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Learning, Sharing, and Teaching => Ask a Mustachian => Topic started by: NestEggChick (formerly PFgal) on February 18, 2016, 07:59:55 AM

Title: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: NestEggChick (formerly PFgal) on February 18, 2016, 07:59:55 AM
I'm so excited, I'm getting my first dog!!! Yay! But with a dog comes the need for dog supplies.

The way this works is, I'll meet the dog, and if we get along, I'll take her home with me that day. That means I can't buy a lot of what I need in advance, because if I don't adopt her, the dog I end up with might be a different size. I'm going to borrow a crate from my parents for a couple days and then order one online, but where should I get everything else: collar, id tags, leash, food, treats, a few toys..... any suggestions for a chain or a store local to the Boston area? (I'll post in the Boston group, too.) I know I'll have to lay out some money, and I'm ok with that (I've budgeted for it, of course,) but I don't want to overspend if I can help it.

Thanks!
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 18, 2016, 08:33:16 AM
Quote
collar, id tags, leash, food, treats, a few toys

We get all this at either Target or Walmart.

Don't go crazy on the toys. Our dog turned her nose up on absolutely everything but a rope. She only needs one toy.

Buy food in small bags until you figure out what works for your dog. We bought good high protein food for our dog, and she can't digest it. Vet switched her to a mass-market, grain-first food and she's much healthier now. Not the typical dog diet.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Parizade on February 18, 2016, 08:42:20 AM
Check Freecycle or Craigslist. After my cat died I gave away all the supplies and leftover food on Freecycle, and it was gone pretty quickly. Just clean everything with bleach before you use it.

Except the food, if you get any. Don't bleach that ;-)
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: garion on February 18, 2016, 08:42:54 AM
Depending on time of day, you may be able to get things on Amazon same-day for free (if you have Prime). Otherwise, PetCo is usually priced competitively.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Elliot on February 18, 2016, 09:59:06 AM
I do PetCo For a lot of things, because on their mailing list I get coupons and sometimes free samples.

Agree with not going crazy on toys yet. My dog won't touch anything that's rubbery, so The expensive Kong toy we bought we we first got him was given away. He has a small basket now, and he picks out which toy he wants to play with. He likes his tennis ball, a knotted rope toy, a plush, and this weird orange and blue nubbly fabric ball (which is A+ forever favorite). Anything more than that and he gets overwhelmed.

A tip I know you didn't ask for, but if you have a dog that's over say, 40lbs, then get an elevated set of bowls. Not only does it help your dog be more
Comfortable while eating, it cuts down on the air they swallow while eating which in turn reduces gas.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: lbmustache on February 18, 2016, 10:57:31 AM
I'm going to echo Petco. They have everything. As a bonus, they have a bunch of leftover Valentine's day toys on sale right now - but I'd only buy 2 or so right now (maybe one soft toy, one chew toy) because like others have said, the dog may or not like the toys.

When I first got my dog (also a rescue) she didn't play with any toys - she didn't know how. Now she plays with toys, but only the plush ones.

I just went there today and they had a bunch of sales going on. Sign up for their loyalty program to save extra $. You can get ID tags made there.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Oh_Wrd on February 18, 2016, 11:16:47 AM
Check with local ordinances - you may be required to microchip.  If so, a collar is mostly unnecessary except for when going out in public and there is some actual chance of escape.  For a lead, you need at most a six foot piece of braided nylon rope - and if you want fancy you can get a clasp from the hardware store - but I usually just use a slip knot.  Extra fancy is the lightest weight lead you can find in the pet store - but make sure it does not have a massive clasp, as that can be very annoying to the dog when walking if it is always hanging down or banging up against them - which can lead to walk behavior problems.  I personally believe the retractable leads are the worst invention possible for dogs ad always reccomend people avoid them.

In most cases, the only starter toys would probably be a hard nylon bone to chew on,  and a knotted up sock (also to chew on and maybe to throw).   You may also need to buy or improvise a harness if you struggle getting your dog not to pull on the leash - as you don't want to ever be jerking on a lead fixed at their neck (windpipe and neck damage can result). 

Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: NextTime on February 18, 2016, 01:29:08 PM
Quote
collar, id tags, leash, food, treats, a few toys

We get all this at either Target or Walmart.

Don't go crazy on the toys. Our dog turned her nose up on absolutely everything but a rope. She only needs one toy.

Buy food in small bags until you figure out what works for your dog. We bought good high protein food for our dog, and she can't digest it. Vet switched her to a mass-market, grain-first food and she's much healthier now. Not the typical dog diet.


My dog ate his rope toys and they got stuck on the way back out. I then had to slowly pull them out of his ass (one was at least a foot long). I'm not sure how this didn't damage his colon.  Once I pulled it out with a paper towel and threw it on the ground and went inside to get a plastic bag to throw it in. When I came back out, it had disappeared. Yep, you guessed it, he ate it again, little bastard.

After 2 episodes of this, no more rope toys. I highly recommend you don't get them.

He was a little shit, bent on destroying any toy you put in front of him.  I bought him a $10, supposedly indestructible stuffed animal type toy once, and it didn't last 2 days.

Only thing that did last was the kong.  It took him over 2 years to eventually chew a piece off of that. Also, if you put some peanut butter inside the kong, it will keep your dog busy for an hour or so.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: BTH7117 on February 18, 2016, 03:55:50 PM
Thank you for adopting and not buying!  Post a picture if all goes well!

Target is pretty good, same with Amazon.  You could also buy the supplies but keep the tags on and the receipt until you know that's the dog for you.

I agree with the above poster, re: toys.  I have two dogs and both have a particular type of toy they like.  One likes stuffed animals that make a crinkle noise.  The other the Kong Braidz animals.

Also, can't go wrong with Kongs.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: I'm a red panda on February 18, 2016, 04:11:30 PM


My dog ate his rope toys and they got stuck on the way back out. I then had to slowly pull them out of his ass (one was at least a foot long). I'm not sure how this didn't damage his colon.  Once I pulled it out with a paper towel and threw it on the ground and went inside to get a plastic bag to throw it in. When I came back out, it had disappeared. Yep, you guessed it, he ate it again, little bastard.

After 2 episodes of this, no more rope toys. I highly recommend you don't get them.


Yep- highly depends on the dog.  Our dog has never destroyed anything. She's just not into it.  As a younger dog she went through a stuffed animal phase where she nibbled gently, but she would get upset if you shook it like you might a rope.

If my dog ate toys, a rope wouldn't be a good idea.  As is, we watch for wear and replace them every 6-12 months (they cost a dollar); but even still it's more because they are dirty- the strings are never loose.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: The_path_less_taken on February 18, 2016, 04:32:51 PM
Timeframe is essential: given a week you could get 99% of what you want off of craigslist/freecycle. Garage sales for stainless steel water bowls.

The big crates....garage sales, or rescue organizations who get them donated to them every time a dog dies.

The dollar store has some ok toys, although in many way the kid plush toys (with the plastic eyes/trim cut off) are also a great toy unless you have a dog that swallows stuff....to just tear crap up they're a buck a toy, or less if you go now for anything Valentine-y.

A thrift store blanket washed and folded makes a great bed and easier to clean for a puppy/young dog.

Costco dog beds and food are usually cheaper than Petco unless there's a sale or some coupons. Costco seems to be the best place for high quality food, pricewise.

Congrats on your new best friend!
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: onlykelsey on February 18, 2016, 04:48:44 PM
It sounds like you could probably go ahead adn buy water bowls (unless you're looking at a great dane but open to a chihuahua) now cheaply online or on craiglist.  In the beginning I think a folded blanket is fine for a bed.

I think you really just need to buy a collar and tags for when they come home, assuming you have some old blankets hanging around (side note: I would advocate not inviting your dog on to furniture. you can change your mind and allow him up there later, but if you let them up there at first, hard to go back).  They don't need toys on the first day, and honestly, my dog never got in to them.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: The_path_less_taken on February 18, 2016, 05:03:37 PM
Just remembered: If your dog is smaller (under 50lbs) then Ross has pretty cheap supplies, even dishes/beds.

Never see cool stuff for really big dogs there though.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: onlykelsey on February 18, 2016, 05:07:36 PM
Quote
Just remembered: If your dog is smaller (under 50lbs) then Ross has pretty cheap supplies, even dishes/beds.

Yes!  That is a good point.  I have a giant breed, so there's never anything, but discount and dollar and even grocery stores have stuff for smaller dogs. 

If you're getting a medium or larger dog, I'd consider investing in a nice collar tailored to their size or needs, even if it means you start with a throwaway one.  My rescue dog came with a ~80 dollar martingale collar (covered with butterflies) 7 years ago, and I still use it. Lifetime warranty, great craftsmanship, etc.    It probably matters less if your dog is smaller/better behaved on walks than mine.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: SeanMC on February 18, 2016, 07:23:03 PM
Craiglist for crates.

Amazon for kongs and toys (start very basic until you know what your dog will play with and not destroy - one ball, one rope toy, one nylabone). Price difference between online and petstore is significant.

ID tag - petco or similar store.

Cheap collar at petco, dollarstore, etc. until you can order a better one that is appropriate for your dog (I like ones that are reflective & have my phone # stitched in but that's a special order item that you need to know dog neck size for).

Buy one GOOD leash. I like online for more options that local petstore.

Food - Costco/Kirkland is prob best value for ok quality.

Don't bother buying treats until you know your dog size. You can use cheese, hot dogs, whatever for high value reward or treat at first anyway.

Wait for bed or mat - you can get cheap ones at pet chain store, costco, other discount stores (tj maxx/marshalls/ross) or online.

Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: horsepoor on February 18, 2016, 08:13:36 PM
Ditto Ross, TJMaxx, Big Lots for toys, leashes, dishes etc. 

Also, Lupine leashes are really nice.  I have a couple 4' leashes, and the handles are perfect so I can just run  it up my arm and it will stay put when I'm running with my dog.  Plus they have cool patterns.

We do Costco dog food, which is great quality for the price.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: FrugalZony on February 18, 2016, 08:40:36 PM
Make sure you take your adoption papers to both Petco and Petsmart.
Both have coupon booklets for new pet parents.

Not sure what the 2016 ones have, but usually there are coupons for a first free bag of food another one 50% off
deals on obdience classes, crates, toys etc.

Between those two booklets you should be able to get a lot of items for very little out of pocket.
Petco also used to give you a 5 off $25 in purchases coupon. Not sure if they still do that.

In the past I used to be able to walk out of Petco with bags full of stuff for just tax.

Also watch out for the Petco Calendars, they are $15 (donation that goes to pet charities) and have a ton of coupons in them
for free toys, treats etc. Plus high value store coupons off of food that can be stacked with manufacturer coupons.


other than than I second the idea of spreading the word to see if others may have stuff they are willing to pass on or let you borrow
and check CL and the pet rescue thriftstores for items.

Congratulations on the new family member and thank you for adopting!
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: bobechs on February 18, 2016, 08:45:18 PM
Get a cat too.

Dogs need protein.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: SeattleStache on February 19, 2016, 06:34:07 AM
Most dogs love to "dissect" which you can facilitate by giving them stuffed animals to destroy. My trainer recommended getting them cheap from Goodwill. Just make sure to cut out any hard pieces they could swallow such as eyes, etc. I usually wash mine first too before giving them to my dog. Just make sure they are supervised while playing with them in case they try to actually eat part of it. I can re-stuff them quite a few times before they are completely destroyed. Much less expensive than purchasing toys new from a pet store. I also feed her with kong-type toys. She's a herding dog and often times working breed dogs need a "job" to keep their minds busy and challenged.

I've had my rescue dog for 7 years and really her biggest needs are daily exercise and to hang out with me. I've used a Wonder Walker https://www.wonderwalkerbodyhalter.com/ which helps if your dog pulls. She just walks on a loose leash next to me now but I still use the same harness I got when I first brought her home. Another good cost savings is to buy poop bags in bulk. I place a big order of the biodegradable ones from Amazon once a year or so.

Most local, independent pet food stores will help you find a brand of food that works best for your dog and will take back something that doesn't agree with your pet. I tend to avoid stores that sell live animals but that's a personal choice.

