New Dog Essentials: Products for New Dog Owners to Thrive
Hey, new dog parent—welcome to the pack! I’ve been hooked on dogs for over 50 years, and every time a new pup or new adult dog bounds into my life, I’m reminded how those first days are pure magic—and a little mayhem. And to prepare you for your new dog, we're going to share with you new dog essentials, products for new dog owners, that can make or break your first days with a pup—because bringing home a new dog isn’t all tail wags and cuddles.
It’s not about drowning you in options but spotlighting the new dog essentials that have made my dogs’ lives (and mine) better—from chew-toy rescues to crate-training wins.
New dog owners—busy pros and first-timers alike—often stumble into chaos without the right gear. You’re not alone: 60% of new owners feel unprepared week one (ASPCA 2024).
So, what’s the fix?
It’s not just about grabbing stuff—it’s knowing why certain products for new dog owners matter.
I’ve lived it, watched friends figure it out, and learned what’s gold. So, here’s the rundown of top products you need for your new dog—why they’re must-haves and how they’ll turn those early weeks into a tail-wagging blast.
By the way, if you have products for your dog you just can't live without, share a link to it in the comments below and tell me about it/them.
Here’s how the best products for new dogs turn stress into success—let’s unpack their roles.
Why You’re Struggling Without the Right Gear
A new dog’s a whirlwind—adorable, yes, but relentless. Without the right tools, every day’s a battle. Pee accidents soak your rugs, restless nights drain you, and walks? A tug-of-war disaster.
X posts (April 2025) show new owners venting: “Day 3, I’m exhausted—help!”
The stakes climb fast—untrained chaos spikes stress (cortisol up 25% in messy homes, AVMA 2023), and your pup’s just as frazzled. Skip these new dog essentials, and you’re not just surviving, you’re sinking. Here’s why the right products for new dog owners aren’t optional, they’re your lifeline.
New Dog Essentials: Why They Matter
The best products for new dogs don’t just sit there; they solve problems, ease pain, and set you both up to thrive.
Here’s why each one’s a game-changer—and how they transform your first weeks.
A Sturdy Crate: Your Calm Corner
Why It’s Essential:
New dogs crave safety—shelter stress or breeder blues linger, and open spaces overwhelm. A crate’s their den: a spot to chill when chaos hits (e.g., guests, Zoom calls). Studies show crated pups settle 30% faster (Pawprint 2025)—less whining, more peace. For you? Fewer messes—accidents drop when they’ve got a “home base.”
Bella was an exception because for the first 13 months of her life she was stuck in a crate all day long, 5 days a week. That was 9 hours a day from the time her first owner left for work to the time when she got home from work. Our hearts went out to Bella, and we never wanted her to feel "trapped" again, but instead filled with love!
It was a personal decision, a judgment call on our part. For Bella we believe we made the right decision even though I'm a firm believer in 'crate training'.
A crate done right can be a sanctuary, a safe space for your dog. Whether it's 4th of July with fireworks going off or a thunderstorm that has your dog freaking out and whining, they'll appreciate having their own safe space they can go to.
How It Helps:
Bottomline, it gives them a safe space serving multiple needs.
For starters, with walls on both sides and behind the dog they know there's only one way in and out. Dogs like to know they can't be attacked from the side or from the rear. A crate gives them that security.
When they're afraid like during fireworks blasting and thunderstorms it gives them a safe place to go that's protects them on all sides leaving just the front entry way to protect.
Placement of the crate is best in the corner. Against a wall is the next best spot. Just make sure the dog has great visibility of anyone coming into the room. In other words, do not put the crate where the entrance is facing away from the doors and entry into the room the crate is in.
Role:
Teaches boundaries, cuts anxiety—busy pros need this sanity-saver.
Here are 3 options for crates (Be sure to get the right size, which also means that as your puppy grows you'll need to get a larger crate):
Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate
Your standard stationery crate. You can turn this into a safe space by putting a blanket covering all of the sides except the front where the dog enters.
