Bringing home a new dog? Congrats! Welcoming a furry friend into your life is an exciting adventure, but in the midst of all the excitement, it’s easy to forget a few basics-especially if you’re a first-time pet owner. That’s why Zera is offering a handy checklist to help you fully prepare for your new addition.

There’s no doubt that there are many unknowns that come with bringing a new pet home, but having the basics in place ahead of time can make the adjustment smoother for both you and your pooch. The last thing you want is to be searching around for supplies in the middle of the night because your new pet is teething or needs a soothing toy.

That said, you don’t have to go overboard and buy everything in the pet section. Instead, you should focus on the essentials first. Once you understand your dog’s unique personality and preferences, you can add items that they really enjoy, such as specific toys, cozy beds, or snacks they can’t resist.

Here’s Zera’s recommended shopping list of items to have on hand before you bring your new pet home:

Collar.

Your dog may already come with a basic collar, but it’s not a bad idea to upgrade to a durable and reliable collar. A sturdy collar isn’t just for aesthetics; it’s a must-have for hanging dog tags and leashes.

Choose a collar that is both secure and comfortable. You can choose from simple styles, nighttime safety options such as reflective collars, fun patterns, or even customized collars with your dog’s name and your contact number for extra peace of mind.

Dog Carriers

While collars are easy to identify, many experts recommend using a chest harness when walking your dog. Chest harnesses provide better control of the dog, reduce the strain on the dog’s neck, and are less likely to slip off, making it a win-win for both the owner and the dog.

For dogs that pull easily, such as excitable puppies or energetic breeds, a harness with a front clip can be a game changer. It helps guide the dog’s direction of movement, stops pulling, and makes walks more enjoyable.

Leash.

A reliable leash is an essential tool for any dog owner. A standard leash is usually 6 feet long and offers the perfect balance between freedom and control. Some leashes even come with double handles – one at the end and the other near the clip – so you can keep your dog close by in crowded areas or high-traffic situations.

As you get to know your dog, you may want to consider adding a long leash for training or a retractable leash for added agility. Whichever style you choose, prioritize sturdy clips and comfortable handles in case the leash burns your hands when your dog suddenly bursts into life.

Dog Crates

A quality dog crate is a must-have for getting home and taking your pet to the vet. It also makes your new pet safer and more comfortable in the car. Some dog crates are even designed to work with seat belts for added safety.

When choosing a crate, make sure it measures a few inches taller and longer than your dog. This gives them plenty of room to stand, turn around and stretch out. Many dogs feel calmer in the enclosed space of a kennel, especially in stressful situations.

Car safety gear

If your dog doesn’t like a pet crate, or if you want him to have a better view of the road, a car seat belt is not a bad option. Letting your dog roam freely in the car is not only distracting, but also very dangerous. A seatbelt can ensure your dog’s safety and save his life in the event of an accident.

For small dogs, consider car seats designed for pets. These seats often come with a seat belt or tether, and provide a comfortable place for your dog to ride while keeping them safe. If you’re wondering about other ways to keep your pet healthy and active, consider trying medicineballtraining, which can be used for dog exercise training with proper supervision.

With these essentials from Zera, you can welcome your new dog home with confidence. By starting with the basics, you’ll be laying the foundation for a happy, healthy life together – and as your bond grows stronger, you can add more items that will have your dog wagging his tail in delight.

Dog Car Seats and Harnesses

For small dogs, a comfortable dog car seat will hold them in place while allowing them to enjoy the view out the window and a cozy nap on the go. For dogs of all sizes, safety-tested dog car seat belts are a good choice. While these seat belts restrict your dog’s movement to prevent them from jumping between seats, they still allow your pooch to comfortably sit, stand, lie down, and look out the window.

Dog Bowls

The best dog bowls are made of ceramic or stainless steel because they are durable and resistant to scratches, which tend to harbor bacteria. Choose a bowl that is large enough to hold your dog’s meal and choose one with a wide or heavy bottom to prevent tipping. Whether you opt for a sleek, chic set or something as simple as a revamped mixing bowl, it’s up to you!

Dog food and snacks

Finding the right dog food can be overwhelming, but choosing a veterinarian-recommended formula first is a great place to start. Look for dog food made with all meat and vegetables and avoid by-products or fillers. Make sure the formula matches your dog’s stage of development-puppy, senior, or all-breed formulas are all good choices, and Zera offers a variety of formulas crafted to meet your dog’s needs.

PRO TIP: If you’re adopting a dog, ask the shelter what they’ve previously fed and bring a small bag of treats for a gradual transition to the food of your choice.

When it comes to snacks, it’s a good idea to stock up on a variety of flavors to see what your dog likes best! Low-calorie training snacks are perfect for rewarding your dog’s good behavior, while long-lasting, chewy treats like cow sticks or cow ears will keep them entertained during quiet times. Don’t be in a rush to find the perfect snack right away, you can experiment with different proteins and flavors to find out what your dog’s favorites are.