Have fun!
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: NestEggChick (formerly PFgal) on February 19, 2016, 06:51:24 PM
Oh wow, thank you all so much! These are fantastic tips! There's a PetSmart near me that I stop into sometimes (just so I can pet the dogs that people bring in with them as they shop :) ) but I'll definitely check out the closest Petco, and also Target and the other places you mentioned. I won't get more than 1 or 2 toys, and I'm sure my parents will get another 1 or 2 (they're excited for their grandpup!)

I guess it's time to start looking around on Craigslist to see what my crate options will be :) Thanks again! And if you have more ideas, please add them. I'm happy to learn!
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Larabeth on February 19, 2016, 07:07:52 PM
Make sure to be CAREFUL with toys... I wasted so much on toys and all my two care for are Kongs and antlers. =)
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Lski'stash on February 21, 2016, 05:15:59 PM
Petflow.com

Another member suggested this website to me on another forum. They have everything at prices that are hard to beat.

Really, dogs need good food (see dogfoodadvisor.com), lots of excersise, training (see Sofia Yens Perfect Puppy in Seven Days), and a few good toys and they are set. I would suggest crate training as well, and a couple of good chews when you need a minute to yourself!

Also, I have a mushroom treat toy (http://www.amazon.com/PetSafe-Buddy-Mushroom-Dispensing-Medium/dp/B00520EJXW (http://www.amazon.com/PetSafe-Buddy-Mushroom-Dispensing-Medium/dp/B00520EJXW)) for my corgi. It is AWESOME.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: flyfig on February 21, 2016, 05:37:11 PM
I would echo the sentiment to not go nuts on stuff- take the time to figure out what he or she likes. If you have pet owner friends or family- borrow toys and training item to see if they are a good fit.

If you are at all crafty, you can easily make nice dog beds. I used a twin extra long memory foam topper and made three nice foam beds for my dog and covered it with leftover outdoor fabric. Old towels and blankets make up the filling. She threw up on one and it wasn't a big deal.

Also echo the sentiment to get high quality food and treats. My fosters all do better when I;ve switched them from supermarket kibble to high quality kibble and treats- shiny coats, no itching, no dandruff, better energy levels.

Buy a good quality nail clipper and toothpaste/brush combo for your dog. One of my fosters had several rotten teeth and she was only 3 years old.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Larabeth on February 21, 2016, 05:38:29 PM
http://www.michiganantlerart.com/

I use these guys for antler chews... they're fairly priced and the antlers are better than anything I've ever bought in the pet store. 
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: BikeFanatic on February 21, 2016, 05:51:06 PM
I recommend Walgreen for Puppy training pads (AKA wee wee pads) That is if you get a small breed dog like a chihuahuas.
the pads are small and they are the best price I have found esp when they go on sale which is every other week.
Nix that if you get a big dog though.

I like the Pet Caberette in Roslindale they give you samples of dog food until you get the one your pooch loves.
Also What is the Boston group?
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: NestEggChick (formerly PFgal) on February 22, 2016, 09:09:41 AM
This is all fantastic! Now I just have to figure out what a "good" dog food is.

BikeFanatic, here's the Boston group: http://forum.mrmoneymustache.com/meetups-and-social-events/boston/
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: BTH7117 on February 23, 2016, 12:01:55 PM
This is all fantastic! Now I just have to figure out what a "good" dog food is.

I am a big believer in Blue Buffalo, which can be purchased on Amazon a bit cheaper than the brick-and-mortars IMO.  Our dog has allergies (which took us nearly a year a 2 different vets to determine), and Blue Buffalo has really helped him.  Very high quality stuff for kibble.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Cassie on February 23, 2016, 12:40:14 PM
Petedge is online and they sell to groomers,etc so nothing is sold at retail cost. I have gotten stuff there really cheap.  You do not have to be a professional to buy (they sell to the public) so nothing is cheaper unless of course CL.   
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: flyfig on February 27, 2016, 11:15:00 PM
General rule- the best food you can feed your dog is a raw diet (raw food, e.g., Primal, Small Batch, Stella and Chewy's, Origen raw, K9 natural, etc). This is balanced and complete with muscle meat, organs, ground bone, a small % of veggies and fruit and additional minerals and vitamins. Typically 40% - 95% protein, with the lower % for freeze dried options. Tons of benefits but can be pricey, especially for a larger dog.

