The secrets to Puppy success

We have over 17 years of experience raising puppies, we’ve tested countless puppy supplies and we want to share with you!

Getting the Right Tools for the Job!

  • This page highlights some of the most important puppy essentials to help save you time and money.
  • We’ve linked all the products below to both Amazon and Chewy!

Dog Gone Smart Rugs

For Dirty Dogs!

  • One of my absolute must-have puppy products!
  • Microfiber rugs dry five times faster than regular doormats, making them perfect for active dogs.
  • Effectively removing mud, dirt, hair, and grass from paws. Built to last, these rugs feature double basting and even stitching for exceptional durability.

Puppy Enclosures

Crate – MidWest Homes for Pets

  • I recommend the Midwest iCrate or Midwest Life Stages Crate.
  • A larger crate can work from puppyhood to adulthood by using the included  wire divider to adjust the space during the crate training process.
  • Ensuring your puppy has the right amount of room—no more, no less! Read More on our FAQ page on Crate training.

Petmate Sky Kennel (Travel Crate)

  • For Pets for dogs 25 to 30 Pounds
  • Dimensions: 28 x 20.5 x 21.5 inches
  • The Sky Kennel complies with IATA standards and most airline cargo requirements.
  • Ventilation on the door, sides, and back, along with tie-down strap holes for added security.
  • Always confirm specific airline policies before flying.


MidWest Homes for Pets
Dog Exercise Pen & Playpen

  • Sometimes, puppies need to be contained to prevent accidents and keep them safe from household hazards.
  • Unlike a crate, a playpen can offer them more space to move, play, and stay engaged when you need to keep them contained during the day or when they can not be supervised. Better yet, you can use both!
  • Using a Crate and Pen Combo can also help to make the potty training process much easier!


Puppy Bed

Bedsure Calming Dog Bed

  • This plush donut dog bed is made with warm faux shag fur, and provides a very cozy, secure spot for puppies who love to curl up and gives them a sense of security.
  • My dogs LOVE these beds!

Available in four sizes:

  • X-Small: 20″ x 20″ x 6″
  • Small: 23″ x 23″ x 8″
  • Medium: 30″ x 30″ x 8″
  • Large: 36″ x 36″ x 10″

Thick & Soft – Crate Pads!

Dog Gone Smart Dirty Dog
Microfiber Cushion Pads

  • Microfiber pad with thick polysheet insert provides comfort and support for pets
  • Removable microfiber cover and water resistant liner
  • Anti-skid bottom helps keep cushion in place
  • Hidden zipper pocket helps eliminate chewing and tearing at the zipper
  • Fits inside most standard size crates perfectly

What About Puppy Pads?

Washable & Reusable Underpads!

  • If you must use potty pads, then I highly recommend you use medical quality Washable Underpads (aka incontinence pads) instead of the disposable “plastic puppy pads“.
  • More durable, washable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly.
  • 4 Pack – 36″ x 38″ – Large Absorbency Incontinence Bed Pads – Quick Drying Washable and Reusable


Cleaning Products

Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. – Stain & Odor Eliminator

  • Every Surface, Every Time: For use on carpets, floors, furniture, clothing, litter boxes, kennels, carriers, all pet living and sleeping areas—anywhere stains happen
  • Enzyme Activated: This spray contains natural enzymes that are activated on contact with odors and stains, feeding on ammonia crystals and organic matter until they are completely eliminated


Puppy Foods

Purina Pro Plan Puppy – Shredded Blend

I recommend several a few puppy food brands and Purina Pro Plan – Shredded Formulas is one of those brands and it MUST be one of their “Shredded formulas” (according to my dogs)!

  • Crunchy kibble combined with tender, shredded pieces for delicious taste and texture, and DHA from omega-rich fish oil nourishes your puppy’s brain and vision development.
  • With Grain, High-Protein


Diamond Naturals Small & Medium Breed 

  • Made by a family-owned company using quality ingredients from trusted domestic and global sources.
  • Real cage-free chicken as the #1 ingredient.
  • Smaller kibble size!
  • Omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
  • Vitamins and minerals from superfoods
  • DHA for proper brain and vision development.
  • Made without corn, wheat, artificial flavors or colors.

OurPet’s DuraPet Bowls

Stainless steel is the top choice recommended by vets. These bowls are easy to clean and sanitize, as they don’t harbor bacteria like plastic can.

