Shopping for your new furry friend can be an enjoyable experience, but it can also get a bit pricey. Luckily, you can save some money by borrowing or buying second-hand items. Here’s a list of essential items you’ll need for your Labrador puppy: 1. Puppy-proofing baby gates.
Pet gates are a handy tool for keeping young pups contained in specific areas of your home. By using a pet gate, you can limit your puppy’s access to rooms with easy-to-clean floors, protecting him from potential accidents on stairs or unsupervised play on carpets. Another essential item for puppy training is a crate. This crate serves as a safe space for your puppy to retreat to and prevents any accidents or injuries when you’re not able to supervise him, such as while you’re asleep. Additionally, using a crate can aid in house training your new furry family member.
Looking for a crate for your puppy? Consider getting a small crate or a large one with a divider to help your puppy feel secure and prevent him from using one end as a toilet. Check out a variety of crate ideas and tips here! Not sure if you need a crate or how to use one? Take a look at this article on the benefits of a dog crate. For car travel, a plastic carry crate with a handle is a convenient option that will last your Labrador puppy through the first few weeks.
As your puppy grows and starts chewing more heavily, it’s important to invest in a strong and durable car crate to keep them safe while traveling. These crates come in various sizes and styles to fit your car, and there are also other options like doggy seat belts and car dividers available. Check out this article for a wide selection of travel crates for Labradors. Additionally, vet bedding fleece on a roll is a great choice for puppy bedding.
You can use this bedding to line both his bed and his car crate. It’s a good idea to have multiple pieces so you can easily swap them out for washing when needed. In the first few days, veterinary bedding is a must-have to keep your pup’s crate warm and tidy. If you’re looking for a cozy bed for your pooch in the living room, check out our article on Labrador Beds And Bedding. Don’t forget to grab some fun puppy toys for your Labrador to keep him entertained and happy!
It’s important to choose durable toys for your puppy. Even though they may be irresistibly cute, their sharp teeth can quickly destroy soft toys. Kongs and rope toys are great options as they are tough and can withstand the puppy’s relentless chewing. Check out our recommended toys for Labradors, including the reliable Radio toy.
If you plan on having your new puppy sleep alone in the kitchen right away, consider placing a portable radio near their crate to provide some comfort. A simple and affordable radio with low volume can help your puppy feel less lonely during those initial nights when they may be missing their home. Additionally, as your puppy grows and starts exploring outside, it’s important to invest in a puppy harness for their safety.
These days, I usually suggest using a harness for puppies to prevent any strain on their neck. I recommend ones that have both front and back attachments for the leash. You can read a detailed review of top harness brands from a professional trainer on this website. Once your puppy grows older and has mastered walking by your side, you can consider getting a collar. We also have some fashionable suggestions for dog collars and leashes in our article on the top choices for Labradors. Another essential item to have in your training toolkit is a clicker.
A clicker serves as an “event marker” to signal to your puppy when they have done something good. This tool is essential in teaching your puppy to behave and learn new tricks. You can easily purchase a simple clicker at a low cost without needing anything extravagant. Using a clicker during training will make the process faster, simpler, and more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. Another useful tool to consider is a dog whistle.
A whistle can be a helpful tool in training your puppy, acting as a signal for them to follow a command. Introducing a recall to whistle command early on in your puppy’s training can set them up for success. I suggest trying out the Acme Dog Whistle for this purpose. For more information on using and selecting the right dog whistle, check out the article “Considering a Dog Whistle: Is it Worth it?” in The Happy Puppy Handbook.
Looking for some guidance on raising and training your Labrador puppy? Look no further than The Happy Puppy Handbook! Written by Pippa Mattinson, founder of Labrador Site, this book covers everything you need to know to kickstart your journey with your new furry friend. Join the forum for tips, tricks, and support from fellow puppy parents. Get ready to have a blast with your pup!
