So you are going to get a dog. You need to prepare for the day you’ll be bringing your new family member home by buying a few items to make sure your dog is looked after correctly. Whether it is a new puppy or an adult dog you are bringing home, there are a few necessary items you must have:

1. Food for your dog. If you are getting a puppy, make sure the food you have is appropriate for puppies. Talk to the pet store or veterinarian about the most appropriate food for your dog.
2. A leash for walking your dog. Once your dog is off your property, you should always have it on a leash.
3. A collar and ID tag. Your dog must always have its ID tag on its dog collar. The tag will contain information about your dog, such as its name, and how to contact the owner should your dog get lost.
4. Two dog bowls – one for water and one for food. Make sure you clean these regularly.
5. Kennel. Your dog needs warm shelter to keep out of the weather so unless you are going to have an ‘inside dog’, you need to provide your dog with a place to sleep at night, such as a dog kennel.
6. Bedding for your dog to sleep in. These come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and can be bought from the pet store or you can make up a comfortable place with old blankets and cushions for your dog to sleep on. A crate is useful for puppies to sleep in.
7. Dog toys! Dogs love to chew things and chase balls. Make sure you have a few on hand for your dog to play with. Ensure you get ones that are the right size for your dog. You don’t want ones that are too small and can be swallowed by your dog.
8. A brush and other grooming implements, especially if you have a long haired dog. Long haired dogs need extra care to keep their coats looking healthy and neat. You may need to purchase different types of combs, for untangling knots and getting at the dog’s undercoat. Make sure you know what type of grooming tools your need for your breed of dog.
9. Nail clippers to keep your dog’s nails neat. There are special dog nail clippers available.
10. Dog shampoo for when you give your dog a bath.

Once you have your basic items to care for your dog, you can safely bring it home and begin to enjoy your new family member.

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