5 Dog Supplies Every Dog Owner Needs
Getting a dog is kind of like getting a toddler with more hair and fewer boundaries. It’s awesome, chaotic, and full of love — but also full of stuff. And let’s be honest, pet stores can be overwhelming. Squeaky tacos? Heated orthopedic beds? Vegan raincoats?
Before you spiral into buying $300 worth of chew toys your dog ignores, let’s focus on the five absolute must-haves every dog owner should start with.
No fluff, no nonsense — just the essentials. (Okay, maybe a little fluff.)
1. A Solid Collar and Leash Setup
Obvious? Sure. But there’s a right way to do this.
You need a collar with:
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- An ID tag with your contact info
- Comfortable material — nylon or padded leather are great
Pair it with a strong leash — 4 to 6 feet is ideal for control and freedom. Avoid those retractable leashes for now. They’re great for tangling around your legs and ruining walks.
Bonus points if you get a harness, especially for pullers or smaller dogs. Less pressure on the neck = happier, safer dog.
2. Crate or Safe Den Space
Even if you’re not into “crate training,” dogs need a space that’s theirs. A crate is great for:
- Travel
- Vet visits
- House-training
- Keeping them safe when unsupervised
It’s not a punishment. Think of it as their doggy studio apartment — cozy, quiet, and off-limits to chaos.
Look for:
- A size that allows them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably
- A crate pad or blanket to make it cozy
- Optional cover to block out distractions
Hot tip: Don’t rush crate time. Let them explore it with treats, praise, and chill vibes.
3. Food and Water Bowls (That Don’t Slide All Over the Floor)
Yes, a cereal bowl technically works — but it’s time to upgrade.
What to get:
- Stainless steel or ceramic bowls (easy to clean, don’t hold odors)
- Weighted or non-slip base to avoid the “food bowl shuffle”
- Raised feeders if your dog is older or tall — easier on the neck and joints
And don’t forget fresh water access all day, every day. Especially if you’ve got a heavy pant-er or treat enthusiast.
Bonus: collapsible travel bowls for on-the-go pups. They’re lifesavers for hikes, road trips, or long park days.
4. A Basic Grooming Kit (Because Your Dog Will 100% Get Gross)
Even if you’re not grooming-show-level fancy, basic hygiene is non-negotiable.
Your starter kit should include:
- A good brush suited to your dog’s coat type
- Nail clippers or a grinder
- Dog-friendly shampoo (not your coconut vanilla body wash)
- Toothbrush + dog toothpaste (yes, it’s a thing — no, human paste is not okay)
- Ear cleaner if your pup’s got floppy ears
Brushing is bonding. Brushing also prevents mats, smells, and “what is that in your fur?” moments.
PSA: If your dog sheds enough to knit a new dog weekly, invest in a deshedding tool. Worth it.
5. Toys That Actually Do Something
All toys are not created equal. Some are cute. Some last two minutes. Some are basically indestructible rubber miracles.
You want a mix of:
- Chew toys (for teething, boredom, or stress)
- Interactive toys (like puzzle feeders or treat balls — mental exercise = tired dog)
- Comfort toys (soft plushies, especially for cuddlers)
- Fetch-friendly options (balls, frisbees, tug ropes — classics for a reason)
Rotate them. Keep it fresh. And if you find “the one” toy they’re obsessed with? Buy backups. Trust me.
Important: Always supervise at first, especially if your dog has a history of shredding things like a furry paper shredder.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a closet full of squeaky dinosaurs or an Instagrammable treat shelf to be a great dog parent. Start with the basics that actually make life easier — for you and your pup.
Let’s recap:
✅ Collar + leash with ID
✅ Crate or cozy den space
✅ Sturdy, clean food + water setup
✅ Grooming tools for regular TLC
✅ A solid toy rotation
Spoil them later with bow ties and bougie beds — but nail these five first, and you’re already doing great. 🐕💪
I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉
