I'm a dog owner and I swear by these 9 essentials
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I’m one of those people who loves their dog more than humans. And as a result, my pampered pup is very finicky about everything from his food to his toys.
His name is Rocco. He’s a three-year-old Maltese-Yorkie mix, who loves cuddles, long walks, and indulging in treats. Rocco is a small nine pounds, but he has a personality the size of a golden retriever (he’s never met a human he didn’t want to instantly befriend). He may not be the biggest pup, but he’s the best. And he knows what he likes.
As a dog parent, I’m always on the search for the best of the best, whether it’s something as simple as a flea and tick collar or a fun, interactive toy to keep his mind stimulated. After much trial and error (and countless Chewy orders), I have a go-to shopping list of Rocco’s favorite things.
Not only are these his essentials, but they’re also high-quality products that have stood the test of time (and Rocco’s pickiness). Check them out, below.
Outward Hound Fun Feeder Interactive Dog Bowl
This funky-looking bowl may not be at the top of Rocco’s list, but it is for me. The little guy loves to scarf down his food in seconds, which would make him sick, so this puzzle-like feeder has been a game-changer. Now it takes him a couple minutes to eat his food and he’s actually chewing it, too!
Shop it: $13 (was $20), chewy.com
Wellness Core RawRev Grain-Free Small Breed Original Recipe with Freeze Dried Turkey
Rocco occasionally gets wet food, but 90 percent of the time he eats dry food. His favorite continues to be this small breed kibble, which is packed with protein, including freeze-fried bites of turkey.
Shop it: $19 (for a 4-lb bag), chewy.com
Stella & Chewy's Chewy's Chicken Meal Mixers Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food Topper
Naturally, Rocco gets tired of his kibble sometimes. But the trick to get him to finish his meal is a few pieces of this meal mixer. The small pieces are easy to break up and sprinkle over his food, and they also double as treats.
Shop it: $10, chewy.com
Wild One Home Kit
No city pup’s space is complete without some stylish pieces from Wild One. The New York City-based brand makes a memory foam bed that’s Rocco-approved and has bowls large enough for a day’s worth of water. If he’s not sleeping in (seriously), Rocco’s nestled up in his cozy bed with a blanket.
Shop it: $150 (Was $175), wildone.com
Frisco Skinny Plush Squeaking Fox Dog Toy
This is the best $4 I’ve ever spent. Whether he’s zooming around the apartment or lounging in bed, Rocco brings this flat squeaky toy along. He’s already gotten one of the two squeakers out (victory!), but there’s one more to go and it’s been months since I’ve had to buy a replacement. It’s safe to say we’re both getting my money’s worth.
Shop it: $4, chewy.com
Puppia Soft Black Trim Dog Harness
Rocco is a friendly little guy so he needs a snug harness to keep him from running after people to greet (I will say, he’s gotten better with training). Regardless, this harness has been my favorite because provides a secure, comfortable fit, but it doesn’t dig into his neck or irritate his skin.
Shop it: $13 (was $15), chewy.com
Nature's Miracle Spring Waters Deodorizing Dog Bath Wipes
After a long walk in the concrete jungle there is no doubt Rocco needs his paws wiped down. I use these daily because after all, he lounges around on my couch and bed — and no one likes to be dirty. I love that they have an undetectable neutral scent and I only need one to get all four paws clean — they last for months!
Shop it: $6, chewy.com
Whimzees Alligator Dental Dog Treats
Little dogs are known for having bad teeth so in addition to regular brushing, I am a huge fan of these Whimzees. They’re not only a treat for Rocco, but the textured little vegetarian gators also help reduce build-up and freshen his breath.
Shop it: $15, chewy.com
Outward Hound Hide A Squirrel Puzzle Dog Toy
I have a love-hate relationship with these squirrels. Rocco absolutely loves this interactive toy, but when he finishes this puzzle, my apartment is covered in little squeaky squirrels (I made the brilliant choice of buying an additional pack of squirrels). It’s one of those toys that brings him so much joy that I can’t bring myself to get rid of it — until I step on a rogue squirrel (just kidding, Rocco!).
Shop it: $8 (was $13), chewy.com
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