After that, it's a question of what kibble or canned food you want to use. There are a lot of brands at a lot of price points so a few watchouts. There are 3 general steps- 1. quality of the starch binder, 2. quality of the meat and 3. quantity of the meat. And of course, what price point fits in with your budget.

All kibble need some starch (in the form of grain, beans, veggies, etc) to make the meat into kibble form. Some dogs can't process various starches. Grain and corn seem common allergies, some dogs are allergic to soy or tapocia and a few are allergic to potato. I have yet to see a dog allergic to legumes (chickpeas, lentils, etc).

All ingredient panels are listed in order of weight before the mixing and cooking process so a higher quality kibble should have meat or a meal as the first and second and maybe third ingredients (e.g., chicken or chicken meal, duck meal, salmon, beef, lamb meal, fish meal). Chicken, beef, duck meal is just cooked meat and bones ground up which is fine as this is quality controlled. Unspecified By-product (e.g., by product versus poultry by product) can be dangerous since you don't know what animals are in there (roadkill?, diseased animals).

Lastly, you'll see a Guaranteed Analysis panel that lists % protein, fat, fiber and moisture. Kibble will range from 20(ish)% to 35(ish)% protein. You generally want a higher % protein (dogs eat meat and not starch) although some would argue that kidney compromised dogs would benefit from a low % protein diet. A high % protein rating plus lots of meat listed first in the ingredient panel means your protein is coming from meat products versus other sources (corn gluten, etc).

You may be tempted to calculate cost per pound of kibble but a more accurate calculation is cost per feeding since the same sized dog can have different recommended feeding guidelines. Pain in the butt to do. Generally higher quality kibble will need to you feed less to get the same nutrition.

Every dog is different and their dietary requirements will change over time. What works for one person may not work for you therefore there isn't really a "best". And most people will do a mix of feedings (e.g., kibble plus raw, kibble only, canned only, etc). At the end of the day, the fact that you care and make thoughtful decisions means you can't do wrong by your pet. Dogfood Advisor website is a good resource.

My 60lb foster pitty gets a high quality kibble, plus supplements with raw frozen meats, chicken or turkey parts, marrow bones, raw veggies and fun things like coconut oil. The last 2 fosters have gotten this diet and have made dramatic improvements which was necessary as they were straight from the shelter where they got supermarket quality kibble/Walmart kibble and did not do as well as others on that food.

Hope you find this helpful. =)
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Midcenturymater on February 27, 2016, 11:36:11 PM
Ahhh..you have some lovely times ahead. We flustered in January and it is just lively having a dog.

Lots of good tips on here....get that coupon book for Percocet. Saved us about $100 on food a bed etc.


We got two crates on a local fb selling group. Free.

If you are in fb search for local selling groups and ask if anyone is getting rid of dog supplies. Craigslist. Look in free first then pets.  Often people get rid of a job lot of stuff when they no longer have their pet.

Finally check your local humane society. Our local one does very reasonable priced vaccinations. They also soay certain breeds at no charge. Our spay was covered by the rescue who we gave a donation to.


My last tip.

Get the flea stuff for the largest dog. Same price as for small dig but you get a lot more and then you just adjust the amount that you use depending on the weight.

Rite aid has introduced a $1 section. Loads of dog stuff. We got brush, poop bag carrier that latches onto the lead, rope toy...all just $1 each.

We picked up a doggy pen for $10 at a yard sale. Thrift shop for bowls etc.

Save your money for the possible vet bills one day.
Enjoy the wonderful experience of bringing home a dog for keeps.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Midcenturymater on February 27, 2016, 11:37:18 PM
We did fluster a little in January.
We also adopted a dog.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 28, 2016, 02:25:16 PM
Not trying to be snarky here, but I have never quite understood the dog bed thing.  My present dog is my 3rd dog, and my parents had dogs.  My girl can sleep any place, she can be on the living room floor, the bathroom tile, at my feet under my desk, or where-ever - why does a dog need a bed?  If you want the dog to sleep in one spot, you are most likely going to have a crate anyway (for so many reasons) so in the dog's mind that should be "bed" anyway.  My girl spends a fair bit of nap time there voluntarily, she is so cute using the door lip as a little pillow.

