All the Essentials Every Good Pet Parent Needs
For all the selfless good dogs provide, it’s only fair that we treat them right! Whether it’s choosing the right dishes or protecting their paws, it’s hard to pick which essentials we actually need. With that, let’s dive into 20 accessories dog owners (and their fur babies) would be lost without.
1. Food and Water Bowls
A cornerstone to owning any pet is ensuring they have washable food and water bowls. While some owners stick with the everyday metal, feel free to add some pizazz to your dishes—get them engraved, choose silly patterns, or opt for dual-use bowls like slow feeders.
2. Toothbrush and Dog Toothpaste
We don’t always think of our dogs as having the whitest teeth, especially as they age, but dental health is a big part of their overall health. Pet parents would be lost without a simple toothbrush and dog-friendly toothpaste. If you can, try to introduce your fur baby to those bristles early so they won’t give you such a hard time later.
3. Dog Booties
Whether it’s icy terrain or salted sidewalks, our dogs could use a great pair of boots to get them through the winter. It may take some getting used to, but a few awkward steps are more than worth the trouble of protecting their feet from harsh weather.
4. A Proper Bed
A good dog bed gives your pet a comfortable place to rest; given that they spend so much time of their time napping or relaxing, it’s important to keep them cozy. Anything from heated mattresses to orthopedic beds provide your pup with top-tier support.
5. Enrichment Toys
Don’t get us wrong—dogs go bananas for everyday squeakers and chewable bones, but enrichment toys are what keep their minds sharp. Snuffle mats, treat balls, and the classic Kong all keep your pooch entertained.
6. The Right Lead
Our furry friends aren’t going anywhere without the right leash! Your choice boils down to a few deciding factors like temperament, weight, and even breed. It’s also important to remember where you take them as nature walks and hiking paths often require something sturdier.
7. Paw Balm
Paws deserve protection all year round, which is why pet parents need a good balm. When you moisturize their paws, you protect them from cracking, soreness, and hot pavement. It’s the little accessory that goes a long way, especially in terms of spared veterinary bills.
8. Travel Water Bottle
As much as we love a good walk around the neighborhood, summer days warrant proper hydration—for you and your furball! Travel bottles keep cool, fresh water readily available whenever Fido needs it. They also hold quite a bit of liquid, so you won’t have to cut any trips short.
9. Poop Bags
Responsible pet owners clean up after their dogs. Make sure you grab a hearty supply of bags and a clipped dispenser for easy pick-up. Are you too grossed out to pick it up by hand? A simple scooper is the solution!
10. A Good Brush
“This town ain’t big enough for the two of us.” At least, that’s what we imagine saying every time a tumbleweed of fluff rolls by. As annoying as it is to deal with shedding, a good brush is part of your pup’s routine. Depending on their breed, you might get away with brushing once a week or need to brace for daily maintenance. Either way, combing that coat protects them from mats and tangles.
11. Travel Crate
If your fur baby is small enough for a travel crate, you might want to invest in one. Not only do pet carriers provide your pup with a safe space (which lowers stress), they also keep them safe during car rides or plane trips.
12. Reflective Gear
Don’t even think about nighttime walks without the right gear. Even the most diligent dog owners can encounter reckless drivers and the last thing you want is to put you or your dog in danger. Reflective coats, LED leashes, and light-up collars alert motorists of where you are.
13. All-in-One Dog Shampoo
Even if your pooch frequents the groomer or a self-serve dog wash, pet owners should still have shampoo at home. You never know when disaster will strike, and pet parents don’t want to get caught without this simple essential.
14. Hair Remover
From lint brushes to vacuum cleaners, hair removal looks different for every pet owner. However you invest, it’s a good idea to keep basic accessories like rubber brooms, rolling hair removers, and lint guard sheets.
15. A Well-Fitted Collar & Tags
A dog’s collar is the perfect place to show off their personality! From adorable designs to handmade options, pet owners can indulge in a variety of colors and patterns. That being said, the most important aspect of a collar is the fit—bring your dog to a pet store to ensure they get the right fit that keeps them comfortable.
16. Dog Crate
We may have covered travel crates, but indoor options are slightly different. On the one hand, they’re just as comfortable for your pet and can provide a safe space that’s totally their own. On the other hand, they’re also amazing accessories for house training and preventing any ruckus in your absence.
17. Ear Cleanser
You don’t always need to shell out hundreds of dollars for vet bills, especially for simple care you can tackle at home. A sensitive ear cleaner removes all that gunk and prevents a nasty infection from creeping in.
18. Comfortable Clothing
As much as we’d love to dress our dogs like people, they’re not a fan of the pageantry. They are, however, appreciative of a comfortable coat, so keep an eye on what your pup needs during the year. If they go for walks every day—regardless of weather—pick up a weather-resistant jacket. If they struggle with separation anxiety, consider a thunder jacket.
19. Suction Lick Mat
If anyone’s easily lured with food, it’s a dog! That’s exactly why a suction lick mat is your best friend (pup notwithstanding). Whether it’s getting them into the tub or distracting them as you cut their nails, a little peanut butter goes a long way.
20. Nail Tool
Speaking of nail trims, it’s not always easy to get our hands on their claws—and the sidewalk only helps so much. But you’re in luck because nail-grinding tools are a gentle, effective way to keep claws at a healthy length.