  • Durable stainless-steel bowl
  • Non-slip rubber base to reduce sliding and noise.
  • Dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
  • Available in three sizes to suit any size and breed.


Chews and Treats

Bones & Chews Slim Beef Gullet Sticks

6″ Chews, case of 50!

  • A fully digestible, all-natural alternative to rawhide, perfect for teething puppies and a soothing distraction.
  • These chews are a great tool to have one hand to keep a bored, anxious, or energetic puppy entertained during crate training or travel!
  • Helps to keep teeth clean

Greenies Dental Treats – Puppy

  • I’ve always been a fan of Greenies, but they weren’t always recommended for puppies—until now!
  • Greenies Puppy are specially designed for young dogs, with a formula that’s 50% softer than the original. These veterinarian-recommended dental treats support healthy teeth and gums while being gentle on your puppy’s developing mouth.

Bil-Jac Little Jacs Small Dog Training Treats

MADE WITH REAL CHICKEN LIVER

  • Soft Training Treats are made with real chicken liver as the 1st ingredient. Resealable double zipper pouch ensures the chicken liver dog treats stay fresh.

PUPPY TRAINING TREATS

  • Use these small dog training treats as rewards while training or as snacks to show love and affection.

Recommended Vitamins

NuVet Plus K-9 Wafers – Immune System Builder

  • We highly recommend giving your puppy NuVet Plus® for the first couple years or at least while their still developing!
  • Use Nuvet Plus® as a daily vitamin to strengthens their immune systems and help with overall development.
  • At NuVet Labs® supplement provides full-spectrum nutritional support that focuses on boosting your pet’s immune system and overall health.


Groom Like a Pro!

Chris Christensen – Big G Dog – Slicker Brush

  • The “Big G” Slicker Brush is the ultimate tool for Doodle and Poodle owners, widely regarded as the gold standard by professional groomers.
  • Designed for breeds like Labradoodles, Goldendoodles, Poodles, and Bichons, this brush features an ergonomic handle and cushioned pad for gentle, effortless grooming.

The Andis Grooming Comb

7-1/2-Inch, Steel
  • This is a Must-Have Steel Comb for your Doodles Knots, Mats & Loose Hair Removal – Effective Dematting Tool, Comfortable, Lightweight, Portable & Safe for Dogs, Cats & Pets
  • The comb’s coarse and fine teeth work together to remove thick or dead fur and leave your pet’s coat soft, sleek, and shining.

Wahl Professional – Wireless Pet Clippers

  • 5-in-1 Blade easily adjusts between sizes #9, #10, #15, #30, and #40
  • Very quiet motor, great for puppies
  • Rechargeable battery, 80-minute cordless run time and 75 minute charge time.
  • Cordless and lightweight for convenience and comes in a variety of colors.
  • Excellent clipper for feet, face and finish work glides through coats quickly and efficiently.


Coastal Pet Safari Professional Dog Nail Trimmer

  • Made with high-quality stainless steel
  • Non-slip grip provides added comfort and control.
  • Features a double-bladed cutter 
  • Innovative safety stop helps reduce the risk of injury.

Ear Care Products

Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced – Ear Cleaner

  • Non-irritating solution prevents microbial action
  • Use during routine cleansing of sensitive ears
  • Removes debris and excessive wax and dries the ear canal.
  • Recommended for pets with chronic otitis externa which is chronic inflammation of a dogs external ear canal.
  • It has a low pH, so it shouldn’t interfere with other ear preparations.

Zymox – Advanced Enzymatic Ear Wipes

  • Leaves pet’s ears clean and smelling fresh
  • With aloe vera to soothe temporary redness and discomfort – suitable for sensitive skin
  • Veterinarian recommended
  • Use with or after a completed course of ZYMOX Ear Solution to manage very dirty, waxy or smelly ears

Zymox Otic Dog & Cat Ear Infection Treatment with Hydrocortisone

  • Patented LP3 Enzyme System to help clear ear exudate, 1% Hydrocortisone for itchy ears
  • Gentle, no-sting formula helps relieve painful ear issues caused by resistant germs, fungi and yeast
  • Pet ear solution, no pre-cleaning of painful ears needed
  • Relief from stubborn ear infection-causing microorganisms that form complex, irritating biofilms
  • Soothes recurrent ear infections, itching and redness
  • THE BEST!