My essentials:
-every-day collar (i.e. buckle, easy on the coat), with name tag (name and phone number), town tag and rabies tag - the last 2 you have to actually arrange for, of course
-leash - be sure it feels nice on your hands as well as being the appropriate weight/strength for the dog
-crate - sized to fit the adult, so be sure it isn't too small - this is an essential item to me, you use it when house-training, when leaving the dog alone in the house, when the dog needs a safe place to be, etc.  The puppy can't chew an electrical cord if it is in the crate, for example.  The adult can escape the annoying little child visiting the house by heading for the crate.   In the dog's mind, crate = den/home/safe place, not crate=jail (that is human thinking, and yet we put toddlers in play pens, same idea).  Remember a smart dog is about at the level of a 2 year old child, and plan accordingly for safety.  Really smart dogs are also more likely to get into trouble, they have more curious/inventive minds.
-nail clippers (we are mustachians here, of course you will be trimming your dog's nails - hear a click on the floor, time to trim, no waiting to go to a groomer)
-grooming items - whatever is appropriate for your dog's coat
-toys - start small, see what your dog likes that you also like (mine likes retrieving balls, but after a while my elbow hurts throwing them, so we do doggie Frisbee with the soft puppy Kong brand frisbee and are both happy)
-Dog shampoo, towels etc. for the needed baths - only bathe when really necessary, brushing and combing are much more important than baths.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Bracken_Joy on February 28, 2016, 02:41:46 PM
Join your local Buy Nothing Group through FB! We have pet stuff come up all the time. Also, you can ask, and usually people are thrilled to help out a new pet owner. I gave a sweater, three toys, a leash, a harness, and a flat of food to a neighbor recently when they adopted a new dog. Us dog people are patently insane and like to bring others into the fold =D

I'll echo the "don't go overboard on stuff" sentiment. Antlers are great and hold up better than toys. I have yet to meet a dog, from chihuahuas and pugs up to boxers and great danes, who do not like antlers.

Always sign up for mailing lists and get coupons.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: SeanMC on February 28, 2016, 04:55:49 PM
Not trying to be snarky here, but I have never quite understood the dog bed thing. 

The floor is hard and cold. A lot of dogs - the vast majority - prefer lying on something soft when they aren't too hot. It's easy to tell that many dogs like having a dog bed because if you put down a bed, you can see if and when the dog chooses to use the bed (and when not).

Lying directly on a tile or hard floor can also be worse for an old dog with arthritis or other aches/pains.

Also: (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/32/82/8f/32828fac26af3297a183d958f4946ef2.jpg)
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Bracken_Joy on February 28, 2016, 05:15:11 PM
We use beds strategically to keep our dog out from under foot. Ex- kitchen. She will stand directly under where we chop. Add a bed in the corner? Tada, she stays there.

To be fair, this could be fixed through training, but we adopted her as an older stubborn dog, and she's just gotten older and stubborn-er. Love her though.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: RetiredAt63 on February 28, 2016, 06:29:11 PM
Love the picture.  I tried to find something equally cute. (edit to add, the picture attached but is tiny.  Oh well)

Mine loves cold and hard, especially in the summer (bathroom tile is best, better than kitchen).  Very often she comes to bed with me (on top of the covers, at the foot of the bed) and an hour later she is gone (crate, living room, bathroom, wherever she felt like moving to).  She does like being on the sofa, but I think that is as much to be higher and able to check everything out than to be softer.  Even when they were really old (11-15) my dogs preferred the floor. I suppose it is a breed thing.

Re getting dogs out from under foot, there is a wonderful all-purpose command called "move".  It just means, move from where you are to some place else.  Dog is lying where you are going to walk?  Say Move.  Dog is too close in the kitchen? Say Move.  It is right up there with "Leave it" and "Drop it" for utility.  Also of use is a down-stay - the dog is where you want it to be, and will stay there.  Really, Sit and Down are not that useful without the Stay attached.  So the dog sits and pops up again, not a lot accomplished.  Unless the alternative to "Sit" was to jump up on a visitor, in which case the dog was distracted and Sit did its job.  Sorry, got distracted there.  But after getting all the physical things for a new dog/puppy, the next thing to do should be basic obedience classes.  So useful in so many ways.

