You can do this! Get Excited! The lesson of a dog is to teach us all how to live in the present and enjoy everyday! Lets start with DAY ONE! “
Becoming a New Dog Parent:
Okay listen , Welcoming a new dog into your life is an exciting adventure filled with love, joy and a bit of learning. Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or adding another furry friend to your family, At NBN Behaviors we focus on teaching humans to always set their dogs up for success. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the essentials, from must-have supplies to tips that will make your transition smooth and enjoyable.
Plus, I’ll share some of my favorite products that I use for my own dog—purchases through these links will directly help support my journey to becoming a full-time dog trainer!
1. Essential Supplies: What You’ll Need Before Bringing Your Dog Home
Before your new furry friend steps paw into your home, you’ll want to have a few essential items ready to make them feel comfortable and secure. Here’s a checklist of the basics:
- Crate: A safe space for your dog to relax, sleep, and feel secure. Make sure it’s large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Don’t overthink it, something simple will work great! Also, Figuring out what size dog crate to get your dog can be confusing here is a quick cheat sheet to help!!
| Crate Size | Dog Weight Range | Breed Suggestion |
| 24-inch | Up to 25 lbs | Chihuahua, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier |
| 30-inch | 26-40 lbs | Dachshund, French Bulldog, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel |
| 36-inch | 41-70 lbs | Beagle, Border Collie, Cocker Spaniel |
| 42-inch | 71-90 lbs | Labrador Retriever, Boxer, Golden Retriever |
| 48-inch | 91-110 lbs | German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Great Dane |
- Leash and Collar: Opt for a sturdy leash and a comfortable collar with an ID tag. Harnesses are also a great option for walking, especially for dogs prone to pulling.
- Dog Bed: A cozy spot for your dog to rest is a must (Even if you think they will sleep in bed with you). Choose a bed that’s easy to clean and suited to your dog’s size.
- Food and Water Bowls: Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are durable and easy to clean. My two suggestions are Elevated feeders or Slow feeders both are fantastic choices for dogs who eat too quickly—they help prevent bloating and improve digestion. Here is my personal suggestion that incorporates both aspects seamlessly. https://amzn.to/3X9JzF1
- High-Quality Dog Food: Nutrition is vital, especially in the early stages. I highly recommend Farmer’s Dog Food for anyone who can afford it. It’s fresh, human-grade food tailored to your dog’s specific needs. We put my 14 year old Pitbull Nora on it a few years ago and it was the best decision we could have made. She got so healthy, her energy came back and she started acting like a puppy again.
- !Toys and Chews: Keep your dog mentally stimulated with a variety of toys. Kongs are a personal favorite; they’re durable and great for stuffing with treats. Chews help with teething and satisfy your dog’s instinct to chew.
- Grooming Supplies: Regular grooming keeps your dog healthy and happy. A good brush, nail drills or clippers and dog-friendly shampoo are essentials. My dog personally loves the Nail grinder there are easy ways to train your dog to be good at these pamper sessions. Check out “Nail Grinders” to learn how to desensitize your dog
- Cleaning Supplies: Accidents happen, especially with puppies. Stock up on enzymatic cleaners to handle any messes.
Pro Tip: I use a Chewy subscription for all my dog’s needs. It’s convenient, and I never have to worry about running out of food or supplies. If you decide to give it a try through my link, I’ll earn a small commission—thank you for supporting my dream!
Here are my suggestions for the Essential supplies to get your dog before they come home. Each of these suggestions are things I currently use or plan on using when my current ones inevitably give up the ghost: Click the Button to be taken to each suggestion, again if you purchase by using my links I will receive a small commission which will help me keep making dog blogs and training dogs full time. Thank You!!!
2. Bringing Your Dog Home: First-Day Tips
The first day home is a big deal for your new dog. Here’s how to make it go as smoothly as possible:
- Create a Calm Environment: Keep things low-key on the first day. Your dog needs time to adjust to their new surroundings. Show them their crate and let them explore at their own pace.