Link: Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate - 9 sizes, 2 choices for doors
4.7 Rating from 22,861 | 2,000 bought last mo
SportPet Designs Plastic Travel Dog Crate
This is for traveling. It's also got wheels so you can pull/push your pet around and not have to carry it. Very helpful for larger dogs.
Link: SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate - 4 sizes, double door option
4.6 Rating from 4,649 | 500 bought last mo
DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion
The uniqueness of this crate is it can double as furniture; the top looks and functions like a counter. It's attractive looking and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb in the room you place it in.
Link: DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion - 4 sizes, 10 colors
4.7 Rating from 670 | 5,000 bought last mo
Your dog needs a safe place. A crate is an easy solution but isn't the only solution.
My last pup (some years ago), by day three, went from whining to napping in her new crate we had ready for her when we brought her home. There are a lot of advantages to crate training, if done right.
Done wrong, and your dog will hate it and do everything in its power to avoid it. They're either a safe haven or a prison.
Collars: Part 1 Of Walks Without War
Why It’s Essential:
Walks are your glue—exercise, bonding, and a chance to explore. A collar and leash keep them safe from darting off; a collar with ID tags is your “lost pup” safety net. It’s non-negotiable for any new dog duo.
You need to understand that on day one your new dog is going to yank like a sled dog—walks turn into wrestling matches. A collar and leash aren’t just control—they’re connection. Properly fitted, they signal “we’re a team,” not “I’m loose!”
Role:
Builds trust, keeps them safe—vital for city pros or park newbies.
How It Helps:
Flat collars with quick-release clips slip off if caught. They can also break easier. I prefer collars with an old-fashioned buckle. Let me show you...
This is the quick-release clip that breaks easier and can slip apart if pulled hard enough, so I do not recommend this type of connector for medium and larger dogs! It may be easier to hook and release, but it's not as strong.
This is old faithful when it comes to buckling your dog's collar. Hard to break & doesn't slip apart.
The collar should fit snugly—two fingers under—and check it weekly; puppies grow fast.
ID Tags need your phone number and their name—a microchip's a bonus. We have both an ID Tag and microchip for Bella.
Start leash time indoors—short jaunts, treats for staying close.
Clip on before doors open; I’ve seen pups bolt without it.
For pullers, a front-clip harness eases strain—nylon’s tough, adjustable.
Wash it monthly—mud happens. It’s not just gear; it’s your first step to teamwork.
Here are the collars we recommend:
Basic Reflective Dog Collar
For every day use. Not recommended for med/lg dogs due to latch.
Link: Basic Reflective Dog Collar - 5 sizes, 15 colors, option to buy pkg of 2
4.5 Rating from 851| 500 bought last mo
PetiFine Dog Collar with Metal Buckle
Old faithful for collars with the metal buckle. Lots of people have been convinced to get collars with the latch like on the previous collar which easier to hook, but not as strong or reliable.
Link: PetiFine Dog Collar with Metal Buckle - 4 sizes, 5 colors
4.5 Rating from 791| 50 bought last mo
Heavy Duty Nylon Dog Collar Metal Buckle with Handle for Dog Training
Tactical collar, strong buckle. Recommended by military & police. Can be used daily. Handle to grab dog.
Link: Heavy Duty Nylon Dog Collar Metal Buckle with Handle for Dog Training - 5 sizes, 28 Colors
4.4 Rating from 12,943 | 800 bought last mo
Tactical Dog Collar, Adjustable Military Training Nylon Dog Collar
Another great collar for training or every day use.
Link: Tactical Dog Collar, Adjustable Military Training Nylon Dog Collar - 5 sizes, 10 colors, optional collar & leash set
4.4 Rating from 11,845 | 2,000 bought last mo
No Pull Dog Harness
Same one we got for Bella for walks; she can't pull out of this one. Love this harness.
Link: No Pull Dog Harness - 4 sizes, 21 colors
4.5 Rating from 18,606
Leash: Part 2 Of Walks Without War
How It Helps:
A 6-foot nylon leash gives control—long enough to sniff, short enough to reel ‘em in. I wouldn't go less than a 6-foot leash. Those with reflective stitching keep you and your little buddy or lady safe when walking at dusk and after dark!
