Dog Essentials

Dear You + ME*,

I am adopting a dog (Ben) from our local shelter, and while I couldn't be more excited about his arrival, the items (collars, beds, leashes, bowls, etc.) that come along with dogs often leave something to be desired. Plus, there are is so much stuff out there that I am confused as to what I'll actually need and use. I feel like the dog supplies out there haven't found a happy medium between utilitarian and dog-as-dressup-doll, and I'm wondering if you have. Can you please help me with some suggestions for necessities that will make both Ben and me happy?

Thanks, T.

Dear T.,
Adopting a dog is one of the best things ever, provided you're ready to commit to one. We both get so much joy from our dogs; like kids, it's hard to remember life without them. We agree, though, that many dog supplies can be either way too over-the-top cutesy or seem to come from the rubbermaid home decor catalog. And, like almost anything else, your options for what to buy are limitless.

Here are a few must-have items that we think hit a happy medium:
You'll need a good set of bowls that won't skid around, but you also want them to be a) heavy enough that Ben can't tip them, and b) pretty enough so you won't be sad about them being in your kitchen. Our dogs, Dexter and Tahoe, both eat and drink out of a pair of utilitarian stainless steel bowls because we dig their unassuming presence in our kitchens. If you're not going for Petco chic, though, here are two more options:

Left: Stick Bowl, George; Right, Personalized Dog Bowl, Sunshine Ceramics

You'll also need a sturdy collar and leash, and some toys with which Ben can occupy himself while you are gone or busy. The collar and leash should be sturdy and look like they can withstand a good amount of pulling, chewing, rolling in the mud, and dragging. If you haven't been tipped off yet about the Kong, consider this your tip. It's one of the best dog toys out there. That said, it's not attractive at all. So here's an adorable moose instead. It features 5(!) squeakers, and each limb is knotted, which will hopefully be more attractive to chew on to Ben than your favorite pair of shoes.

Left: Star of Honor Collar & Lead, Trixie + Peanut; Right: Knotties Moose, Best in Show

Depending on your stance on pets on the furniture, you'll want a bed or 2 so Ben knows his place. Having a bed around is also good for training; you can teach him to go lie down in his bed when you need him out of the way. This has been a lifesaver for us when we've broken a glass, for example, or if we have visitors come over who don't like dogs. This bed is actually a duvet--you can stuff it with old t-shirts, blankets, pillows, etc. Dex has one right by our bed, and I ordered a second today for our dining room. You also may want a place to conceal all of the bags of treats that you will inevitably acquire. This vintage cookie jar is whimsical enough to let folks know that there might not be edible (to humans) things inside, but cute enough to sit on your counter.

Left: Pictures of You Duvet, Molly Mutt; Right, Antique Cookie Jar, Zen Hen

Lastly (I almost forgot, silly me), get Ben some tags with his name and your phone number. If he happens to go astray (and almost all dogs do at some point), you'll feel better knowing that whoever finds him will be able to get in touch with you. Remember to check every few months that your number is still legible. If you're traveling with him, you may want to consider getting him a tag for the place where you're traveling. George also sells these plastic travel tags that you can personalize with a Sharpie or other permanent marker.

Copper Pet Tag, jmanigrossi

Travel I.D. Tags, George

Have a great time with Ben; we hope he brings as much happiness to you as Dex and Tahoe have brought to me and Elisabeth.

(That's Dexie on the left and Tahoe on the right.)
xo,
ME*

Comments

[keli *]

I just adopted a dog yesterday and am so thrilled! Perfect timing with this post. :)

[miya]

yay, congrats, keli! having a pooch really is such a life-changer. your pup is one lucky dog!