Bringing a dog into your life means unconditional love, endless joy, and a little preparation. Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or adding another furry friend to your family, having the right essentials ensures your pup’s health, happiness, and safety from day one.
We’ve gathered a vet-approved list of must-haves that every responsible dog owner should keep on hand.
A Safe, Comfortable Crate
A crate serves many purposes: it’s a safe retreat, a helpful training tool, and a secure space for travel. Dogs are den animals by nature, so a crate can actually make them feel calm and protected, when used correctly.
What to look for:
- The size of the crate matters: Your dog should be able to stand up, turn around, and stretch out comfortably. If you have a growing puppy, look for a crate with a divider so you can adjust the space as they grow.
- Material: Wire crates offer airflow and visibility; plastic ones work well for travel and provide a cozier, enclosed feel.
- Safety first: Ensure it has a sturdy latch and no sharp edges.
Tip: Never use a crate as punishment. Instead, make it inviting, add a washable bed, a few soft toys, and cover it with a light blanket for a den-like feel.
High-Quality Dog Food
Nutrition plays a crucial role in your dog’s long-term health. High-quality food supports healthy digestion, shiny coats, strong immunity, and steady energy.
Here’s what vets recommend:
- Real meat first: Choose foods that list whole protein (like chicken, beef, or fish) as the first ingredient.
- Skip fillers: Avoid products with corn, soy, wheat, or by-products as the main ingredients.
- Balanced nutrition: Look for foods that meet AAFCO standards, meaning they contain complete and balanced nutrients for your dog’s life stage.
- Tailored choices: Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different dietary needs—select food based on age, size, and breed.
If you’re ever unsure, consult your vet to find the best option. A slow transition over 7–10 days helps prevent digestive upset when switching foods.
Tip: Add PicoPets' natural mineral supplements to your dog's food for added essential nutrients!
Daily Science-Backed Pet Supplements
Even the best diets can leave nutritional gaps, especially when processed or cooked foods are involved. That’s where PicoPets liquid minerals come in. They’re doctor created, easy to use, and highly absorbable, ensuring your dog gets the essential nutrients they need.
Here’s how each vet-approved supplement contributes:
- ReMag: Helps with nerve and muscle function, helps calm anxious or excitable dogs, promotes cellular energy.
- PicoMyte: A multi-mineral formula (11-in-1) that supports hydration, energy, and holistic wellness.
- Pico Silver: Helps strengthen immune function, supports skin health, and assists in healing and pathogen defense.
- Pico Selenite: Supports healthy aging, antioxidant defense, and overall longevity.
Just add the liquid minerals to food or water for effortless, everyday wellness.
Get a Durable Collar with ID Tag
A good collar isn’t just about looks, it’s a safety essential. If your dog ever escapes or wanders off, an ID tag can be the key to a quick reunion.
Choosing the right collar:
- Fit: You should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck.
- Material: Nylon is lightweight and durable; leather is long-lasting and softens over time. Reflective collars are great for visibility at night.
- Comfort: Avoid collars that rub or chafe, especially for dogs with sensitive skin.
What to include on your dog's ID tag:
- Your dog’s name
- Your phone number (with area code)
- City and state
- Optional: “Microchipped” or a secondary contact number (like your vet)
If your dog is microchipped, make sure your contact info is always up to date in the database.
A Strong, Reliable Leash (No Retractables!)
Retractable leashes may sound convenient, but they can be dangerous—causing burns, entanglement, or loss of control. A standard 6-foot leash gives you better handling and safety.
Look for:
- Durable materials: Nylon, rope, or leather that won’t fray easily
- Comfortable grip: A padded handle prevents hand fatigue during long walks
- Secure clasp: A sturdy metal clip keeps the leash safely attached to the collar or harness
Bonus tip: For pullers, pair a fixed leash with a front-clip harness for better control and comfort.
Dental-Safe Chew Toys
Dogs love to chew, it relieves stress, keeps them entertained, and helps maintain dental health. But not all chew toys are created equal.
Choose toys that are:
- Made of durable rubber or nylon (like KONG or Nylabone)
- Textured to gently scrub teeth and gums
- Sized appropriately for your dog’s mouth
Avoid hard items like cooked bones, hooves, or antlers, which can fracture teeth.
Combine safe chew toys with Pico Silver®, which supports gum and oral health from the inside out for a healthy, happy smile.
Pet First Aid Kit
Accidents and minor injuries can happen anytime, and a pet-specific first aid kit helps you act fast before reaching the vet.
Must-haves:
- Gauze pads and adhesive tape
- Antiseptic wipes and antibiotic ointment
- Tweezers (for ticks or splinters)
- Digital thermometer
- Scissors and gloves
- Saline solution (for rinsing eyes or wounds)
- Emergency contact list (your vet, local ER clinic, and poison control hotline)
Store your kit in an easy-to-access spot and check it regularly for expired items.
Poop Bags and Dispenser
Responsible pet ownership includes cleaning up after your dog. Keep biodegradable poop bags on hand and use a dispenser that attaches to your leash so you’re never caught without one.
It’s a small act that keeps your neighborhood clean and your community happy.
Healthy Training Treats
Training is an ongoing part of a dog’s life, from puppyhood through adulthood. Treats motivate learning—but they should also support health.
Choose treats that are:
- High in protein and low in calories
- Free of artificial colors, sugars, and preservatives
- Sized appropriately for your dog
Freeze-dried meats or soft, limited-ingredient treats are great options. For sensitive dogs, use part of their regular kibble during training to avoid overfeeding.
Pro Tip: You can even add PicoPets supplements to your dog's treats for added nutritional value and support!
Seasonal Extras to Consider
Your dog’s comfort can change with the seasons. Here are a few optional, but helpful, add-ons:
- Winter gear: A coat or booties for cold weather and salt-covered sidewalks
- Summer gear: A cooling mat or vest for hot days and plenty of shade and hydration
- Tick and flea prevention: Year-round protection keeps your dog itch-free and safe from disease
Make Sure Your Dog is Getting the Best with Vet-Approved Products
Being a dog owner is about more than love, it’s about providing safety, health, and enrichment every day. With these vet-approved essentials, you’ll be prepared for anything from walks and playtime to wellness and comfort.
And when it comes to daily health support, PicoPets’ liquid mineral supplements make it simple to give your pet everything they need, naturally and effectively.