Here are the leashes we recommend: (For med/big dogs, I really like the padded handle)
GEIT Dog Leash
The standout for this leash is I really like the clasp! Has a padded handle, highly reflective full length, 1/2" thick to support large dogs.
Link: GEIT Dog Leash - 4 sizes (but would only get 6'), 7 colors
4.5 Rating from 578 | 100 bought last mo
Taglory Rope Dog Leash 6 ft
Has a padded handle, highly reflective full length, 1/2" thick to support large dogs. We have one like this.
Link: Taglory Rope Dog Leash 6 ft - 6 sizes (get 6'), 12 colors
4.7 Rating from 17,058 | 8,000 bought last mo
NEW 2025 Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash 16.4 ft
Heavy Duty. No tangle, one-button leash length adjustment, soft anti-slip grip, reflection leash for night
Link: NEW 2025 Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash 16.4 ft - 2 choices: pets 0-50 lbs or 0-110 lbs, 2 colors
4.6 Rating from 562
TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash
Tangle-Free, one-handed brake, has a lock so no more can come out so you control the distance.
Link: TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash - 5 sizes (10', 3 at 16', 26'), 8 colors
4.5 Rating from 107,811 | 6,000 bought last mo
Chew Toys: Save Your Stuff
Why It’s Essential:
Dogs chew—teeth itch, boredom bites, stress gnaws. Without a toy, your couch or shoes are fair game. It’s a sanity-saver and a happiness-booster rolled into one.
Teething or boredom—new dogs chew something. Without toys, it’s your shoes or table legs—$100+ in damage fast. Chew toys redirect that energy—mental stimulation slashes stress by 20% (AVMA 2023). Your pup’s happy, your wallet’s safe.
Role:
Channels instincts, protects home—newbie must-have.
How It Helps:
A rubber toy you can stuff with treats or peanut butter keeps ‘em busy for hours as they try to get the treats or peanut butter out; freeze it for teething pups.
We had one for Bella, stuff it with peanut butter, and she completely ripped it apart. Like I've shared numerous times, Bella is a master at destroying her toys.
Hard nylon bones take a beating—size it right, no choking.
Rope toys with knots double as tug fun—great for playtime bonding. However, a warning for those who have a big dog... there are right ways and wrong ways to play tug of war with your dog:
- No Rules: If tug’s a free-for-all—grabbing from hands, no “drop it” cue—pups learn pushiness. A German Shepherd’s strength can turn that into a handful by adulthood.
- Resource Guarding: If she’s possessive (snarling over toys, food), tug might amp that up—rare, but check her vibe. Your Bella snuggles, not guards, so likely not her.
- Overstimulation: Puppies get wild—teeth fly, energy spikes. A 6-month Shepherd tugging too hard might nip accidentally—looks aggressive, it isn’t.
- Bad Timing: Post-rescue or shy pups (like a crated-all-day case) might misread rough play—fear, not fight, kicks in.
You can play tug with your dogs and keep it safe, fun, and aggression-free. Here’s how:
- Set Rules: Teach “take it” to start, “drop it” to stop—treats seal the deal. She drops, you play again—you're in control.
- You Win Sometimes: Let her snag it half the time, you keep it half—balance, not battle. She’ll learn it’s a game, not a coup.
- Strong Toy: Rope or rubber tug toy—nylon’s tough, handles her jaws. No sticks—splinters hurt.
- Watch Her: Tail up, body wiggly? Play on. Stiff, growly, grabby? Pause—redirect with a sit.
- Short Bursts: 5-10 minutes—tires her out, not up. Match her bursts!
Start with two chew toys; rotate weekly to keep ‘em hooked—scent fades, novelty wins.
Watch for shredders—toss frayed bits fast.
Place ‘em where they flop; my pups always found ‘em by the couch.