Not trying to be snarky here, but I have never quite understood the dog bed thing. 

The floor is hard and cold. A lot of dogs - the vast majority - prefer lying on something soft when they aren't too hot. It's easy to tell that many dogs like having a dog bed because if you put down a bed, you can see if and when the dog chooses to use the bed (and when not).

Lying directly on a tile or hard floor can also be worse for an old dog with arthritis or other aches/pains.

Also: (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/32/82/8f/32828fac26af3297a183d958f4946ef2.jpg)
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: Bracken_Joy on February 28, 2016, 07:09:57 PM
Love the picture.  I tried to find something equally cute. (edit to add, the picture attached but is tiny.  Oh well)

Mine loves cold and hard, especially in the summer (bathroom tile is best, better than kitchen).  Very often she comes to bed with me (on top of the covers, at the foot of the bed) and an hour later she is gone (crate, living room, bathroom, wherever she felt like moving to).  She does like being on the sofa, but I think that is as much to be higher and able to check everything out than to be softer.  Even when they were really old (11-15) my dogs preferred the floor. I suppose it is a breed thing.

Re getting dogs out from under foot, there is a wonderful all-purpose command called "move".  It just means, move from where you are to some place else.  Dog is lying where you are going to walk?  Say Move.  Dog is too close in the kitchen? Say Move.  It is right up there with "Leave it" and "Drop it" for utility.  Also of use is a down-stay - the dog is where you want it to be, and will stay there.  Really, Sit and Down are not that useful without the Stay attached.  So the dog sits and pops up again, not a lot accomplished.  Unless the alternative to "Sit" was to jump up on a visitor, in which case the dog was distracted and Sit did its job.  Sorry, got distracted there.  But after getting all the physical things for a new dog/puppy, the next thing to do should be basic obedience classes.  So useful in so many ways.

Not trying to be snarky here, but I have never quite understood the dog bed thing. 

The floor is hard and cold. A lot of dogs - the vast majority - prefer lying on something soft when they aren't too hot. It's easy to tell that many dogs like having a dog bed because if you put down a bed, you can see if and when the dog chooses to use the bed (and when not).

Lying directly on a tile or hard floor can also be worse for an old dog with arthritis or other aches/pains.

Also: (https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/564x/32/82/8f/32828fac26af3297a183d958f4946ef2.jpg)

Oh yes, relevant and forgot to mention: in addition to stubborn, Old Miss is deaf. And slightly blind, although I remain uncertain whether it is purposely selective blindness haha.

I have had other dogs. They were much better behaved!
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: horsepoor on May 25, 2016, 10:01:24 PM
My dogs definitely prefer to sleep on beds unless it's hot.  CostCo has good large dog beds for pretty cheap ($30ish?).  The covers can be pulled off and washed, which is preferable to creating a dirty spot on the carpet if dog always lays in one place.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 26, 2016, 09:00:31 AM
I've never had a dog bed for my dog, but if it is too hot to sleep on the bed, wouldn't the dog bed be hot as well?  Missy moves around so no one place gets dirty (except her crate, and it is easily washed), and I have no rugs anyway, except entry mats to catch outside dirt, because - dog fur.

My dogs definitely prefer to sleep on beds unless it's hot.  CostCo has good large dog beds for pretty cheap ($30ish?).  The covers can be pulled off and washed, which is preferable to creating a dirty spot on the carpet if dog always lays in one place.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: onlykelsey on May 26, 2016, 09:11:09 AM
I've never had a dog bed for my dog, but if it is too hot to sleep on the bed, wouldn't the dog bed be hot as well?  Missy moves around so no one place gets dirty (except her crate, and it is easily washed), and I have no rugs anyway, except entry mats to catch outside dirt, because - dog fur.

My dogs definitely prefer to sleep on beds unless it's hot.  CostCo has good large dog beds for pretty cheap ($30ish?).  The covers can be pulled off and washed, which is preferable to creating a dirty spot on the carpet if dog always lays in one place.