Safe-Guard – Canine Dewormer

  • Deworming powder is effective against roundworms, hookworms, whipworms taenia tapeworms and giardia.
  • Safe for use in all dogs ages 6 weeks and older, including pregnant dogs.
  • Powder granules are easy to mix into your dog’s food.
  • Designed to be fed for 3 days in a row
  • Active Ingredient: Fenbendazole
  • 3 sizes available – depending on weight of your dog
  • Deworm your dog every 3-6 months

Puptek – Adjustable Dog Harness
Collar and Leash Set

This cost-effective set includes a walking harness, collar, and 4.9ft leash. The leash features a 360-degree rotation metal hook, and the harness has a quick-release buckle and durable double D-rings, offering convenience and durability without the need to purchase additional accessories.

Puppy Toys

Rope & Chew Toys Pack

Variety Pack, 18 count

Unbelievable Deal! I get several of these toy packs for all our puppy litters! BECAUSE THEY LOVE THEM!

  • Non-toxic rope toys, plushies, squeaky toys, treat ball, and rubber chew toys.
  • Also includes poop bag dispenser, and two rolls of poop bags.
  • Puppies can get bored with toys fast so it’s nice to have a large variety of them to keep your pup engaged and entertained

Rope & Chew Toys Pack

Variety Pack, 25 count

Another Unbelievable Toy Deal! I get several of these toy packs for all our puppy litters! BECAUSE THEY LOVE THEM!

  • Non-toxic rope toys, plushies, squeaky toys, treat ball, and rubber chew toys.
  • Also includes poop bag dispenser, and two rolls of poop bags.
  • Puppies can get bored with toys fast so it’s nice to have a large variety of them to keep your pup engaged and entertained

Plush Squeak Toys Pack

Variety Pack, 25 count

Each toy features a built-in squeaker to keep your pup engaged and entertained. These squeaky toys are perfect for sparking curiosity and playtime excitement!

  • Made of high-quality plush
  • Perfect size for the puppies and small dogs, not recommended for aggressive chewers.
  • Puppies can get bored with toys fast so it’s nice to have a large variety of them to keep your pup engaged and entertained

Sweet Sweepers Variety Pack

Variety Pack, 5 count

Dogs crave texture exploration. These adorable toys, with their mop-like appearance, ignite curiosity and play!

  • Soft Squeaky Crinkle Plush Stuffed Durable Pet Teething Chew Toys
  • Durable: This dog toy bundel is made for both big and small dogs. These chew toys are tough and provide endless entertainment
  • Value-Packed: Premium quality without the premium price. Quality playtime that won’t strain your budget

Nylabone Puppy Chew 

Toys Bundle, 4 count

Size: X-Small/Petite (4 Count)

  • Non-toxic Chicken & Bacon flavored Dog Chew
  • FREEZER TEETHING TOY – Changes color when frozen and gives pups an extra-soothing sensation
  • TEXTURED PUPPY DOG TOY – Flexible bone with gentle nubs promotes dental health
  • PUPPY CHEW WISHBONE – Features 3 exciting chewing ends to keep pups entertained

Chuckit! Indoor Fetch Ball

Variety Pack, 18 count

Great Puppy present! These toys are BIG, SOFT & STURDY and last FOREVER and I’ve purchased them over the years for friends and my own dogs!

  • Textured chenille fabric that is ideal for small dogs and puppies
  • For Small to Medium Size Dogs
  • Made with Bounceflex Core Technology for a soft bounce that’s designed for inside play
  • The perfect activity for indoor play when it’s wet or cold outside

Chuckit! Ultra Tug Dog Toy

Fetch and Dog Ball Tug Toy

Exercise, Tough Chewer, Bouncy

  • High bouncing balls that are sure to get your playful pup’s tail wagging.
  • Designed specifically for the game of fetch, you and your fur baby can “go long!”
  • Features and extra-thick rubber core and quality material that offers hours of playtime.
  • Compatible with the Chuckit! Ball Launchers for an even rowdier game of fetch.

Soccer Ball with Straps, Interactive Toys

6” Interactive Dog Toy

Give your bouncing buddy the perfect playtime toy! The SunGrow Soccer Ball Dog & Cat Toy is designed with interactive play in mind!

  • Features a lightweight, buoyant design
  • Suitable for kicking, bouncing, and throwing.
  • Specifically designed for use on land or in the water.
  • Puppies can get bored with toys fast so it’s nice to have a large variety of them to keep your pup engaged and entertained