Getting a new Labrador puppy is a big deal. The first days with your new pup can be one of the happiest days of your life, but it can also be overwhelming and stressful. It’s very important to be ready for this big day. You need to have the knowledge to care for your new dog and have the essential supplies. Here is a checklist of the new Labrador puppy essentials you will need to survive the first days with your new Lab.
Have plenty of High-Quality Food
Good nutrition is essential for the development of a puppy. Giving the right food to your new Labrador will ensure it grows into a happy and healthy dog and lives a long and happy life. Look for food made with natural and high-quality ingredients and high content of meat-based protein. Avoid foods with high-fat content, and foods made with wheat, corn, and generic “meat” labeling, as this usually means that the food is made from parts of animals that are not very nutritious. Also, avoid foods that contain artificial flavors.
Check out these great options to feed your new puppy
Comfortable and durable dog bed
A comfortable and durable den is very important for your new puppy. A Labrador puppy doesn’t need a big bed, a small to medium size will be fine. But remember that puppies grow very fast, if you buy a small bed your puppy could outgrow it very fast. You could buy a large bed from the start, but keep in mind that puppies like to chew everything in their sight when they are teething. So, it might be a good idea to buy a sturdy medium-sized bed for your Labrador puppy, and when It is done teething and has outgrown the first bed, then buy your dog a nice large-size bed that will serve your Lab for many years. If your Labrador likes to snuggle, you can get a burrow bed, so it can get cozy inside.
Here are some great dog beds, your puppy will love to sleep in
A good crate is important for your puppy
Your dog will spend a lot of time in crates, every time your dog goes to the groomer, during vet visits, and every time you travel with your dog. For this reason, your Labrador must get crate trained. A good durable crate is very important for a dog owner, crates are also very useful for potty training a puppy.
These crates are great for Labradors
Potty pads are a must-have.
Potty pads are a must-have supply for new puppy owners. It takes some time for puppies to get potty trained, and you cannot take a puppy outside to pee until it gets all the vaccines. Until then, you will need plenty of absorbable pads to help you keep your house clean and odorless.
Strong and durable Collar and leash
Once you start taking your new puppy for walks a collar and leash are must-haves. There are many types of collars for Labradors, some are simple and functional, and others are stylish and fun. You can also use a harness instead of a leash, this is recommendable for young puppies. But remember that Labradors are very strong, flimsy collars will break instantly if your Lab starts pulling very hard. Therefore, you need a sturdy collar and leash that won’t break.
These collars and leashes are a must-have for Labrador owners
Lots of chew toys
Puppies need to chew something when they are teething. If you don’t provide them with lots of chew toys they will chew your stuff. Chew toys can save the furniture around your house from your puppy’s teeth. Labrador puppies get bored with their toys very easily, that’s why you need to have a variety of toys that your puppy can choose from. Some chewing toys also help to clean your dog’s teeth and massage their gums.
Your puppy will love these chew toys
Food and water bowls
This is a no-brainer; your puppy needs to eat and drink. When choosing a bowl for your new Labrador puppy, look for one that is easy to clean and that won’t flip over or slide around while your puppy eats or drinks. Labradors have big appetites, a slow-feeding bowl will stop your dog from eating too fast.
These bowls are awesome for feeding a labrador puppy
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