Bringing a new puppy into your life?
Congratulations! You’ll need lots of new supplies, so here is your new puppy checklist. So you don’t forget anything, here is your checklist. Along with the list, I’ve added the products mentioned, that I would suggest.
You will need these when you bring your little one home.
- Food
- Bed
- Leash & Collar and Halter or Harness
- Toys
- Treats
- Cleaning Supplies
- Grooming Supplies
- Coats & Sweaters
Food
The number one thing you’ll need, of course, is food. If you got your puppy from a breeder, a shelter, or a rescue organization, be sure to ask what they have been feeding him. Never abruptly change a dog’s diet. Well, not if you don’t want to clean up the results of tummy upset. If you want to feed your puppy something different, just gradually change it a little at a time for a week or so.
There is so much emphasis now on feeding dogs fresh, homemade dog food or raw diets. I feed my own homemade dog food that I make myself. But, that is not a good idea unless you have done the research on nutrition for dogs! But here are a few suggestions.
A canine nutrition specialist can help point you to the very best dog food for your unique little Chihuahua and that will address any issues he or she may be having, such as arthritis, overweight, allergies. ChiChis And Me offers different nutrition consulting services that will fit both your lifestyle and your budget.
The next best thing to feeding your own fresh homemade dog food? Having fresh homemade dog food delivered right to your door! Spot & Tango will help your new puppy live longer for a longer lifetime of cuddles and Chihuahua kisses! Formulated by veterinarian nutritionists and personalized for your individual Chihuahua! Order today from ChiChis And Me and get 50% off your first order! To get your exclusive offer (only through ChiChis And Me) just click the photo, the button below, or use code: CHICHIS50 at checkout.
I also recommend NomNom (formerly NomNomNow) homemade dog food. Through ChiChis And Me you also will get 50% off your first order of NomNom!
BED
You’ll need a bed. There are many different types of beds made of many different materials. Chihuahuas love to burrow under blankets. I love cuddle beds. There are many different beds to fit every dog’s needs and preferences.
JOEJOY Small Dog Cuddle Bed
Your dog will think they are in heaven when they curl up in this plush warm and soft cuddle bed. Little dogs like to curl up under things; blankets, pillows, etc. That’s why this will be your little prince or princess’s favorite bed! Orthopedic and washable.
BEST BEDS FOR SMALL DOGS
Prices subject to change
Orthopedic Self-Heating
$34.99
Sofa Bed
$14.59
Curly Plush
$25.99
Leash, collar, halter
Even tiny dogs will pull on the leash. It’s best to train them not to, but it is vital that when you walk your Chihuahua you use a halter to prevent a collapsed trachea, also known as backward sneezing.
I’ve always had trouble figuring out how to put on a halter. These are not only easy to put on but — your dog just steps in — they are also cute and comfortable for them to wear. You can also find leashes to match to complete the ensemble.
Toys
Dogs need stimulation, both physical and mental, that’s why I recommend interaction toys. They will not only stimulate their mind but also expend pent-up energy.
If dogs are not given enough mental and physical stimulation every day, they may very likely develop some undesirable behaviors. Things like, chewing inappropriate objects, excessive barking, tearing up furniture, pillows, etc.
Giving dogs toys are an absolute necessity. They need interaction toys and plenty of chew toys. You can find chew toys at any pet store. I have found that good interactive toys are harder to find, however. The following are some that my dogs have and love and some are my recommendations.
Pet Qwerks Peanut Butter Incredibubbles
Dogs love to chase and bite at bubbles. These are peanut butter flavored and last longer than soap bubbles
Trixie Gambling Tower Activity Strategy Game Dog Toy
This treat game lets pups figure out which loops to pull to get the tasty rewards to dispense.
ZippyPaws Burrow Squeaky Hide and Seek Plush Dog Toy
For hours of entertainment. hide the included squeaky sharks in the ship and it will challenge your dog as he works to dig them out.
Training Treats
Puppy-hood is the best time to train and your little one. You will need lots of training treats. You also don’t want your Chihuahua to get chubby or overweight so when training, treats should be tiny pieces. Your Chihuahua puppy has a very small tummy and you want most of his nutrition to come from his daily meals.
Bones & Chews All Natural Grain-Free Jerky Made With Real Chicken
Fruitables Skinny Minis
Apple Bacon Flavor Soft & Chewy Dog Treats
Blue Buffalo Blue Bits
Savory Salmon Recipe Soft-Moist
Cleaning Supplies
Remember that your puppy is just learning. There will be accidents. There is no avoiding them unless you keep your Chihuahua confined at all times. Puppies need lots of interaction with their human(s), so NEVER leave your Chihuahua confined in a crate for long periods of time.
It has been said that Chihuahuas are difficult to house-train. That is not true. Although they can have a stubborn streak, they are easily trainable! Need help? See 6 Fail-Proof Steps To Housebreaking Your Chihuahua.
They are very curious little creatures. They learn and explore their environment with their noses and their mouths. Expand their world and expose them to lots of different environments under supervision.
Grooming Supplies
Keeping your dog’s coat clean and brushed is important. Long-haired Chihuahuas actually shed less than short-haired. Long-haired Chihuahuas will shed a lot, but only twice a year. Short-haired Chihuahuas, however, shed all the time.
They need their nails trimmed regularly. How often depends on the dog. Chico’s nails grow fast and I have to trim them more often than I do Pebbles or Remedy’s
Coats and Sweaters
Last, but not least, your new little one will need coats for walks in cold weather. He will need sweaters too. Chihuahuas, especially puppies don’t regulate body temperature well. Even indoors, if the temperature is just right for you, it is probably too cold for him. This is the case, especially when running the air-conditioner.
Winter Warm Knit Dog Hat Scarf And Leggings
Perfect for any little prince or princess in cooler weather. Keep them warm and comfy when traveling, socializing, or going for a walk and they will thank you! Be prepared for all the ohhhs and ahhhhhs because you will hear a lot of them.
Take Them Out In Style
Prince or Princess Sweater
What your pet wears says a lot about their personality, literally! (pink or blue)
Blueberry Pet Snowflake
Expertly crafted with a timeless pattern. the hole at the neck is smartly designed so that you can attach a leash
Frisco Basic Hoodie
This soft traditional style pull over hoodie is complete with a kangaroo-style pouch pocket on the back (6 colors)
As you can see, owning a puppy can get rather expensive, but Oh-So-Worth-It! Once you have your initial supplies, you will no doubt want other things for your puppy and will have to replace some during their lifetime.
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