Getting a new dog can be an exciting time, but it’s hard to know where to start when collecting supplies for your dog. Labradors are fantastic dogs that often come in as top dog for breed popularity in the United States. These dogs share basic needs with all other dog breeds, but they are also bred to be retrievers and have a double coat, which means they have a few specific item needs as well. Here are the 18 items you’ll need to get you started with your new Labrador, regardless of their age.
Essential Labrador Supplies
- High Quality Food
Check Latest Price
Type of item Food
Importance 5/5
A high-quality dog food is essential to the health of your new Labrador, no matter how old or young they are. These dogs are usually active, but they are also prone to obesity, so it’s important to select a food that will help your dog develop strong bones and healthy muscles but not lead to unnecessary calorie intake. Part of this equation is ensuring you are feeding your dog appropriate amounts of food, as well as providing daily activity, but good food will also help your dog grow healthy and strong.
- Training Treats
Check Latest Price
Type of item Food
Importance 4/5
Training treats are a fantastic way to encourage your dog and provide rewards during training exercises. These treats are usually small, soft, and low calorie, making them ideal for training exercises since multiple treats can be fed while still keeping your dog within their daily calorie range. Many training treats are soft enough to be broken into smaller pieces, allowing you to reward your dog with “more” treats without increasing calorie intake. They are also usually made to be highly palatable, making them an effective reward for a training dog.
- Chew Toys
Check Latest Price
Type of item Toy
Importance 4.5/5
Most dogs love to chew, regardless of their age. However, puppies tend to be big chewers since their teeth are growing, which can be uncomfortable. Chew toys are a great way to keep your Labrador out of trouble and provide them with appropriate outlets of energy. Some chew toys can be stuffed with treats and food, keeping your dog entertained for longer. When selecting chew toys, make sure to choose things that are appropriate for your dog’s size and age to prevent them from accidentally swallowing toys or pieces of toys. One pet supply that you may not have thought of is pet insurance. With a balanced, personalized plan like Spot Pet Insurance offers, you may be able to manage your pet’s vet costs and avoid surprises.
- Fetch Toys
Check Latest Price
Type of item Toy
Importance 4/5
Although Labs are bred to retrieve, not all of them will play this game, so this toy may not be essential for all Labs. However, many Labs will naturally participate in games of fetch, making fetch toys a fantastic addition to your dog supplies. Fetch toys can be as simple as a tennis ball or as complex as a tug toy with a throwing handle. Ideally, fetch toys should be reserved for playtime with people and should not be left with your dog unattended. This is because some fetch toys aren’t designed to be played with without supervision, but it’s also because it’s important for your dog to be able to fully enjoy the game, which they’re unlikely to be able to do without your participation.
- Puzzle Toys
Check Latest Price
Type of item Toy
Importance 4/5
Puzzle toys are becoming more and more popular every year, and for good reason. These toys are a great way to help your dog learn and burn energy. They’re especially beneficial when the weather is cold or wet, and your dog (or you) may not want to play outdoors. Puzzle toys can help your dog burn excess energy through using brainpower. They can be used to feed meals or treats. Some people find that puzzle toys are a good way to force their dog to slow down while eating meals.
- Home Dental Care
Check Latest Price
Type of item Health
Importance 4.5/5
There are a variety of home dental care products on the market. Some of them will allow you to brush your dog’s teeth, while others will provide your dog with a treat while they work on their teeth themselves. Dental care is a necessary aspect of your dog’s healthcare. Dental disease can lead to discomfort in the mouth, as well as serious medical problems like heart disease and infections. By keeping your dog’s teeth cared for at home, you may be able to increase the time period between when your dog needs their teeth professionally cared for at your vet’s office.
- Housetraining Products
Check Latest Price
Type of item Housetraining
Importance 5/5
No matter your dog’s age, they may need to be housetrained. Housetraining puppies can be quite an adventure, though, while older dogs may catch onto the rules faster since they have better control over their potty needs. Potty training products, like puppy pads, are fantastic tools to help you housetrain your dog and keep your house clean. Unfortunately, puppy pads tend to be exceptionally bad for the environment, so try to opt for reusable or washable puppy pads that reduce waste.
