So, you’ve found a great puppy that is just right for you. However, you need to get ready for the pup’s arrival. That’s where you are going to need the list of essential Golden Retriever supplies that will help you to make sure your Golden feels himself at home from the very beginning.
Puppy food
Consult your local vet and get advice from the breeder on what food to buy and get enough of it. Otherwise be prepared to provide your pup with home-cooked food if you’ve decided to cook for your pup yourself.
Water and food bowl
Your pup needs separate bowls for food and water. When choosing them keep in mind that your little Golden will grow up into a big dog and he might roll them over.
Gates
You might want to restrict your puppy’s access to certain areas of your home. So you should consider investing in one or more baby gates, the ones placed in doorway will do.
Crate or cage
Yes, I know you may think it’s cruel to hold a dog in a crate or cage. But in reality it’s not. Before dogs were domesticated they used to live in caves. So a crate will give your pup a sense of protection and you’ll see your Golden coming back to the crate over and over as he ages. Besides, you’ll find it very useful for toilet training.
Collar and leash
You’ll have to buy several collars and leashes as your pup grows. When you choose the collar for your pup it does not really matter how strong it will be. The main thing here is to make sure the collar is light. When your Golden grows you’ll need to buy a new one for him anyways. And don’t forget to attach an identification tag to your friend’s collar.
Choosing a leash consider buying a couple of them. It is always wise to have a spare one. You don’t really want to buy a long leash – with shorter leash it’s always easier to bring your dog by your side when you need, a few feet should be enough. If you have a large yard buying a 30 feet leash with automatic reel is a good idea.
You may also want to attach reflective tags to both collar and leash. They are really helpful during night walk – drivers can see you and your dog easily. You’ll also notice that many collars and leashes are made of chains. I would advise you against them, especially if your dog is still a puppy – puppies tend to chew and may damage their teeth.
X-pen
Exercise pen is a good way to create a playing area for your pup. But don’t think that he won’t get anywhere if you put him in it. He might move it or crawl out or under it.
Bath products and shampoo
You must never use shampoo designed for people to bathe your dog. It may result in excessive drying of skin and coat and even allergies. Shampoo designed for dogs is much more appropriate. Also consider using cream rinse after shampooing to avoid static electricity problem.
Grooming tools
Of course you may buy them later, but it’s always good to have all the necessary things beforehand to avoid hustle before the first grooming session. You’ll need:
- Canine dental products
- Shedding blade
- Pin brush
- Slicker brush
- Flea comb and tick remover if fleas and ticks are problem in your region
- Nail trimmer or grinder
These are the essentials that will be enough for now.
Toys
Not only Golden Retriever puppies love to play but the adults too. One of the Golden’s most favorite toys is a ball. But you should be careful and choose the ball large enough not to be swallowed or get into your Golden’s windpipe during the game. A size of a tennis ball is about optimal for Golden Retrievers.
Chewing toys is another thing you need to buy unless you want your Golden to chew some of your stuff. Choose quality toys, they will not only fit your dog better but also eventually save you money. And of course you’ll need to buy new chewies from time to time, when the old ones develop cracks and sharp points.