Essential Puppy Purchases

[SoupDragon]

So, I have around 3.5 weeks to prepare for Dill's arrival. Apart from finally having to tackle the stuff that is everywhere and in prime chewing position, what do I need to buy/do?

A bed
Collar
Lead
Chewy toys
Bowls

[spugs]

crate
puppy pads
simple solution (from pets at home) it gets rid of the smell
tags
vets appointment
grooming kit (depends on the dog but a pin brush and nail clippers are a good start)
food/treats

[MitchyInge]

some books? culture clash, perfect puppy and don't shoot the dog are all useful

[Hobnobfanatic]

A crate, a Kong and some vet bedding are must-haves. Buy at least three pieces of vet bed (or one huge piece, cut into three), so you have one for the wash, one for use, and one spare, such as for the car.

[SoupDragon]

A kong?

I'm hoping that I can use the BabyDan baby Den that's in my loft instead of a crate as the puppy will never be big enough to jump out of it, nor small enough to crawl through it, and I already have it!

Thanks.

[floaty]

We use a crate inside a pen which has been fantastic,the crate is a lovely safe place for him and he has his bed in it .We used a cardboard box at one end with a piece of vet bed in and a old cot blanket which i had given to the breeder before so that it smelled of mum. and the other end has newspaper and a water bowl at night.We cover it with a blanket at night to keep him cosy and keep the light out.The pen is great as just a safe place to put him in during the day or if you go out,larger than the crate but still safe from wires and other things that they can chew.

Also recommend a DAP diffuser,we got one off Ebay,vet bed as discussed,soft brush and old towels to wipe feet,would only buy a cheap collar and lead to start with as the grew quickly.also stock up on newspapers and kitchen roll!!Cuddly toys are good,as long as don't have bneady eyes,cockers tend to like soft toys I'm told and that is certainly true of Otto.Poop bags also needed once they can go out.

[exchangeandmart]

If you are worried about chewing issues, I couldn't recommend the kongs more; my boxers love them. Dodger in particular, he will lay for hours with his, lovingly kissing and licking it! What breed is Dill? Also be aware of cleaning products, make sure everything you use is animal friendly. If you are after one exchange and mart do have a pet section so you might be able to pick one up for a bargain (and indeed the other things you were after)

[SoupDragon]

Dill is a cocker spaniel.

There's an awful lot to chew in our house!! Hence the reason I'm finally getting to grips with the amount of stuff on the floor. I googled kongs and they do look brilliant - I've added it to my list

As for cleaning products... [snort] I am a slattern! I tend to use minimal products but I will put a child lock on the under-sink cupboard - I never needed them with the SmallDragons.

[JonBonJovi]

Toy rotation chart