12 Essentials You Definitely Need If You Just Adopted a Dog

1. Messy Mutts Double Silicone Dog Feeders

Make mealtime less messy with this double dog feeder. It comes with stainless steel bowls, which are not only easier to clean than, say, plastic, but they’re also more durable and less likely to trap bacteria. The silicone mat will protect your floors from scratches and keep mealtime contained, thanks to the raised border that catches spills from sloppy eaters. (No judgment!) 

Buy: Messy Mutts Double Silicone Dog Feeders, starts at $25 from The Container Store

2. Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Dental Kit

Starting your pup off on a dental regimen early can potentially help prevent problems (and costly vet bills) down the road. Get your new dog used to getting teeth brushed with this oral care set that includes an angled toothbrush and peanut-flavored toothpaste. Aside from maintaining healthy, clean teeth and gums, this will help keep your dog’s breath fresh—so, yeah, you’re welcome.

Buy: Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Dog Dental Kit, $6 (normally $11) from Chewy

3. Puracy Green Natural Carpet and Upholstery Shampoo

With a new and anxious pet in the house, accidents are bound to happen. Puracy’s carpet and upholstery shampoo comes in a fresh, citrusy scent that isn’t overpowering, while the plant-based ingredients are totally pet safe.

Buy: Puracy Green Natural Carpet and Upholstery Shampoo, $15 (normally $16) from Chewy

4. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Chicken Dinner

If you’ve got a picky eater on your hands, try wet food instead of kibble. Prepped with high-quality ingredients, this homestyle chicken dinner with veggies and brown rice will nourish your pup as he grows.

Buy: Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Chicken Dinner, $18 (normally $32) from Chewy

5. Kong Classic Dog Toy

For parents of puppies or energetic dogs who need to be kept occupied, the Kong can be a godsend. Just fill with treats, peanut butter, or something yummy to help soothe separation anxiety or relieve boredom. Even when empty, the Kong’s shape causes it to bounce unpredictably, keeping your pet entertained when you’re not there to play fetch. Choose from size XS to XXL to find the just-right pick for your pooch.

Buy: Kong Classic Dog Toy, starts at $8 from Chewy

6. Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Dog Crate

A crate gives your dog a safe, secure place to hang out when you’re not home (or chill when you are), which is great for your peace of mind—and your pup’s! This easy-to-assemble and easy-to-clean option has two doors, as well a divider panel that allows the crate to expand as your dog grows. It also folds up and has adjustable handles so you can conveniently carry it anywhere. Just remember: Always remove collars, tags, leashes and the like before you close your furry buddy inside!

Buy: Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Dog Crate, starts at $19 (normally $24) from Chewy

7. Good2Go Martingale Dog Collar

Pro (ish) tip: If you’re adopting a puppy, do not spend a lot of money on a fancy, custom collar right away. Your pup will grow out of it—and quickly. Instead, opt for a quality collar that doesn’t cost a fortune, like this two-tone pick. Martingale collars have two loops for extra control without choking or slipping off, making them ideal for larger breeds or dogs with wider necks—or a new pup who might be a flight risk in unfamiliar territory!

Buy: Good2Go Martingale Dog Collar, starts at $10 from Petco

8. Best Friends by Sheri Shag Donut Dog Bed

Spoil your doggo with a bed that’s as snuggly as it is stylish. This faux shag fur dog bed provides a plush, cozy spot for pup to cuddle up, and it comes in neutral hues that easily blend with your decor. Bonus: The bottom is water- and dirt-resistant and the entire bed is machine washable—comfy for pup, convenient for you!

Buy: Best Friends by Sheri Shag Donut Dog Bed, starts at $39 from Wayfair

9. Puppia Dog Harness

Made of soft, lightweight fabric with air-mesh padding, Puppia’s comfy harnesses are beloved by pet parents all over. An adjustable quick-release chest belt—with a D-ring for leash attachment—makes this an easy on-and-off option, which is especially helpful if your pup is a wiggle worm or just new to the whole harness thing.

Buy: Puppia Dog Harness, starts at $15 (normally $16) from Chewy

10. Max and Neo Dog Gear Double Handle Reflective Dog Leash

Not all leashes are created equal, and the folks at Max and Neo have thought of everything with this ultra-durable nylon option. Two neoprene padded handles at different lengths allow you to keep your dog closer or give more slack, while reflective stitching offers added visibility during nighttime walks. The best part? When you buy a leash or collar from this brand, another gets donated to a dog rescue in need!

Buy: Max and Neo Dog Gear Double Handle Reflective Dog Leash, $18 (normally $30) from Chewy

11. Multipet Lamb Chop Dog Toy

Maybe it’s the plush outer fabric, maybe it’s the squeakers in the paws and belly— whatever the reason, this stuffed Lamb Chop toy is a furry fan favorite. (Think Sophie the Giraffe, but for dogs.) Of course, figuring out what toys your new pup likes is a trial-and-error process, but this beloved best-seller is a good place to start!

Buy: Multipet Lamb Chop Dog Toy, $8 from Target

12. Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Handheld Vacuum

Fun fact: Even “non-shedding” pups shed a little bit and, depending on the breed, puppies don’t start shedding their baby coat until approximately six months old. So while you may not think you need a pet hair vacuum initially, it may just be worth your while to snag one anyway. Bissell’s easy-grip handheld option seamlessly picks up pet hair and dirt on your upholstery, stairs, floors, and other surfaces, so you can keep your home fur-free (ish) and breathe easy. 

Buy: Bissell Pet Hair Eraser Handheld Vacuum, $37 from Bed Bath & Beyond