Having your new puppy come home is always an exciting but stressful time. There’s so much to think about that it can seem overwhelming, but fear not – just remember, you’ve got a gorgeous little pup to look after once you’ve got everything ready!
So, the basics you’ll need to consider are food bowls, treats, a transporter (and crate, if you’re going to use one), training pads, teething aids, name tag, collar and a lead, dog shampoo and grooming supplies.
Beyond the basics, one of the most important purchases you can make is your puppy’s bed! You wouldn’t want to sleep on an uncomfortable, unsuitable bed, so why would you allow your puppy too? This is an important investment and one that will really support the comfort of your new furry pal.
Why is the bed so important?
Your puppy will likely feel a little scared and out of his depth when he arrives at your house. Don’t forget, he’s just been separated from his mother, father and siblings, so he’ll be a little upset. You, as his owner, should do all you possibly can to make your new addition feel as safe and comfortable as possible.
One of the ways you can do this is to find him a bed all of his own; one that is snuggly, comforting and warm. He needs to feel secure in it and calm. Achieving this may be made easier with a dog bed that has high sides – not so high that he can’t look over it, but high enough that he feels protected from outside threats. If you throw in a few soft toys in with him, he’ll feel even better and also have something to chew on during the night!
What should I be looking for?
Ultra Supreme Nesting Style Pet Bed (click to see on amazon)
As mentioned before, puppy dog beds ideally will have raised sides and soft padding, to help him feel comforted during the period of adjustment.
It’s also worth considering investing in a waterproof bed to begin with, especially if he isn’t house-trained. Or try using puppy pads until he’s house trained. Puppy pads ensure that any accidents (and there will be some, trust us!) can be cleaned up in a jiffy. They won’t stain the bed, nor will your pooch have to sit with a wet bed while it dries.
You’ll also want to think about how easily-chewed the material will be. Puppies chew – it’s a fact of life – but a bit of thought means you can mitigate the worst happening. Of course, if it’s a choice between him chewing his bed and your prized antique chair, you’d probably rather he chowed down on his bed!
Try to opt for one that has a fluffy covering, too. While this may prove too hot for them once they are older, especially in the summer months, for now it should prove the warm feeling pup needs to settle in well.
JOSEPH SMITH
Joseph Smith has a degree in Zoology, as well as having owned and taken care of many animals and pets in his career. To find out more about buying dog beds visit Muddy Paws.
4 Comments
Really enjoyed reading your article. I feel that you have given good advice for anyone wanting a new puppy.
My housemate just bought a puppy two weeks ago. We were so exciting and feel the responsibility to take care of it at the same time. But we are lucky that the puppy didn’t feel insecure. By the way, your advice is very useful for us on to how to care for a puppy.
This post is extremely helpful.
We adopted a Kelpie pup from a dog refuge a few months ago and I wished I had read this blog then!
Our Kelpie’s name is Koda and we have been extremely lucky in the fact that she doesn’t chew or bark all the time and was very easily toilet trained. However, our little girl LOVES our bed and we are constantly removing her from it during the night.
Is there anything you could suggest that may help with this?
Thanks
Jess
If your dog stays indoors during the day when you are gone, you should invest in a Couch Defender. These products are the safe, humane, affordable and effective way to keep your dog off of your furniture. You can see them at couchdefender.com.