It’s not just distraction—it’s mental work, tire-out magic, and a way to say, “Chew this, not my slippers!”
Bella's two favorite toys is:
- Plain old tennis balls, and
- Her all time favorite is her Kong Frisbee! Following is Bella with her well-used Kong...
Kong Frisbee
This flying disc is made of forgiving, durable KONG Classic Natural rubber, ensuring a safe, comfortable catch for your pet. This is the ONLY frisbee Bella can't destroy!
Link: Kong Frisbee - 2 sizes (we get large)
4.4 Rating from 31,974 | 6,000 bought last mo
Often it's a trial-and-error process to find the toy your dog will like.
Quality Dog Food
Why It’s Essential:
Food’s their fuel—energy for romps, growth for pups, shine for coats. A good diet’s the root of health; skimp here, and you’ll feel it later.
How It Helps:
Ask the shelter or breeder what they ate—stick to it first, mix new stuff slow (a week, 25% bumps) to dodge tummy riots.
Kibble’s easy—vet-approved brands balance it right; wet food’s a hydration treat.
Puppies need growth formulas—adults, maintenance.
Measure it—bags guess high; my big guy bloated ‘til I cut back.
Bowls separate from water—dogs like it clean.
Store it sealed, cool, dry—bugs like ants love dog food too.
Sample packs test picky eaters; watch their poop—firm’s gold.
It’s their daily boost—get it right early.
There are a lot of food choices. Ask 100 people and you'll likely get 70 recommendations. Here a few popular brands who make a quality dog food. You'll notice they offer numerous types like for the puppy, adult, senior, overweight dog.
These links take you to their store on Amazon where you can see all of the different choices available. This is the easiest way for you to make a decision on the food choice.
- IAMS
- Hills Science Diet
- Blue Buffalo (most expensive)
Wet food or dry food? Or both? Some people do wet, some do dry, some do both to include mixing them together.
If you can't get your dog to eat dry food, mix it with wet food. Most want their dogs to eat dry food because it's less expensive, especially if you have a big dog which will be a big eater.
Once you find the food your new dog likes, you can setup a subscription to have the food shipped to you monthly and delivered right to your doorstep. It's what we've done, and many thousands of other people do also. We have subscriptions for the food for both Bella and our cats. It's super convenient.
Because there are so many choices, we plan to write an article on the different options and key things you need to know when selecting the food you'll be feeding your new furry family member.
Stainless Steel Food Bowls
Why It’s Essential:
Bowls keep meals tidy—no food trails or water art. They’re the unsung heroes of a clean feed zone.
How It Helps:
Stainless lasts—plastic scratches and breeds germs. Stick with stainless steel.
Wide bases stop tips—elevate for big breeds, neck’s happier.
Two bowls, split spots—food here, water there; dogs hate crossover.
Rinse daily, dishwasher weekly—stink’s the enemy.
Size it up—small for pups, big for hounds. My messy eater splattered less with a deep one. It’s simple gear that saves your floors and their manners.
Bella pawed her bowl all of the time so we screwed it down to a board and then put a medium sized cooler we put her food in on the other end of the board to hold it all down. This solved so many problems!
Here are two choices we recommend:
2 Pack Hammered Stainless Steel Cat Bowls
No slide rubber bottom
Link: 2 Pack Hammered Stainless Steel Cat Bowls - 4 sizes, 10 colors
4.7 Rating from 896 | 100 bought last mo
Lightweight Stainless Steel Cat Bowls
Link: Lightweight Stainless Steel Cat Bowls - 3 sizes
4.6 Rating from 6,750 | 200 bought last mo
Bella has a plastic gravity water dispenser with a large water container because she drinks a lot, and she's a bit messy. A bowl like the ones above don't work for Bella! I wash it all out with soap and disinfectant every time I fill it back up. Others may be facing the same thing, so here are some gravity feeders & water dispensers...
Water Bowls: Routine Rules
Why It’s Key:
Spilled kibble, tipped water—messy feeding’s a nightmare. Bowls set a rhythm—same spot, same time—and dogs thrive on it (80% settle faster with routine, Pawprint 2025). For you? Less cleanup, more calm—busy pros can’t skip this.