- Waste Collection Items
Check Latest Price
Type of item Waste collection
Importance 5/5
Picking up behind your Lab won’t just keep your yard clean, but it can keep you and those around you safe by preventing the spread of parasites and zoonotic diseases. Picking up dog waste also helps to protect the environment and prevent unpleasant smells. Poop bags are a handy way to keep your dog’s waste picked up. They can be taken on walks, but you can also use them to pick up the waste in your own yard. There are also a variety of shovels, grabbers, and other items on the market to help you keep your hands clean when picking up dog waste. Like with potty pads, poop bags can be really bad for the environment, so opt for compostable poop bags when possible.
- Cleaning Supplies
Check Latest Price
Type of item Cleaning supplies
Importance 5/5
Keeping things clean and hygienic are necessary for keeping the environment safe for your Lab and everyone in your household. Cleaning supplies can be used to keep your dog’s kennel clean or clean up behind them when they have an accident. There are a ton of pet-safe cleaning products on the market, but it is important that you ensure that you’re using pet-safe products on and around your Lab. Some products that aren’t formulated for use around pets can be irritating to your dog’s skin, eyes, respiratory system, and mucus membranes.
- A Kennel
Check Latest Price
Type of item Kennel
Importance 4.5/5
While a kennel is a good way to keep your dog safe and provide them with a space of their own that allows them to feel safe, not all dogs require a kennel. However, kennel training is a good idea no matter what since it allows your dog to get used to being in a kennel, which may be necessary during vet visits, boarding, or illness. A kennel can also be beneficial when housetraining and while you have a teething Lab puppy.
- Dog Beds
Check Latest Price
Type of item Bedding
Importance 4.5/5
Your Lab wants to be comfortable when they lie down! Providing a dog bed (or multiple beds!) is a good way to help your dog achieve comfort anywhere in your house. Each dog has an individual preference for bed size, shape, and type, and it may take some trial and error to determine what your dog likes best. Some people prefer to let their Lab on furniture instead of providing dog beds and blankets, which works well in some homes but may not be appropriate for all homes, especially those with babies and small children that are still learning boundaries with dogs.
- Collar
Check Latest Price
Type of item Collars and leashes
Importance 5/5
Under most circumstances, your dog should have a collar. Collars are not just important for having something to attach a leash to. They can provide a lot of information about your dog, including their rabies vaccination status and your contact information. Collars and collar tags can be used to ensure your dog gets back home to you if they get out of your house or yard. In some situations, it may not be safe for your dog to wear a collar, so make sure to assess each situation thoroughly.
- Leash with Handle
Check Latest Price
Type of item Collars and leashes
Importance 5/5
Obviously, a leash is necessary for taking your dog for a walk. Most cities have leash laws that require your dog to be on a leash, but even if your city or town doesn’t have leash laws, your dog should not be off their leash without perfect verbal recall. Leashes help to keep your dog safe from other animals, people, and vehicles, as well as keeping them safe from getting separated from you. Keep in mind that not all animals are friendly, so even if your dog is friendly, they should still be kept on a leash when in public to keep everyone safe. Most professionals don’t recommend extendable leashes since these can really decrease your control over your dog’s movements. Ideally, your dog’s leash should have a traffic handle, which is a handle located near the clip end of the leash that allows you to quickly pull your dog close if needed.
- Food Bowl
Check Latest Price
Type of item Bowls
Importance 5/5
Your Lab needs a place to eat their food. A food bowl made specifically for dogs ensures that you’re using a product that is formulated with the safety of your pet in mind. Aim for a bowl that won’t be easily chewed up or broken by your dog, even if they are a big chewer. Metal bowls are often recommended due to how easy they are to keep clean, making them safer and more hygienic for your dog.
- Water Bowls
Check Latest Price
Type of item Bowls
Importance 5/5
There are a variety of options for providing your dog with clean water, and no matter what you choose, your dog should always have access to plenty of clean water unless you have been directly advised to withhold water by your dog’s veterinarian. Make sure to regularly clean the water bowl or fountain you use for your dog on a very regular basis. Many people forget to clean water bowls, but in reality, it should be done every couple of days at least and there should always be clean water in the bowl.
- Grooming Brush
Check Latest Price
Type of item Grooming
Importance 4/5
Labradors are known to be heavy shedders, and a grooming brush is important to keeping their coat healthy and reducing excess shedding. A shedding brush is an exceptional way to keep your dog’s coat free of loose, dead fur, but you need to use these brushes carefully since they can be sharp and can damage the skin if overused or used incorrectly. Routine baths can also help to keep your dog’s coat clean and healthy.
- Nail Clippers
Check Latest Price
Type of item Grooming
Importance 4/5
Keeping your dog’s nails clipped will help prevent broken nails and other injuries. It can be difficult to trim your dog’s nails, though, so many people rely on their vet or groomer to keep their dog’s nails trimmed. Many dogs naturally keep their nails short through activity, like walking or running on hard surfaces like concrete. Some dogs can be trained to use nail scratchers, similar to those made for cats, that help to file their nails down. If you’d like to trim your dog’s nails at home, talk to your vet or groomer about learning how to do so safely.
- Chew Prevention Spray
Check Latest Price
Type of item Training
Importance 3/5
Chew prevention sprays aren’t necessary for all dogs, but they can be useful when it comes to dealing with a teething puppy. These sprays are safe for your dog, and the bitter taste discourages chewing. They can be used on just about any surface you don’t want your dog to chew on, like furniture and shoes. In many cases, chewing can be kept under control with training, positive reinforcement, and mental and physical stimulation. However, some puppies and dogs will try to chew no matter what, making these products quite useful.
Conclusion The list of products that could be useful to your life with a Labrador could go on all day, but these products are some of the most important. Keep in mind that any new pet needs a checkup with your veterinarian to verify they are healthy and up to date on things like vaccines, heartworm testing, and dewormers. If you’re unsure of any products you’ve chosen for your Labrador, make sure to talk to your vet before offering them to your new dog to ensure their safety and appropriateness for your dog.
Featured Image Credit: Tina-Rencelj, Shutterstock
Getting a new dog can be an exciting time, but it’s hard to know where to start when collecting supplies for your dog. Labradors are fantastic dogs that often come in as top dog for breed popularity in the United States. These dogs share basic needs with all other dog breeds, but they are also bred to be retrievers and have a double coat, which means they have a few specific item needs as well.
Here are the 18 items you’ll need to get you started with your new Labrador, regardless of their age.
Essential Labrador Supplies
- High Quality Food
Check Latest Price
Type of item Food
Importance 5/5
A high-quality dog food is essential to the health of your new Labrador, no matter how old or young they are. These dogs are usually active, but they are also prone to obesity, so it’s important to select a food that will help your dog develop strong bones and healthy muscles but not lead to unnecessary calorie intake.
Check Latest Price
Type of item Food
Importance 5/5
Part of this equation is ensuring you are feeding your dog appropriate amounts of food, as well as providing daily activity, but good food will also help your dog grow healthy and strong.
- Training Treats
Check Latest Price
Type of item Food
Importance 4/5
Training treats are a fantastic way to encourage your dog and provide rewards during training exercises. These treats are usually small, soft, and low calorie, making them ideal for training exercises since multiple treats can be fed while still keeping your dog within their daily calorie range.
Type of item Food
Importance 4/5
Many training treats are soft enough to be broken into smaller pieces, allowing you to reward your dog with “more” treats without increasing calorie intake. They are also usually made to be highly palatable, making them an effective reward for a training dog.
- Chew Toys
Check Latest Price
Type of item Toy
Importance 4.5/5
Most dogs love to chew, regardless of their age. However, puppies tend to be big chewers since their teeth are growing, which can be uncomfortable. Chew toys are a great way to keep your Labrador out of trouble and provide them with appropriate outlets of energy.
Type of item Toy
Importance 4.5/5
Some chew toys can be stuffed with treats and food, keeping your dog entertained for longer. When selecting chew toys, make sure to choose things that are appropriate for your dog’s size and age to prevent them from accidentally swallowing toys or pieces of toys.
One pet supply that you may not have thought of is pet insurance. With a balanced, personalized plan like Spot Pet Insurance offers, you may be able to manage your pet’s vet costs and avoid surprises.
- Fetch Toys
Check Latest Price
Type of item Toy
Importance 4/5
Although Labs are bred to retrieve, not all of them will play this game, so this toy may not be essential for all Labs. However, many Labs will naturally participate in games of fetch, making fetch toys a fantastic addition to your dog supplies. Fetch toys can be as simple as a tennis ball or as complex as a tug toy with a throwing handle.
Type of item Toy
Importance 4/5
Ideally, fetch toys should be reserved for playtime with people and should not be left with your dog unattended. This is because some fetch toys aren’t designed to be played with without supervision, but it’s also because it’s important for your dog to be able to fully enjoy the game, which they’re unlikely to be able to do without your participation.
- Puzzle Toys
Check Latest Price
Type of item Toy
Importance 4/5
Puzzle toys are becoming more and more popular every year, and for good reason. These toys are a great way to help your dog learn and burn energy. They’re especially beneficial when the weather is cold or wet, and your dog (or you) may not want to play outdoors. Puzzle toys can help your dog burn excess energy through using brainpower. They can be used to feed meals or treats. Some people find that puzzle toys are a good way to force their dog to slow down while eating meals.
- Home Dental Care
Check Latest Price
Type of item Health
Importance 4.5/5
There are a variety of home dental care products on the market. Some of them will allow you to brush your dog’s teeth, while others will provide your dog with a treat while they work on their teeth themselves. Dental care is a necessary aspect of your dog’s healthcare. Dental disease can lead to discomfort in the mouth, as well as serious medical problems like heart disease and infections. By keeping your dog’s teeth cared for at home, you may be able to increase the time period between when your dog needs their teeth professionally cared for at your vet’s office.
Type of item Health
Importance 4.5/5
- Housetraining Products
Check Latest Price
Type of item Housetraining
Importance 5/5
No matter your dog’s age, they may need to be housetrained. Housetraining puppies can be quite an adventure, though, while older dogs may catch onto the rules faster since they have better control over their potty needs. Potty training products, like puppy pads, are fantastic tools to help you housetrain your dog and keep your house clean.
Type of item Housetraining
Importance 5/5
Unfortunately, puppy pads tend to be exceptionally bad for the environment, so try to opt for reusable or washable puppy pads that reduce waste.
- Waste Collection Items
Check Latest Price
Type of item Waste collection
Importance 5/5
Picking up behind your Lab won’t just keep your yard clean, but it can keep you and those around you safe by preventing the spread of parasites and zoonotic diseases. Picking up dog waste also helps to protect the environment and prevent unpleasant smells. Poop bags are a handy way to keep your dog’s waste picked up. They can be taken on walks, but you can also use them to pick up the waste in your own yard. There are also a variety of shovels, grabbers, and other items on the market to help you keep your hands clean when picking up dog waste.
Type of item Waste collection
Importance 5/5
Like with potty pads, poop bags can be really bad for the environment, so opt for compostable poop bags when possible.
- Cleaning Supplies
Check Latest Price
Type of item Cleaning supplies
Importance 5/5
Keeping things clean and hygienic are necessary for keeping the environment safe for your Lab and everyone in your household. Cleaning supplies can be used to keep your dog’s kennel clean or clean up behind them when they have an accident. There are a ton of pet-safe cleaning products on the market, but it is important that you ensure that you’re using pet-safe products on and around your Lab. Some products that aren’t formulated for use around pets can be irritating to your dog’s skin, eyes, respiratory system, and mucus membranes.
Type of item Cleaning supplies
Importance 5/5
- A Kennel
Check Latest Price
Type of item Kennel
Importance 4.5/5
While a kennel is a good way to keep your dog safe and provide them with a space of their own that allows them to feel safe, not all dogs require a kennel. However, kennel training is a good idea no matter what since it allows your dog to get used to being in a kennel, which may be necessary during vet visits, boarding, or illness. A kennel can also be beneficial when housetraining and while you have a teething Lab puppy.
Type of item Kennel
Importance 4.5/5
- Dog Beds
Check Latest Price
Type of item Bedding
Importance 4.5/5
Your Lab wants to be comfortable when they lie down! Providing a dog bed (or multiple beds!) is a good way to help your dog achieve comfort anywhere in your house. Each dog has an individual preference for bed size, shape, and type, and it may take some trial and error to determine what your dog likes best.
Type of item Bedding
Importance 4.5/5
Some people prefer to let their Lab on furniture instead of providing dog beds and blankets, which works well in some homes but may not be appropriate for all homes, especially those with babies and small children that are still learning boundaries with dogs.
