10 Must-Have Accessories For New Pet Owners

Adopting a new dog can be a big change in your lifestyle. Maybe it’s been a while. Maybe it’s all brand new. Either way, suddenly there’s this loving creature looking at you like you’re in charge. It’s exciting. Also, a little chaotic. Grab the basics early, or you’ll be scrambling by week two.

Not sure what to get? Here are ten essentials worth picking up before your new furry friend joins the household.

1. A Sturdy and Comfortable Pet Bed

Your pet needs a place to crash. Your couch isn’t the long-term plan—grab a soft, durable bed that can take some mess. If it’s going to survive muddy paws and the rest, it better wash up easily. A bed with a removable machine-washable cover saves you the stress of cleaning.

Nervous pups tend to curl up tight, so beds with raised edges help. Older pets? Memory foam will go a long way in relieving pressure on the joints. 

2. Bowls That Stay Put and Clean

It’s tempting to buy the cheapest water and food bowls you see. But you’ll regret it. Skip the plastic. It scratches easily, harbors bacteria, and will start smelling weird after about a week. 

Stainless steel and ceramic bowls are a solid choice — they’re hygienic, dishwasher safe, and durable. Some even come with rubber grips at the bottom to keep enthusiastic eaters from pushing the food halfway across the kitchen floor.

3. A Properly Fitted and Durable Collar

Pick a durable dog collar that’s tough enough for rough play and doesn’t loosen over time. Nylon’s a solid choice for that. Fit matters too—it should stay put without digging in. If your dog’s still growing, make sure there’s room to tweak the size. 

Toss on a tag with your contact. A microchips is a must as well, but a visible ID speeds up reuniting if your pup gets loose.

4. A Standard Leash

Those leashes that roll out? They’re not great if your dog’s still learning. The cord gets caught, and it’s tough to reel them in when something suddenly grabs their attention. A solid nylon leash—nothing too long—is easier to manage. It gives you a steady hold and makes walks easier to manage while your dog gets the hang of things.

5. Chew Toys and Interactive Playthings

A bored pet can become destructive very fast. So, unless you want it to be your shoes, clothes, or furniture, get your pet suitable toys and playthings that’ll keep them stimulated. 

For younger pets, rubbery chew toys or soft ropes are helpful, especially when they’re teething. For older aggressive players, go for heavy-duty options that don’t break apart easily. Some dogs tear through toys. Others lose interest fast. Try giving them puzzles or textured toys that make them work a little. 

6. Grooming Tools—Even for the Short-Haired Crowd

Short fur doesn’t mean no maintenance. Dust, loose fur, and the occasional mat still show up. A brush every few days keeps their coat in shape. It also lets you catch anything odd—like a rash or a tick—before it gets worse. At the very least, have a slicker brush, nail clippers, and pet shampoo. Wipes or waterless options come in handy between full baths.

7. Pads and Cleaners for Accidents

Training pads help during the early weeks, especially if your dog isn’t going outside yet. Go for ones that lock in moisture and keep the smell down. 

But more importantly, get an enzyme-based cleaner. It’s designed to break down the proteins in pet messes that standard cleaners miss. Without it, your furry friend can smell old accidents and assume that spot’s fair game for next time.

8. Dog clothing (Useful for some, fun for most)

Not every dog needs a wardrobe, but in some cases, it really helps. Take dog coats, for example. They’re not just fashion statements. A small breed with little body fat might shiver before you’re even out the door. For them, a well-fitted coat can make cold walks more doable. Older dogs can benefit too, especially when it’s windy or damp. 

Even the fluffier ones might need a little help. A waterproof layer keeps the mess down on wet days, and boots are useful for sharp gravel or scorching pavement. Just make sure your pet’s okay wearing them—some will tolerate gear, others won’t have it. Watch how yours reacts, and skip anything that causes stress. Clothing should be about function first, fun second.

9. A Crate 

Some pets like having a corner they can disappear into. A crate helps with that. A properly sized, well-ventilated crate gives your pet a sense of security. You can just leave the door open, toss in something soft, and forget about it. Odds are, your pet will wander in when they’re ready. No pressure, no training plan—just their own space when they want it.

10. Waste Bags and a Good Scoop

As for cleanups, waste bags are a must. Keep a roll of waste bags by the door and a spare in your bag or glove compartment. When it comes to scoops, solid handles and a deep scoop tray save time. Flimsy ones tend to snap right when you need them most.

Conclusion

Bringing a new pet home is rarely quiet. It’s messy, funny, and a bit chaotic—but also one of the best things you’ll do. The essentials help, of course. A comfy bed, a leash that works, a collar that holds—those are good places to start.

No need to rush the rest. See what your pet actually uses. Notice what they like. Adjust from there. You’re already paying attention, and that counts for more than anything you can buy.