I love dog beds, but I have a giant dog who I don't allow on furniture.  It sort of contains his filth, since he spends most of his time lying there.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: DeltaBond on May 26, 2016, 10:36:03 AM
I get a lot of my supplies at Tractor Supply, they are the cheapest, but they don't have a large assortment.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: horsepoor on May 26, 2016, 09:42:22 PM
I've never had a dog bed for my dog, but if it is too hot to sleep on the bed, wouldn't the dog bed be hot as well?  Missy moves around so no one place gets dirty (except her crate, and it is easily washed), and I have no rugs anyway, except entry mats to catch outside dirt, because - dog fur.

My dogs definitely prefer to sleep on beds unless it's hot.  CostCo has good large dog beds for pretty cheap ($30ish?).  The covers can be pulled off and washed, which is preferable to creating a dirty spot on the carpet if dog always lays in one place.

That's what I meant - they don't sleep on the dog beds when it's too hot, but 80% of the time they prefer the dog beds over the floor.  Dog doesn't sleep in the people bed, except for a bit of time in the morning.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: RetiredAt63 on May 28, 2016, 05:39:08 AM
Ah, gotcha, beds  = dog beds, not people beds.

Missy prefers tile to wood and wood to entry floor mat, so hard doesn't seem to be an issue with her.  She just wants cool.

I've never had a dog bed for my dog, but if it is too hot to sleep on the bed, wouldn't the dog bed be hot as well?  Missy moves around so no one place gets dirty (except her crate, and it is easily washed), and I have no rugs anyway, except entry mats to catch outside dirt, because - dog fur.

My dogs definitely prefer to sleep on beds unless it's hot.  CostCo has good large dog beds for pretty cheap ($30ish?).  The covers can be pulled off and washed, which is preferable to creating a dirty spot on the carpet if dog always lays in one place.

That's what I meant - they don't sleep on the dog beds when it's too hot, but 80% of the time they prefer the dog beds over the floor.  Dog doesn't sleep in the people bed, except for a bit of time in the morning.
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: MrsPete on May 29, 2016, 10:10:57 AM
I assume you have an idea of the size of dog you plan to buy?  I'd say go ahead and pick up a leash, bed, etc. in the size you expect -- but keep the receipts and tags intact -- and then IF you fall for a dog of a different size (or a different age), exchange them. 

We didn't realize we were going to find our dog so fast.  We had purchased a bed and food dishes, but nothing else -- so we ended up taking him straight from the rescue place straight to the pet store because we were using only the rope they gave us.  Not so good.  He was already scared, and that trip made him even more frightened. 

Yes to going with a small bag of food.  Our fellow has a delicate tummy, and we went through a couple trials before settling on something that works for him.  I foolishly bought a giant bag to start with, and I ended up donating it to a shelter -- not the worst thing in the world, but I could've been smarter. 

Yes to dog beds.  Sure, if you don't provide a bed, the dog will sleep somewhere -- but if you do provide a bed, it'll be the space of your choice.

Our dog LOVES toys and plays with them frequently -- either with us or without us.  He'll take a ball and throw it around for himself -- until he lodges it under the sofa.  He has a nice collection of toys, and we "rotate them" so he doesn't become bored with them.  He loves his Kong, and he loves a long thin no-stuffing dog toy he can "fight" (he's gone through several of those, but all lasted 9 months or so), and he has a couple balls and tug-toys.  Our last dog was too stupid to play with toys (didn't stop her from being a great dog), but this fellow loved toys from the day we brought him home. 
Title: Re: Where to get initial dog supplies?
Post by: frugi on May 29, 2016, 11:42:24 AM
We adopted a rescue dog 3 months ago!  If you've got an Ocean State Job Lot near you check it out for crates, leashes etc.  Great prices on the basics.  My 45 lb, 8 mo. old hound is doing very well on Costco's Nature's Domain brand dry food.  And if your pup turns out to be a chewer like mine... we found that a rubber backed indoor outdoor rug from home depot- arrayed over the remains of her shamefully expensive ballistic nylon crate pad- has made a comfy and chew proof crate pad. 

Good luck!