Dog Beds

Every dog deserves their own cozy bed! Even if your dog prefers the couch or your bed, it’s important to have a dedicated space for him or her. Choose a bed that’s the right size and easy to clean, whether it’s machine-washable or has a removable bedspread.

You may also want to consider a crate or kennel for their bed. While crate training is optional, some dogs prefer the cozy, enclosed space that a kennel provides. Others prefer an open space – let your pooch choose what works best for them.

Dog Doors

A dog door is a handy and practical tool for controlling your pup’s access to specific areas of the house. Whether you’re blocking off stairwells or certain rooms, sturdy dog gates (or even baby gates) can help you manage your pup’s behavior as they enter your new home. Dog gates are especially useful for preventing mischief when you’re still learning about your dog’s behavior.

Dog Toys

Shopping for toys for your dog is one of the most enjoyable things you can do when welcoming a new furry friend! While it’s not necessary to have a box full of toys for the first day, having a handful of toys on hand will help you understand how your dog plays.

The following items will fulfill basic needs:

• A soft, stuffed toy for your dog to snuggle or play with
• An interactive toy, such as a ball, Frisbee or tug-of-war rope
• An enrichment toy, such as a sniffing mat, puzzle toy or classic Kong toy
• A durable chew toy for their gnawing needs

Choose a toy that matches your dog’s size for safety. Small dogs need smaller toys, while larger dogs need larger toys to avoid choking hazards. For chew toys, choose materials that are harmless to your dog, such as food-grade silicone or rubber, to keep them happy and healthy.

Dog Toys

At Zera, we believe in choosing dog toys made from durable materials such as silicone or natural rubber. Reject breakable plastic dog bones! Choose toys with the right hardness for your dog – softer chew toys for teething puppies and sturdy toys for active dogs. Dog toys that are durable and easy to clean are a must. With care, your dog will probably snuggle up to their favorite toy well into old age.

Grooming Supplies

Keeping your dog tidy not only keeps them comfortable, it also keeps you sane – no one wants to leave the house covered in dog hair! While professional grooming is always preferred, every dog owner should stock up on the following grooming essentials:

• Rubber brushes for short, smooth coats
• Combs for long or curly coats
• Stiff brushes for all types of hair
• Shampoo for dogs (customized to the pH of your dog’s skin – don’t use human shampoo!)
• Non-slip mat or towel for bathing
• Absorbent towel for drying fur
• Dog nail clippers (designed for rounded nails to avoid splitting)
• Hemostatic powder (to stop bleeding if nails are cut too short)
• Soft toothbrush (dog toothbrush or super soft human toothbrush)
• Dog toothpaste (human toothpaste contains harmful sweeteners, avoid!)

For a comprehensive home grooming guide, check out Zera’s tips and tricks to make the grooming process easy for you and your dog!

Cleaning Supplies

Let’s face it – dogs make a mess in the house all the time! Whether you’re cleaning up after a naughty puppy or an older dog, having the right cleaning supplies on hand is crucial. Be prepared for muddy paws, accidents and the occasional gastrointestinal upset with these essentials:

• Dog wipes for quick cleaning between baths
• Pet-safe multi-purpose cleaner for messy stains
• Pet deodorizer for deep cleaning carpets and upholstery
• Powerful paper towels for hard-to-clean messes
• Pee pads (great for training pets to poop and pee at home, when sick or incontinent)

Keep everything organized and ready to go by preparing a special cleaning kit. With the right tools, those “bad” moments won’t be so difficult to deal with.

Poop bags

Cleaning up your dog’s poop may not be glamorous, but it’s what responsible owners should do. Using sturdy, biodegradable poop bags can ease the cleanup. Whether you prefer a fancy scooper or a simple glove-style bag, a good stockpile of reliable bags will ensure that you’re always ready to clean up feces on a walk.

Senior Dog Supplies

Are you considering taking home a senior dog? Make sure you have some thoughtful accessories for them to enjoy their later years. Each senior dog has individual needs, so consult your veterinarian or shelter for specific recommendations. Here are some essentials that can make a big difference:

• Heating pads or heated dog beds to ease arthritis
• Stairs or ramps to facilitate climbing up furniture
• Car ramps to help large dogs get into the car
• Lift straps or harnesses for pets with mobility issues
• Dog diapers or harnesses for incontinence control

Whether you’re bringing home a puppy, adult or senior dog, Zera’s list has you covered. These essentials will help you and your furry friend settle in comfortably and enjoy many happy years together!

Congratulations on finding your new partner – welcome to a lifetime of love and happiness with Zera. Get ready for endless moments of happiness! To make sure your furry friend stays healthy and happy, check out our guide on how often to brush your dog’s teeth.