Dogs Must Haves: The Ultimate Checklist for 2025
Quick Answer: Essential Dogs Must Haves
Every dog needs seven core categories of supplies: containment (crate or exercise pen), feeding essentials (bowls and quality food), identification (collar with ID tags), leash and harness for safety, grooming tools matched to coat type, comfort items (bed and toys), and health supplies (first aid kit and cleaning products). Start with these fundamentals, then add specialized gear based on your dog's age, breed, and lifestyle.
Key Takeaways
- Every dog requires seven core categories of supplies to ensure their well-being.
- Containment options like crates or exercise pens are essential for safety and security.
- Feeding essentials include bowls and high-quality food tailored to your dog's needs.
- Identification through collars with ID tags is crucial for your dog's safety.
- Grooming tools, comfort items, and health supplies should be selected based on your dog's specific characteristics.
Table of Contents
- Why the Right Gear Changes Everything
- Core Containment: Creating Safe Spaces
- Feeding and Hydration Fundamentals
- Identification and Leash Safety Essentials
- Grooming and Cleaning Supplies
- Training and Enrichment Tools
- Health and Safety Essentials
- Seasonal and Lifestyle Accessories
- Technology and Modern Conveniences
- Building Your Complete Kit
Why the Right Gear Changes Everything
Dogs don't overthink their needs—they want safety, comfort, and connection with their pack. This natural simplicity offers us a clear roadmap: the right dogs must haves aren't about spoiling your pup, they're about meeting fundamental needs that help both of you thrive.
Whether you're welcoming a wiggling puppy or adopting a senior dog, being well-equipped transforms those first crucial weeks from chaotic to confident. The difference between scrambling for supplies at midnight and having everything ready? Your dog settles faster, training progresses smoother, and you spend more time bonding instead of shopping.
Research from the American Pet Products Association shows that 69% of U.S. households include a dog—and those prepared families report significantly less stress during the adjustment period. Smart preparation isn't just practical; it's the foundation for years of adventure together.
Core Containment: Creating Safe Spaces
Every dog needs a designated safe space—somewhere they can retreat, relax, and feel secure. This isn't about confinement; it's about providing the den-like environment that appeals to their natural instincts.
Choosing the Right Crate
A quality crate serves triple duty: housetraining tool, travel companion, and personal sanctuary. Size matters here—your dog should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that puppies treat one corner as a bathroom.
Wire Crates
- Maximum ventilation and visibility
- Collapsible for easy storage
- Often include divider panels for growing puppies
- Easy to clean and maintain
Plastic Crates
- More den-like and cozy for anxious dogs
- Required for airline travel
- Better sound dampening
- More durable for heavy chewers
Exercise Pens: Supervised Freedom
Exercise pens bridge the gap between full freedom and crate confinement. They're particularly valuable for puppies who need safe play space while you're working from home, or for senior dogs who benefit from gentle movement within boundaries.
Look for adjustable height panels (at least 24 inches for most breeds) and secure latching mechanisms. The best exercise pens fold flat for storage and can be configured into different shapes to fit your space.
Feeding and Hydration Fundamentals
Mealtime shapes your dog's daily rhythm and provides crucial bonding opportunities. The right feeding setup supports healthy digestion, prevents mess, and makes your life significantly easier.
Bowl Selection Guide
Material matters more than you might think. Stainless steel bowls resist bacteria and last for years, while ceramic options offer stability for enthusiastic eaters. Plastic bowls, though budget-friendly, can harbor bacteria in scratches and may cause contact allergies in sensitive dogs.
For size guidance, choose bowls that hold 1-2 cups of food for small dogs, 2-4 cups for medium breeds, and 4-8 cups for large breeds. Water bowls should be refreshed daily and hold enough for your dog's size—roughly one ounce of water per pound of body weight as a starting point.
For travel or outdoor adventures, collapsible dog bowls are a convenient solution that ensures your pup stays hydrated wherever you go.
Elevated Feeding Stations
Raised feeders aren't just for large breeds anymore. Dogs with neck or back issues, senior pups with arthritis, and even some medium-sized breeds benefit from elevated bowls that reduce strain during meals.
