often sufficient for short-furred quadrupeds. As a rule, the breeder or the animal shelter can provide information on how often the fur of your favorite needs to be groomed.