The Basics, what to pick up before your pup comes home.
Leash and adjustable collar. Skip the retractable lead and go for a 2 metre durable lead, providing ample length for your pup in investigate the local smells and an adjustable collar gives your pup room to grow.
Dog Food and Fresh Water. Discuss any special nutritional needs for your breed or breed mix with your veterinarian or local pet shop and remember a constant supply of fresh water is a must.
Training Treats. Treats are key for training and keeping a walk moving along. Make the treat size small, a pea-sized is perfect, even for larger breeds. If you are worried about extra calories use your dog’s regular food as treats. By putting your dog’s dinner in a bag you can use it as a training opportunity.
Enrichment Toys and Food. What's the secret to a relaxed, well-behaved dog? Enrichment. It’s important for your dog to get daily mental stimulation and to awaken their senses. Toys like a Kong, snuffle mats, slow feeders and lick mats, are shown to reduce heart rate and help relax your pup whilst challenging their skills. Use them at dinner time too. Sniffing walks and exploration is essential too.
Crate and Baby Gates. Providing a safe space for your dog from the start will give your dog a sense of security and a safe place to rest and relax. Crates and baby gates keep your dog safe while you are out of the house and make toilet training easier. Baby Gates limit your dog's access to only a few areas of the house which means you know where they are and that they are safe.
Bed. If you have space, having more than one place for your dog to rest and relax during the day is a great way to build a sense of security. It lets your dog know where they can rest and provides choice in their daily life.
Dog registration and Dog ID Tag. In New Zealand every dog needs to be registered with the local council, it's a simple job that can be done online. This and an ID dog tag are the quickest way to find your pet if they take themselves for a walk. Include your dog’s name and your phone number on the tag.
Know the Rules. Dog owners need to comply with local regulations like keeping your dog on a leash in public spaces and picking up after them and ensuring they are not barking when you are away. Contact your local council for the rules for your area.
Dog-Proof Your Garden. Check that your property is secure, fix any gaps in your fence and keep gates closed. In the garden always have fresh water available and look out for these plants that are toxic to dogs.
Poo Bags. Biodegradable and eco-friendly options are encouraged. Remember to take more than one, just in case. It’s law to pick up after your dog in Auckland and you could be fined. *Etiquette: hold onto your dog's poo until you find a public bin or your own. Do not use your neighbours' bins!*
Go slow and try to make every 'first' your pup experiences a positive one. By spending time and paying attention in the early days you will set you and your pup up for a successful life together.
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