The key is proper height—your dog's neck should remain in a natural, comfortable position while eating. Too high creates as many problems as too low.
Food Storage Solutions
Proper food storage maintains freshness and prevents pest problems. Airtight containers protect kibble from moisture and oxidation, while stackable designs maximize pantry space. Look for containers with wheels if you're buying large bags—your back will thank you.
Always keep original packaging information accessible for feeding guidelines and ingredient lists. Some smart storage containers include built-in scoops and measurement markings for consistent portions.
Identification and Leash Safety Essentials
Dogs live in the moment—they don't calculate risks before chasing that fascinating squirrel or investigating an interesting scent. This natural curiosity makes proper identification and leash systems absolutely critical for their safety and your peace of mind.
Collar and ID Tag Fundamentals
A properly fitted collar with current identification serves as your dog's lifeline if they ever get separated from you. The collar should sit snugly but comfortably—you should be able to fit two fingers underneath without it being relaxed enough to slip over their head.
For ID tags, include your dog's name, your phone number, and your address. Skip cute sayings in favor of essential information that helps reunite you quickly. Stainless steel and brass tags resist fading better than aluminum, though they cost slightly more upfront.
Pro Tip: Consider a collar with ID information embroidered directly into the material. These never fall off, don't jingle during walks, and remain readable even after years of adventures.
Microchip: Your Backup Identification
Microchips provide permanent identification that can't be lost or removed. About the size of a grain of rice, they're implanted under the skin between your dog's shoulder blades during a quick veterinary procedure.
The key is keeping your contact information current in the microchip database. Nearly 40% of microchipped pets have outdated information, rendering this safety tool useless when it matters most.
Harness Versus Collar Decision
The harness versus collar debate isn't about preference—it's about matching the right tool to your dog's needs and your training goals.
Harnesses Work Best For:
- Dogs who pull consistently during walks
- Breeds with breathing issues (pugs, bulldogs)
- Dogs with neck or trachea sensitivities
- Puppies still learning leash manners
- Adventure activities like hiking or running
Collars Work Best For:
- Well-trained dogs who walk calmly
- Quick neighborhood potty breaks
- Dogs who overheat easily (better airflow)
- Training scenarios requiring quick corrections
- Everyday ID tag carrying
Leash Selection Guide
A six-foot leash offers the perfect balance of control and freedom for most situations. This length gives your dog enough space to explore while keeping them close enough for quick direction changes.
Materials matter for durability and comfort. Nylon leashes resist weather and clean easily, while leather options become more comfortable with age but require more maintenance. Avoid retractable leashes for training—they teach dogs that pulling creates more freedom.
Grooming and Cleaning Supplies
Regular grooming isn't vanity—it's health maintenance that strengthens your bond while preventing skin issues, matting, and excessive shedding throughout your home.
Brushing Tools by Coat Type
Different coat types require specific tools for effective grooming without causing discomfort.
Short coats (Labs, Beagles): Rubber grooming gloves or bristle brushes work best. These remove loose hair and distribute natural oils without irritating sensitive skin.
Medium coats (Golden Retrievers, Border Collies): Pin brushes with rounded tips handle the undercoat while slicker brushes tackle any mats or tangles.
Long coats (Afghan Hounds, Yorkies): Metal combs prevent mats from forming, while pin brushes maintain the flowing appearance. Daily brushing prevents painful matting.
Curly coats (Poodles, Doodles): Slicker brushes and metal combs work together to prevent matting. Professional grooming every 6-8 weeks maintains coat health.
Bathing Essentials
Most dogs need baths every 4-6 weeks, though active outdoor dogs might need more frequent cleaning. Use lukewarm water and dog-specific shampoo—human products can disrupt their skin's pH balance and cause irritation.
Look for shampoos matched to your dog's specific needs: hypoallergenic for sensitive skin, oatmeal-based for dry skin, or medicated formulas for specific conditions recommended by your vet.
Nail Care Basics
Overgrown nails cause discomfort and can lead to joint problems over time. Most dogs need nail trims every 3-4 weeks, though active dogs who walk on concrete may naturally wear their nails down.