Role:
Grounds day one, fuels health—simple but huge.
Gravity Pet Food Feeder & Water
This is the type of feeder we use for our cats. We use a gravity water dispenser for Bella.
Link: Gravity Pet Food Feeder & Water - Water, Food or a combo with both (better value to get the combo)
4.3 Rating from 66,923 | 1,000 bought last mo
Feeder and Water Dispenser Gravity
Link: Feeder and Water Dispenser Gravity - 3 colors
4.4 Rating from 4,496 | 2,000 bought last mo
A Cozy Dog Bed: Rest That Resets
Why It’s Essential:
No bed? Your dog’s pacing or crashing on your couch—neither’s restful. A bed’s their recharge zone—orthopedic ones ease puppy joints (or senior creaks), and 70% of owners report calmer nights (PetSafe 2024). You sleep too—no 3 a.m. nudges.
Role:
Boosts health, cuts chaos—busy folks need this reset button.
How It Helps:
Elevated cots beat heat and chewing—plush beds hug nervous pups tight.
Washable covers handle spills—zip-offs are clutch.
Corner spot, near you—they’ll flop where they feel safe.
Size up—sprawlers need room; my girl curls but still takes the big one.
Test it out—firm for joints, soft for snoozes. It’s their recharge station—nights get smoother fast.
If you don't want the dog on the furniture, then you need to get them their own bed. Bella has her own bed, and she lays on the furniture because we just don't care.
We do put blankets over the furniture, though, so if we have guest we can take the blanket off.
Beds we recommend:
KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Deluxe Plush
This is the same bed we got for our Bella girl for downstairs. She loves it. Obviously other people do too because over 10,000 purchased last month!
Link: KSIIA Washable Dog Bed Deluxe Plush - 8 sizes, 4 colors
4.6 Rating from 22,477 | 10,000 bought last mo
OhGeni Orthopedic Dog Bed Couch
Orthopedic! Features egg crate filling, delivering exceptional softness and support compared to traditional foam beds. The 3” high cushion ensures even weight distribution, providing comfort for your dog’s joints.
Link: OhGeni Orthopedic Dog Bed Couch - 6 sizes, 11 colors
4.7 Rating from 670 | 5,000 bought last mo
Training Treats
Why It’s Essential:
Treats turn “sit” into a snap—positive vibes build trust with your new pal.
How It Helps:
Small, soft bites they can gulp quick—no choking, all reward. Chicken or peanut butter are common choices that wins ‘em over—stash ‘em everywhere. I had a dog sitting for crumbs in a week; start early, keep it fun.
We've tried all kinds of treats for Bella. The cheap crap she wouldn't eat. She's only liked 2 of the many treats we tried with her.
Then one night I was having some beef jerky. She went bonkers for the beef jerky! So I'd use my beef jerky as a treat and training for a while, but that got expensive so I researched beef jerky flavored dog treats.
Because of Bella's love of beef jerky (I think every dog loves beef jerky) we found an amazing treat for her, which we also now use when training:
Full Moon All Natural Essentials Beef Jerky Tenders
Bella's not the only one who loves these treats... over 8k purchased last month! Meet strict USDA standards fit for human consumption, all natural, USDA approved free range beef.
Link: Full Moon All Natural Essentials Beef Jerky Tenders - 3 flavors (Jerky, chicken & duck), 8 sizes
4.7 Rating from 6,431 | 8,000 bought last mo
A Grooming Brush
Why It’s Essential:
Shedding’s a storm—brushing cuts it and bonds you. Healthy coat, happy dog.
How It Helps:
A slicker brush tackles tangles; rubber ones grab loose fur on short coats. Weekly swipes—my shaggy mutt went from fuzz-ball to sleek with five minutes’ work. Bonus: less vacuuming.
Brushing is a constant in our house with Bella and 2 Maine Coons. We've found that we really like the grooming gloves. Our furry pets like them too.
