So, you’re about to become a proud dog parent—congrats! Whether you’re welcoming a puppy, a rescue, or a mature, distinguished doggo into your home, there’s one thing we can all agree on: you’re going to need some kit. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with this essential guide to make sure you and your new bestie are prepped for success.
From walks in the park to training at home, these must-have items will keep your dog comfortable, safe, and stylish. Let’s dive into the essentials that every new dog needs!
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1. A High-Quality Lead (Because Walkies Are Life)
Walks are about to become a big part of your life, so a sturdy, reliable lead is an absolute must. Whether your dog’s a tiny terrier or a bouncing labrador, you’ll want something strong enough to withstand the excitement of outdoor adventures but lightweight enough for easy handling.
WAGD Pro Tip: The WAGD hands free Lead is not only super durable but also incredibly stylish—perfect for when you want to look good whilst giving your pup room to sniff. Our leads come in various lengths so you can choose the best fit for your walking style, whether it’s a city stroll or on-lead sniffaris.
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2. Training Treats (Because Every Good Dog Deserves a Reward)
If there’s one thing that makes training easier (and more fun!), it’s snacks. But we’re not talking about any old snack—training snacks should be small, high-value, and delicious. Positive reinforcement is the name of the game, and snacks are your secret weapon for teaching your new dog cues and how to be the best version of themselves.
Quick Tip: WAGD’s Training Snacks are perfect for rewarding your dog on the go. They’re tasty, and won’t crumble in your pocket—so you’re always ready to celebrate good behaviour, whether at the park or during a training session. Trust us, they’ll have your dog coming back and wagging in no time.
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3. Enrichment Toys (For Mental Stimulation and Happy Pups)
Your new dog isn’t just going to need physical exercise—they’ll need mental stimulation too. That’s where enrichment toys come in. These toys are designed to engage your dog’s brain, helping to prevent boredom and destructive behaviour (we’re looking at you, chewed-up shoes). And if you’re wondering what toy will keep your dog entertained for hours, allow us to introduce you to the hero of enrichment: The WAGD Squeakster.
The WAGD Squeakster is a fun, squeaky toy designed for playtime and mental stimulation with their human. It’s sturdy enough to withstand some proper pulling but engaging enough to keep your dog’s brain ticking.
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4. A Comfy Bed (For Those Well-Deserved Naps)
After all that training, walking, and playtime, your dog’s going to need a comfy place to crash. Investing in a cosy, supportive bed is a must for giving your dog their own space to relax and feel safe. Whether it’s a plush pillow bed, a donut-shaped nest, or something memory foam for older pups, make sure it’s soft, supportive, and big enough for them to stretch out.
Pro Dog Parent Move: Place the bed in a quiet spot where your dog can retreat and chill when they need some downtime. Because even the most energetic pups need to snooze like a pro.
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5. An ID Tag and Collar (For Style and Safety)
While your dog’s on-lead gear is essential, your pup should still have a collar with an ID tag . Not only is it a legal requirement in many places, but it also ensures your dog can be quickly identified if they ever get lost (*fingers crossed they never do!*). And hey, if they’re going to be wearing a collar every day, it might as well look good, right?
Our Pick: The WAGD Collar isn’t just designed for safety, it’s designed for style! Pair it with our durable lead, and you’ve got yourself a functional, fashionable accessory that keeps your dog safe and looking sharp.
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6. Poop Bags (Because, Well, You Know Why)
Ah, the glamorous part of dog-ness—picking up poop. It’s not fun, but it’s necessary. You’ll need a stash of biodegradable poop bags for every walk, because no one likes a dog parent who leaves a mess behind. Keep a roll in your pocket, attach a dispenser to your lead, and be the responsible dog peeps you were meant to be.
Top Tip: Go for eco-friendly, biodegradable bags to keep things green while keeping the streets clean. Mother Nature will thank you.
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Ready To Kit Out Your New Dog?
There you have it—your essential checklist for welcoming a new dog into your life. With the right gear, you’ll be ready for whatever adventures (and occasional chaos) come your way. Whether it’s stylish leads, enrichment toys like the WAGD Squeakster, or WAGD Training Snack for those rewards, we’ve got everything you need to kick off your dog parent journey in style.
So, what are you waiting for? Let’s kit up, get those tails wagging, and start making some memories with your newest family member. Because at the end of the day, all dogs are good dogs—and they deserve all the good sht we can give them!