Dog Supply

Dog Leash

Dog leashes are an important component in your dog supply and come in many different varieties, materials and widths. Leather, cotton, and nylon are the more popular materials. You’ll find flat four-to-six-foot leashes and flexible leashes that extend and retract. Leashes come in many different materials and widths. As a rule of thumb, the larger your dog, the wider your leash needs to be. A good six-foot flat leash is your best bet.

Dog Collar

Like leashes, collars come in many sizes and varieties. The size you need depends on the size of your dog. Measure the dog's neck and make sure that you can fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck because you don’t want the collar to be too tight. You can get more information about collars at Dog Collars.

Dog ID Tag

Examples of simple ID tags.

We all hope that our dogs never get away from us, but it happens. Dogs bolt through open doors, yank leashes out of our hands, jump fences, dig under fences and other crazy things. The best way to ensure that your will be returned is to attach a dog ID tag. You’ll have many types to choose from, including microchips, tattoos, dog ID collars, talking ID tags and ways of inscribing basic information into collar material. A dog ID tag is an important dog supply safety feature.

Basic dog ID information includes: phone number, city and state (useful when you travel) and email address. Including your dog's name or your name will depend upon how comfortable you are including this information. If your dog has any health conditions, you may want to include this as well.

Dog Toys

Playing with your dog strengthens the bond between you, and provides your dog with an outlet for his energy. The types of toys you purchase will depend on your lifestyle, your dog's age, size and energy level. Starter toys include kong, bone and plush types. Once you see what toys your dog prefers, you can add to your dog's toy collection. You can read about toys on our site at Dog Toys.

Dog Food

All dogs need to eat. Talk to the person who previously owned the dog and ask what food your dog has been eating. It’s OK to change the food, but do so slowly, by mixing the old with the new. As a rule of thumb, when it comes to dog food, you get what you pay for, so don't skimp. Find out more information about dog food at The Pet Food Report.

Heartworm and Flea/Tick Preventive Dog Supplies

You also need to get your dog started on heartworm and flea/tick preventatives right away. Heartworms are 100% preventable. Dogs who contract this disease suffer. Keep your dog safe from this disease by keeping him on heartworm preventatives. Fleas and ticks carry diseases that can be fatal to your dog. Flea and tick preventatives have come a long way. Dog owners now have many options to keep their dogs flea and tick free. Talk to your veterinarian about these issues during your dog's physical. Make sure your dog gets all required vaccines. These vary by state, but each state requires a rabies vaccine.

Dog Grooming Supplies

Grooming dog supplies will vary depending on your dog’s breed. All dogs need to have their toenails clipped, so you will need toenail clippers unless you plan on paying a groomer to take care of all your grooming needs. You will also need a brush, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush and ear cleaning supplies as part of your basic dog supply.

Dog Supplies for Cleaning

Be prepared for your new friend to have "accidents" those first few days while the two of you learn how to communicate with each other about potty time. Several formulas are available on the market specifically for pet urine. You can also use a half water/half white vinegar spray solution to deodorize the area.