We have a page covering grooming combs and brushes (click link to go to that page) you should look at. We have numerous options there so it really doesn't make sense to add them all here also.
A Pet-Safe Cleaner
Why It’s Essential:
Accidents happen—pee, puke, muddy paws. A cleaner saves your floors and your nose. Plus, you need pet friendly cleaning products when cleaning their area and areas they're around.
How It Helps:
Enzyme sprays kill odors, not just mask ‘em—carpet’s the battleground.
Dab, don’t scrub; my first pup’s mess taught me that. Stock up—week one’s a spill zone.
These are the most popular cleaners:
Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray
Pet Stain and Odor Remover, Carpet Cleaner Solution for Cat and Dog Urine, 32 Fl Oz
Link: Resolve Urine Destroyer Spray
4.5 Rating from 18,145 | 20,000 bought last mo
Nature's Miracle Small Animal Cage and Surface Cleaner
Bio-Enzymatic Cleaning Formula, Destroy Tough Stains and Odors, 24 Fl Oz
Link: Nature's Miracle Small Animal Cage and Surface Cleaner
4.7 Rating from 17,867 | 4,000 bought last mo
Nature's Miracle Dog Stain and Odor Remover
Everyday Mess Enzymatic Formula, begins to break down and remove stains immediately on contact, 32 fl oz
Link: Nature's Miracle Dog Stain and Odor Remover
4.6 Rating from 15,018 | 10,000 bought last mo
Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator
FOR SEVERE DOG MESSES: Powerful enzymatic formula works to eliminate tough stains and odors from dog urine, diarrhea, vomit and other bio-based accidents.
Not just for dogs, cat's spray your carpet too & throw up. Fresh Scent, Severe Mess Enzymatic Formula For Tough Pet Messes, 32 Oz
Link: Nature’s Miracle Advanced Stain and Odor Eliminator - 6 sizes
4.6 Rating from 22,074 | 10,000 bought last mo
Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator
Powerful odor fighting: Angry Orange pet odor eliminator targets strong, lingering smells at the source and destroys them. Multi-purpose: Can be used to eliminate odors from carpet, tile, couch upholstery, garbage cans, car interiors, turf, and more.
Link: Angry Orange Pet Odor Eliminator - 2 scents, 4 sizes
4.3 Rating from 115,527 | 10,000 bought last mo
A Basic First-Aid Kit
Why It’s Essential:
Scrapes, stings, oops moments—a kit’s your quick fix before the vet. Peace of mind’s huge.
How It Helps:
Gauze, antiseptic wipes, a tick remover—keep it simple.
I’ve patched a paw cuts mid-hike; ask your vet for extras like Benadryl doses.
Stash it where you can grab it fast. You could even have one for home and one for the car if you really want to be on the safe side.
Top selling first aid kits for pets
Accidents happen and when it does you need the products to take care of your pet. Get one for home & for the car.
Link: A top selling first aid kits for pets - 2 choices
4.8 Rating from 1,403 | 1,000 bought last mo
Why These Products Beat the Chaos
The best products for new dogs aren’t random—they’re science-backed sanity-savers.
- Crates cut crate-training time by half (PetSafe 2024).
- Leashes drop pulling stress—your arms thank you.
- Beds and toys soothe restless pups—fewer barks, more bonds.
- Bowls? They’re the glue—routine’s king.
Skip these new dog essentials, and you’re gambling with your peace—60% of owners wish they’d prepped better (ASPCA 2024). With them? You’re not just surviving—you’re thriving, and your pup’s right there with you.
Conclusion: Set Up Smart, Start Strong
Bringing home a new dog is a leap—messy, wild, wonderful.
Products for new dog owners like these new dog essentials aren’t extras—they’re your edge. They tackle chaos, teach calm, and turn week one into a win.
Why matters more than what—knowing each product’s role (safety, trust, rest) sets you apart so you are fully prepared for your new dog.
Grab the best products for new dogs that fit your vibe—your pup’s ready to thrive. Are you?