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!
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″
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.
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 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.