Interview Trainer
We recommend conventional, in person training. Your trainer should visit your home within the first week of the puppy joining your family. We recommend that your trainer do an initial visit in your home to start off on the right track. They can give you “homework” to help keep on track until your puppy is old enough for group classes.
"Animal Behaviorist" is the key terms you are looking for. DO NOT USE A TRAINER AT PETCO OR ALIKE. Find a professional trainer.
Group classes can begin at 4 months of age, after all shots have been given.
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A wonderful alternative training option is BAXTER & Bella Online Puppy School.
Make Your First Vet Appointment
Per our contract, puppy needs initial veterinarian visit within 3 business days of pick up to activate your health guarantee. Heath records will be provided to you.
Investigate Pet Insurance
Trupanion.com offers no waiting period if enrolled online within first 24 hours after picking up puppy. We will provide you with activation codes in your Go Home Packet. WE STRONGLY RECOMEND PET INSURURANCE.
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Dog Bed
This is the starter bed we recommend. They will outgrow it very quickly, so purchase a basic bed that can be thrown in the wash. We find our dogs like soft beds with a bumper.
We also like throw sized blankets for the sleeping crate. They are easy to wash in case of accidents.
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Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Forumula - Chicken
https://www.chewy.com/purina-pro-plan-high-protein-chicken/dp/52414
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Food and Water Bowls
We like metal bowls. Avoid plastic (they turn into chew toys)
Treats
We recommend a "cookie" every time your puppy goes in the crate.
Training treats should be as small as a pea. A child can have 10 M&M's but not 10 pieces of cake.
Wire Crate
We buy our crates from Amazon, Chewy or Tractor Supply. This will serve as a safe place for your puppy when they cannot be supervised. We do NOT recommend a corral.
Buy a crate with a divider. We like this size - 36" L x 24" W x 27" H
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Note that the stated packaging weights may be larger than your puppy will be. This breed stretches out when they sleep. Also, by utilizing the divider, you will just have to purchase one crate, rather than a new crate every month.
Leash and Collar
Harness: We do not recommend the "step in - V harnesses". Dogs can wiggle out of them easily.
We recommended something like the style below
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Harness - https://www.chewy.com/chais-choice-premium-outdoor/dp/169501
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Collar:
Recommended Size - Size Small - 5/8 inch x 10-14 inches
Please bring your leash and collar with you when you pick up your puppy. The smaller the clasp the better, so it won't be heavy on their neck.
Leash
recommended Size - Size Small - 5/8 inch x 6 ft
Cleaning Solutions
We like Nature's Miracles Products. They have several options depending on your need to clean up accidents. We also like their laundry boosts for bedding accidents.
Sheets
Two sheets that will completely cover the play crate and sleeping crate.
Play Crate: King size
Sleeping Crate: Twin size
Grooming Supplies
We have listed some of our favorites in the Amazon links above.
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This is the BEST shampoo. It won't leave that "wet dog" smell!
Shampoo - Cowboy Magic Shampoo
Toys
Avoid super soft toys with squeakers. It encourages them to be destructive. They can eat the squeakers and then you have to make sure the squeaker comes out, one end or the other!
We also do not like Kongs that you can fill. Dogs can easily get their tongue or jaw stuck in them.
The BEST sleeping buddies come from Kohl’s Cares. The toy designs change but they normally have good options.
Yack Cheese Chews are also a must. There are several brands and sizes to pick from
Some of our other favorites: