10 things every new puppy needs, according to a dog trainer

March 28, 2020 at 7:21 AM·5 min read

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A puppy shopping list according to New York City dog trainer Shelby Semel. (Photo: Getty Images)

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting moment for the whole family. And along with lots of love and cuddles, there are a few items you’ll need to add to your home to make it ready for your new furry roommate.

New York City dog trainer Shelby Semel tells Yahoo Lifestyle that a few basic items are all it takes to help make your new puppy feel welcome and set them up for success. Semel says that “having things to keep them busy, getting them the right amount of exercise and training,” will also help your furry friend settle in and feel right at home.

Below she shares her top 10 must-haves to add to your puppy shopping list.

Exercise Pen

First, you need to designate an area for your new pup and keep them within that space using a pen.

“I like exercise pens that are metal because you can also use it to block off an area,” says Semel.

She notes that this style allows for multiple configurations when you want to open up more of the area to your pup, and can be easily stored away when Fido is ready to be left alone.

Shop it: Frisco Dog Exercise Pen with Step-Through Door, $29 (was $38), chewy.com

Wire crate

Semel recommends placing a wire crate within the pen, which you can cozy up with fluffy blankets and toys for comfort. She adds that a metal crate gives owners the ability to see their pup and the option to add a cover if your dog is more at ease in a cave-like space. When it comes to size she says, “when they’re full-grown they should be able to stand and turn around comfortably, so even if it’s a little big when they’re smaller, most crates come with a divider so you can set it up for them to stand and turn when they’re puppies.”

Shop it: Frisco Fold & Carry Double Door Dog Crate, $51 (was $66), chewy.com

Doggy camera

“I think a lot of times puppies can have issues when you’re not home and you find out when it’s too late, whether it’s through neighbor complaints or when something gets torn up,” says Semel. “A puppy camera is really helpful so that you can check in to make sure they’re resting comfortably and not getting into trouble.”

Shop it: Wyze V2 Pet Camera, $25, chewy.com

Bitter apple spray

Fooey Ultra-Bitter Training Aid Spray. (Photo: Chewy)

“If your puppy is chewing on furniture or hands and feet, spraying this once or twice a day is usually a deterrent for most puppies,” explains Semel. “I like the apple one the best because if you spray it on [human] skin it doesn’t feel sticky or gross.”

Shop it: Fooey Ultra-Bitter Training Aid Spray, $7, chewy.com

Interactive toy

Semel says interactive toys are great for keeping your pup busy, whether you’re away or just want to watch a movie. “I love this one because you can put kibble or treats inside,” she adds. “You can stick it in the crate or pen to create a positive association, too.”

Shop it: Busy Buddy Twist ‘n Treat Dog Toy, $7 (was $12), chewy.com

Bully sticks

Speaking of keeping your puppy busy, Semel says stocking up on your pup’s favorite bully sticks, flossies or marrow bone is always a good idea to switch things up. “You want to always have a delicious snack that they can safely chew for when you want a solid 30 to 40 minutes of downtime.”

Shop it: Bones & Chews Bully Stick 6″ Dog Treats, $12, chewy.com