- Collar
Check Latest Price
Type of item Collars and leashes
Importance 5/5
Under most circumstances, your dog should have a collar. Collars are not just important for having something to attach a leash to. They can provide a lot of information about your dog, including their rabies vaccination status and your contact information.
Type of item Collars and leashes
Importance 5/5
Collars and collar tags can be used to ensure your dog gets back home to you if they get out of your house or yard. In some situations, it may not be safe for your dog to wear a collar, so make sure to assess each situation thoroughly.
- Leash with Handle
Check Latest Price
Type of item Collars and leashes
Importance 5/5
Obviously, a leash is necessary for taking your dog for a walk. Most cities have leash laws that require your dog to be on a leash, but even if your city or town doesn’t have leash laws, your dog should not be off their leash without perfect verbal recall. Leashes help to keep your dog safe from other animals, people, and vehicles, as well as keeping them safe from getting separated from you.
Keep in mind that not all animals are friendly, so even if your dog is friendly, they should still be kept on a leash when in public to keep everyone safe. Most professionals don’t recommend extendable leashes since these can really decrease your control over your dog’s movements. Ideally, your dog’s leash should have a traffic handle, which is a handle located near the clip end of the leash that allows you to quickly pull your dog close if needed.
- Food Bowl
Check Latest Price
Type of item Bowls
Importance 5/5
Your Lab needs a place to eat their food. A food bowl made specifically for dogs ensures that you’re using a product that is formulated with the safety of your pet in mind. Aim for a bowl that won’t be easily chewed up or broken by your dog, even if they are a big chewer. Metal bowls are often recommended due to how easy they are to keep clean, making them safer and more hygienic for your dog.
Type of item Bowls
Importance 5/5
- Water Bowls
Check Latest Price
Type of item Bowls
Importance 5/5
There are a variety of options for providing your dog with clean water, and no matter what you choose, your dog should always have access to plenty of clean water unless you have been directly advised to withhold water by your dog’s veterinarian. Make sure to regularly clean the water bowl or fountain you use for your dog on a very regular basis. Many people forget to clean water bowls, but in reality, it should be done every couple of days at least and there should always be clean water in the bowl.
- Grooming Brush
Check Latest Price
Type of item Grooming
Importance 4/5
Labradors are known to be heavy shedders, and a grooming brush is important to keeping their coat healthy and reducing excess shedding. A shedding brush is an exceptional way to keep your dog’s coat free of loose, dead fur, but you need to use these brushes carefully since they can be sharp and can damage the skin if overused or used incorrectly. Routine baths can also help to keep your dog’s coat clean and healthy.
Type of item Grooming
Importance 4/5
- Nail Clippers
Check Latest Price
Type of item Grooming
Importance 4/5
Keeping your dog’s nails clipped will help prevent broken nails and other injuries. It can be difficult to trim your dog’s nails, though, so many people rely on their vet or groomer to keep their dog’s nails trimmed. Many dogs naturally keep their nails short through activity, like walking or running on hard surfaces like concrete. Some dogs can be trained to use nail scratchers, similar to those made for cats, that help to file their nails down. If you’d like to trim your dog’s nails at home, talk to your vet or groomer about learning how to do so safely.
- Chew Prevention Spray
Check Latest Price
Type of item Training
Importance 3/5
Chew prevention sprays aren’t necessary for all dogs, but they can be useful when it comes to dealing with a teething puppy. These sprays are safe for your dog, and the bitter taste discourages chewing. They can be used on just about any surface you don’t want your dog to chew on, like furniture and shoes. In many cases, chewing can be kept under control with training, positive reinforcement, and mental and physical stimulation. However, some puppies and dogs will try to chew no matter what, making these products quite useful.
Type of item Training
Importance 3/5
Conclusion
The list of products that could be useful to your life with a Labrador could go on all day, but these products are some of the most important. Keep in mind that any new pet needs a checkup with your veterinarian to verify they are healthy and up to date on things like vaccines, heartworm testing, and dewormers. If you’re unsure of any products you’ve chosen for your Labrador, make sure to talk to your vet before offering them to your new dog to ensure their safety and appropriateness for your dog.
Featured Image Credit: Tina-Rencelj, Shutterstock
