We all know how exciting it is to get a new puppy. And isn’t it so tempting to spend a fortune on them before you’ve even got them?
Here’s a little help on what to avoid, and what to go for instead, helping you save money in the long run!
AVOID: Tiny water bowls or plastic bowls
It’s so common that owners will spot the CUTEST little puppy bowls and buy on impulse (because they are Very cute!), but they don’t think about…
Your puppy will grow out of this bowl in no time at all!
You will be constantly filling up that tiny water bowl, or worse, not notice it’s empty and have a thirsty little puppy!
Usually these bowls are plastic, which tends to harbour more bacteria.
Instead, go for a larger ceramic or stainless steel bowl which can be cleaned easily and maintain a cool temperature. Add a silicone mat underneath for a non slip surface.
AVOID: tiny toys!
It’s along the same lines as the water bowl situation. Tiny puppy toys are super cute, and typically are branded for puppies. However they are only good if you want to encourage your puppy to bite hands!
The number 1 rule for stopping puppy biting is to prevent it as much as possible. If you have big toys with enough room for your hands and your puppy’s mouth - perfect!
AVOID: Food offers
It’s really common in pet shops and online for them to give vouchers for a free bag of food. However changing a puppy’s diet too quickly, especially after only just moving to their new home, can upset their tummy. Plus, if you have a good breeder they are likely to be on a high quality diet, so switching to a lower quality one won’t be great either.
Ask your breeder what they feed, and do your research! If it’s a good food, stick with it. If not, find a better quality diet and switch over slowly - over the time of a week.
AVOID: puppy pads.
Puppy pads teach and encourage your dog to toilet in the home, even after you get rid of them! You should encourage your puppy to toilet outside, never indoors, and that includes on a puppy pad.
If you’ve already got some, don’t worry, they are fantastic for soaking up accidents!
AVOID: The cutest harnesses
You can get some absolutely adorable puppy harnesses, but in my experience they either don’t fit well, or they are uncomfortable and escapable.
Plus, remember that if you are spending a fortune on that cute harness, your puppy will grow out of
it in no time! They really are a waste of money at that age.
Go for a good quality, well fitting, but reasonably cheap y-shape harness until your dog is fully grown, then choose a cute one (it still should fit well though! I recommend Ruffwear and Perfect Fit).
AVOID: Expensive Beds
No matter how much you try, puppies do have accidents and puppies do teeth. That means there will likely be urine and / or teeth in that new expensive bed.
Save your money for the expensive bed when they have be toilet trained and trained not to chew!
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