Buying equipment for new dog.

[PrickleHead]

We are hoping to get a rescue dog within the next couple of weeks - an older dog rather than a puppy - but currently have no equipment at all.

What do we need to buy? Both a general list, and any brand recommendations would be welcome!

We haven't chosen the exact dog yet, but will be looking at a large-ish type, I think - I know that some things are a bit size-dependent, but I'd like to be as prepared as possible, and haven't had a dog before, so might well forget essentials!

For example, do we need a crate? What are the advantages of a crate over a bed?

And how do you transport a dog safely in the car? With a harness or something?

Hello dogs can feel safe in the den of the crate, it gives them their own quiet space, my two love it. Nice big bed and a spare when one is in the wash, couple of dog blankets to put in the bed for extra warmth and one for the sofa. Make sure your Hoover is up to scratch for the extra dog hairs. A big kong and other toys and treats for when you go out. A blanket to go over the crate. Poo bags and plastic gloves. Dog shampoo and towels. Nail clippers. Water and food bowl. Absorbent and machine washable mat for the back door so your house doesn't get full of muddy paws. Collar and lead of course, coat aswell depending on breed. Washable non slip mats are handy for the food and water bowls. Balls to throw on the walk if the dog is so inclined. Paper towels and anti back floor wipes for quick clear ups as when settling in they are bound to have some stress accidents on the floor. If you have carpet try and keep them off it until they are in a routine of toilet ting. For the odd accident little green pet machine is good for washing small bits of carpet. Can't think of anything else best of luck with your lovely new dog. Oh and a dog walking coat with big pockets for poo bags, ball etc that you don't mind your dog jumping on you with muddy paws don't wear your best coat. Boots or shoes that can get muddy for your dog walking uniform as well. For your oldie you may want to get a toothbrush and toothpaste for the odd brush up and of course good food. Rescue centre will be able to advise you and have a browse in pets at home or suchlike.

Prickle mine are small so I chuck them in the back on a blanket, muddy paws again. Also don't rush out and buy expensive toys because your dog may totally ignore them wait and see what the dog likes before buying the toys and chews. Dogs are very different in personality and likes and dislikes so find out what your dog likes before wasting your money on anything would be my advice.

That's a really great response, thank you! Very comprehensive :)

Do you have any recommendations for online pet shopping?

Thanks bella - that's good advice. It's easy to get overexcited & buy every treat and toy going, but I suppose there may be no point! I just want him or her to feel happy & comfortable from the off! :)

I think Bella covered most of it. I would add to get more towels then you think you need (charity shops are great for these) My two are muck magnets and in this weather I seem to have a constant cycle of washing muddy dog towels at the moment.

If you are feeding dry food then get a Kong Wobbler and feed a few meals from there. Tires my golden out really well!

Have you got a good vet? Insurance?

I use Zooplus for all my doggy shopping. The have a savings plan and reward points.

Good luck and have fun with your new buddy!

Prickle I used to have a harness like this: Harness

for my big dog, until I changed cars. He now goes in the boot happily. The rescue centre can advise you on what is best for the dog you choose.

As for grooming stuff etc - I have some good brushes and you'll need to flea treat the dog - but all of that can come with time, don't need it straight away. Same goes for nail clippers - they're great if your dog is ok with you cutting its nails. If the dog is nervous, it's best not to try for a bit. Also, if you walk the dog on tarmac, you may never need to cut its nails.

I'd recommend going to a charity shop and stocking up on old towels, and old blankets. Good to have a few handy for bedding, drying after dog walks etc.

Re Crates - they are great if your dog is nervous, or naughty when you're out. It gives them a safe home that they can retreat to if they want some space. If you have room for one, I'd recommend getting one.

Re toys - I agree, don't buy expensive ones to begin with. My dog is happy with a plastic bottle, or a tennis ball stuffed into an old sock. It depends whether your dog is a chewer or not, or a chaser, a tugger... they all like different things. See what the dog is like first, maybe buy some really cheap bits like frisbee etc and take it from there.

As for online shopping - I know I shouldn't but I tend to go to Amazon for pretty much everything. But there are lots of independent online retailers out there too.

Well done you for getting an older rescue dog - all your dog really needs is your time, attention and love.

Enjoy.. and be prepared for your life to change forever! (in a good way!)

Do you have some good, easy dog walks in mind OP?

Might be good to prepare a few ideas of places to go where the dog can run offlead safely e.g. the beach, woodland, open fields - but maybe places where there are not too many other dogs or people to begin with, just until you get to know the dog.

And if you have friends with dogs, ask them to join you (once you've had a few walks by yourself), to introduce your dog to other dogs to see how he behaves with them.

Thank you to all of you for your replies :)

I will spend the week going around charity shops looking for towels and blankets then!

I've ordered a crate, and a normal, soft bed - I imagine we'll probably get at least another at some point, but I'll hold off until I know what the dog likes / how big it'll be, etc.

As for walks, we live right near to a canal, which will probably be a daily walk, but also near to the Clent Hills, etc., so that will be longer / off-lead. I will have to work out which other places nearby are dog-friendly (I'm in the West Midlands, so sadly no beaches, as lovely as that would be!)

Well done for taking on an adult rescue dog. Some brilliant and v comprehensive answers already. My two recommendations are a good vet - the rescue may well be able to recommend one - a good vet is worth their weight in gold and will become a trusted ally and friend.

Linked to this - pet insurance - including third party cover.

Once your dog has settled in, get yourselves off to basic dog training classes with your nearest APDT trainer, using kind, positive methods. Good basic training means your dog will be much nicer to be around, and it will be fun, and will strengthen the bond between you in a way that you wouldn't believe. Will probably involve a clicker and a bag of treats - they can do wonderful, magical things.

Also, do keep in touch with the rescue - many rescues have all sorts of nice events like regular walks, fun dog shows, barbeques, quizzes, etc - these social events are a fab way of meeting other dog owners, and helping to support the rescue's work at the same time.

And as others have said, you can never have too many towels! I find Ikea very good actually for nice,cheap fleeces and towels.

Ooh another vote here for Ikea - we buy the fleece blankets from there for the dogs - they're about £1.60, they dry almost the instant you get them out of the wash, and they're perfect!