- Establish a Routine: Dogs thrive on routine. Set a schedule for feeding, potty breaks, walks, and playtime right away. This will help your dog understand what to expect and feel more secure.
- Introduce the Crate: If you’re crate training, start from day one. Make the crate inviting by placing a comfy bed inside and a few toys. Never use the crate as a punishment—make it a positive space.
- Keep the new toys at a minimum: Remember everything is new to your dog. You will have time to play with all of the cool new toys you got them. But for now, I advise to give them a couple toys, let them choose “A Favorite” then put the rest away for a while.
The first few days are all about smiling and relaxing!!! But Remember the first few days also are GREAT opportunities to establish your standards and boundaries. TRY NOT to let your little furballs smile control the house.
3. Training Basics: Setting Up for Success
Training is a crucial part of dog ownership, and it’s never too early to start. Here are a few key areas to focus on:
- Potty Training: Take your dog out frequently, especially after meals, playtime, and naps. Reward them with praise and treats when they go outside.
- TIP: If you have a puppy, don’t give them all day access to water. By controlling when you give your dog water it will help with potty training. If you want to do potty breaks then give your dog access to water 20 minutes before you want to take them out. Once they start to understand “potty” cues you can gradually allow access to water more frequently!
- Basic Commands: Start with simple commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” Use positive reinforcement—praise, treats, and play—to encourage good behavior.
- CONSISTENCY CONSISTENCY CONSISTENCY!! Do 3-5 training sessions a day 5-10 minutes each!
- Socialization: Introduce your dog to new people, animals, and environments gradually. Socialization helps prevent behavioral issues and builds your dog’s confidence: KEYWORD: GRADUALLY
- Enrichment Activities: Keep your dog’s mind sharp with enrichment activities. I use Kongs, puzzle toys, and snuffle mats to keep my dog engaged and happy. Slow feeders are also a fantastic way to add enrichment during mealtime.
4. Health and Wellness: Keeping Your Dog in Tip-Top Shape
Regular vet visits, a balanced diet, and proper exercise are key to keeping your dog healthy. Here’s how to stay on top of it:
- Vet Visits: Schedule a vet appointment within the first week of bringing your dog home. This is a great time to discuss vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and any health concerns.
- Diet: As I mentioned earlier, I can’t recommend Farmer’s Dog Food enough. It’s fresh, nutritious, and has made a world of difference for my dog. You can get started with a personalized plan by clicking here.
- Exercise: Regular walks, playtime, and mental stimulation are vital. Find what works best for you and your new best friend! incorporate them into your life! If you dont like walking but you like to go read a book at the park then DO THAT! Every dog’s needs are different, so tailor your exercise routine to your dog’s age, breed, and health.
- Grooming: Regular brushing, nail trimming, and ear cleaning are essential for your dog’s overall health. Make grooming a positive experience by starting early and using treats and praise. TIP: brush your dogs teeth from a young age, it will save you so much money and prolog your dogs life!
You’re going to do great! Keep educating yourself and remember to have fun. NBN Behaviors will always be here to give advice and support
5. Building a Bond: Making the Most of Your Time Together
Building a strong bond with your dog is one of the most rewarding parts of being a dog parent. Spend quality time together, whether it’s through training, play, or simply cuddling on the couch. The love and trust you build will last a lifetime. Remember they are living life for the first time too, the faster you learn to communicate the more fulfilled both of your lives will be.
Final Thoughts: Becoming a new dog parent is a journey filled with love, learning, and a few surprises along the way. With the right preparation and mindset, you’ll be well on your way to giving your dog the best life possible. And if you find any of the products I mentioned helpful, I’d greatly appreciate it if you used my affiliate links. Your support helps me continue my passion for dog training and sharing valuable insights with fellow dog parents.
Happy dog parenting NBN Family! 🐾