We often get asked about products that we recommend for puppies. From collars to training aids to food, here are a few products or types of products that we use personally and recommend.
We highly recommend a prong collar. They are excellent training aids and we use anytime we have ours on a leash.
Teaching your pup to ring the bell will give you an audible clue when your puppy needs to go out to potty. A doggy doorbell is a must-have housebreaking training aid in our opinion.
I recommend buying a crate that will be large enough for when your puppy is full grown but also has a divider so that you can section it off while they are a pup. A crate that is too large when they are a pup may enable them to have accidents in the crate away from their sleeping area. A crate large enough for when they are full grown (~ 70lbs) plus has a divider for when they are small, helps you to have a one time investment in a crate.
SportDog brand in-ground electric fence is what we use at our house and property. I recommend upgrading the wire and using a little heavier gauge wire. The wire that comes with these kits is often very thin. You can find the kits and heavy gauge wire on eBay from authorized SportDog dealers.
Purina Pro Plan
or Purina SmartBlend
There are ALOT of food options out there for dogs and you should check with your vet for their recommendations but we have found a trusted source with Purina SmartBlend or the Purina Pro Plan.
PRODUCTS TO AVOID
This list of products to avoid is based on our own experience or research.
- HARTZ Brand Flea Medicine. HARTZ Brand and others such as Adams are commonly carried by Walmart and other retailers. Our dogs have had skin irritations from these in the past. We use Seresto collars on our dogs and cats. Consult your veterinarian.
- Dog foods marketed as grain-free.