Nail clippers come in two main styles: guillotine and scissor-type. Scissor-type clippers offer better control and work for all nail sizes. Nail grinders provide more gradual trimming but require patience to introduce the sound and vibration.
Training and Enrichment Tools
Dogs thrive on mental stimulation and clear communication. The right training tools make learning enjoyable for both of you while preventing destructive behaviors born from boredom.
Positive Reinforcement Supplies
Treat pouches keep rewards easily accessible during training sessions. Look for pouches with magnetic closures for quick, quiet access that doesn't interrupt your dog's focus.
Training treats should be small, soft, and irresistible. Reserve high-value treats (tiny pieces of chicken or cheese) for challenging training sessions, while using lower-value options for basic commands your dog already knows.
Mental Stimulation Toys
Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing balls transform mealtime into mental exercise. These tools slow down fast eaters while providing the problem-solving challenges that prevent destructive boredom behaviors.
Rotate toys weekly to maintain novelty and interest. A bored dog with the same three toys becomes a creative dog who redesigns your couch cushions.
For more ways to keep your pup engaged, check out our guide on exciting activities that stimulate your dog's mind.
Chew Toy Selection
Appropriate chew toys satisfy natural chewing instincts while protecting your belongings. The key is matching hardness to your dog's chewing style and age.
Puppies need softer options that won't damage developing teeth, while power chewers require durable materials that won't splinter or break into dangerous pieces. Natural options like bully sticks provide long-lasting entertainment, though supervision remains important.
Health and Safety Essentials
Dogs explore the world with boundless curiosity, which means accidents and minor injuries happen despite our best prevention efforts. Being prepared with the right health and safety supplies can make the difference between a minor incident and a veterinary emergency.
First Aid Kit Components
A well-stocked pet first aid kit handles common injuries until you can reach professional veterinary care. Essential items include gauze pads and wrap for wound coverage, antiseptic wipes for cleaning cuts, and tweezers for removing splinters or debris.
Add a digital thermometer (normal dog temperature ranges from 101-102.5°F), instant cold packs for swelling, and emergency contact numbers including your vet, nearest emergency clinic, and pet poison control hotline.
The Rubyloo Pet First Aid Kit includes vet-recommended supplies organized in a portable case that travels easily in your car or backpack for adventures.
Travel Safety Gear
Unrestrained dogs in vehicles cause thousands of accidents annually. Car harnesses, seat belts, or secured carriers protect both your dog and human passengers during sudden stops or collisions.
For air travel, invest in an airline-approved carrier that meets specific size requirements for your chosen airline. Soft-sided carriers work for cabin travel with small dogs, while larger dogs require hard-sided crates for cargo transport.
For a complete travel solution, the Original Doggy Bag™ Dog Travel Bag for Supplies keeps all your dog's essentials organized and ready for any adventure.
Safety Alert: Never leave your dog unattended in a parked car, even with windows cracked. Interior temperatures can reach deadly levels within minutes, even on mild days.
Emergency Preparedness
Natural disasters and emergencies don't wait for convenient timing. Prepare an emergency kit with three days' worth of food and water, copies of vaccination records in waterproof storage, and recent photos of your dog for identification purposes.
Research pet-friendly evacuation shelters and hotels in your area before you need them. Many emergency shelters don't accept pets, making advance planning crucial for your family's complete safety.
For more tips on handling unexpected situations, read our guide to handling common pet emergencies.
Seasonal and Lifestyle Accessories
Your dog's needs change with seasons, weather conditions, and activity levels. The right accessories keep them comfortable and protected year-round while supporting your shared adventures.
Weather Protection Gear
Hot pavement burns paw pads faster than most owners realize. When asphalt feels too hot for your bare hand after five seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws. Protective booties allow safe summer walks on heated surfaces.
Winter brings different challenges. Ice-melting chemicals irritate paw pads, while snow balls up between toes causing discomfort. Waterproof booties with good traction prevent both issues during cold-weather walks.
Small breeds and short-coated dogs need additional warmth during winter months. Look for coats that cover the chest and belly without restricting movement or bathroom breaks.
For more on seasonal safety, see this essential supply checklist for welcoming a new pet.
Activity-Specific Accessories
Hiking adventures require different gear than neighborhood walks. Collapsible water bowls, portable food containers, and hands-free leash systems designed for trail use enhance outdoor experiences for both of you.
The Rubyloo Dog Travel Bag organizes all adventure essentials in airline-ready convenience, whether you're heading to the local park or across the country.
Swimming activities need their own considerations. Not all dogs are natural swimmers, regardless of breed stereotypes. Canine life jackets provide buoyancy and visibility during water adventures, plus convenient handles for lifting assistance.
Technology and Modern Conveniences
Smart technology can enhance your dog's care while providing peace of mind during busy schedules or travel. These tools supplement, rather than replace, personal attention and care.
Monitoring and Feeding Systems
Automatic feeders maintain consistent meal schedules even when work runs late. Look for models with portion control, multiple meal programming, and backup power sources to prevent missed meals during outages.
Pet cameras with two-way audio allow check-ins during long work days. Some models include treat dispensers for remote interaction, though these work best for dogs who aren't destructive when unsupervised.
Health Tracking Tools
Activity monitors track exercise levels, sleep patterns, and behavioral changes that might indicate health issues before they become obvious. While not replacing veterinary care, these devices provide valuable data for health discussions with your vet.
Smart water fountains encourage increased hydration through filtered, continuously circulating water. Proper hydration supports kidney function, joint health, and overall wellbeing throughout your dog's life.
Building Your Complete Kit
Dogs are family—full stop. They deserve the same thoughtful preparation we'd provide for any family member joining our household.
Start with safety essentials: proper identification, quality food and water systems, and basic health supplies. Add comfort items like appropriate bedding and toys. Build from there based on your dog's specific needs, your lifestyle, and seasonal requirements.
Remember that the most expensive gear means nothing without the time, attention, and love that creates the bond between you and your dog. These tools simply make that journey safer, more comfortable, and more enjoyable for both of you.
Every purchase you make through Rubyloo supports our "Every Dog Should Have a Home" initiative, funding shelters and providing gear to help more dogs find their forever families. Because every dog deserves the essentials for a happy, healthy life—and every owner deserves tools that work as hard as they do.
Ready to build your complete dog essentials kit? Browse our curated collection of problem-solving gear designed by dog lovers, for dog lovers. Your adventure together starts with the right preparation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 3-3-3 rule with dogs?
The 3-3-3 rule helps you understand how your dog adjusts to a new environment. It means that for the first 3 minutes, your dog may feel overwhelmed or uncertain. After 3 hours, they start to relax and settle in. By 3 days, your dog should be feeling comfortable and more like themselves. This framework reminds you to be patient and give your dog space and time to acclimate.
What are the main things a dog needs?
Every dog needs consistent access to fresh water, a balanced diet tailored to their age and activity, and regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Safe shelter, mental stimulation through training or play, and routine veterinary care round out their essentials. Equally important are social interaction and a secure environment to thrive emotionally.
What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?
The 7 7 7 rule describes a dog's ability to learn and remember new commands. It suggests that dogs typically need about 7 repetitions of a command in 7 seconds to understand it, and after 7 days, consistent practice helps cement that behavior. This rule underscores the importance of short, focused training sessions spaced over time for effective learning.
What is the 7 second rule for dogs?
The 7 second rule refers to the critical window in training where a dog associates a behavior with a consequence or reward. To reinforce learning, you need to reward or correct your dog within 7 seconds of the behavior occurring. Acting quickly helps your dog make clear connections, making training more efficient and less confusing.
What is a 2 week shutdown dog?
A 2 week shutdown dog describes a dog that needs a full two weeks of calm, low-stimulation time to recover from stress, trauma, or major life changes like moving or adoption. During this period, the dog benefits from minimal new experiences and interactions, allowing them to decompress and rebuild trust. It’s a compassionate approach that prioritizes the dog’s emotional well-being over pushing progress.
What is the 90 10 rule dogs?
The 90 10 rule suggests that 90% of a dog’s behavior is influenced by their environment and management, while only 10% depends on direct training or commands. This means that creating a predictable, structured, and safe environment is far more impactful than relying solely on obedience training. Managing triggers and setting your dog up for success lays the groundwork for positive behavior.