Bedding

Your dog needs a comfortable bed, so buy a bed big enough for it stretch out in. There are many types of good bedding for your dog.

Most dogs love snuggling into a piece of ‘vetbed’ or similar. This is a synthetic simulated sheepskin, which is hygienic, machine washable, totally nonallergic and relatively resistant to chewing. It can also help to prevent pressure sores on bigger dogs. Buy two pieces so you use one while washing and drying the other.

You can order dog beds from the Crufts Petcare website.

Collars

Choose a comfortable collar that is suitable for the breed, size and age of dog. It should not be so loose that they can slip over your dog’s head or so tight that you cannot slip two fingers underneath.

Collars can be ordered from the Crufts Petcare website.

Identity Disc

You are required by law (The Control of Dogs Order 1992) to inscribe the name and address of the owner on the collar or on a plate or disc attached to it. You must comply with this, even if it is microchipped, and you can be fined up to £5,000 if you do not. You may also want to put your telephone numbers on the tag, but you do not need to put your dog's name on it. Engraved discs (which you can order from the Kennel Club Online Shop) are better than barrel types, which often undo and lose their contents. You do not need to buy a dog licence any more.

Microchipping

It makes complete sense to have your dog microchipped as an extra safety precaution, so that if it is lost or stolen, when found (without its collar) it can be scanned by an authorised agent such as a vet, dog warden or rescue centre. If you have registered your dog’s microchip with Petlog  (this can be done at time of implantation), the microchip number can then be quickly matched up with your records on the Petlog database. The after care services of a reliable database are vital in the reunification process. Petlog is the largest pet reunification service in the UK and exists to support responsible pet ownership and the welfare of the dog.

Leads

Choose a lead that is suitable for the size and breed of your dog, not too long, too short or too heavy. A good rope lead is both strong and comfortable on your hands. Chain leads can hurt your hands, but may be useful if you have a dog that likes to chew or carry its lead in its mouth. Nylon leads are strong, but can hurt your hands. Whatever type you choose, make sure you attach it to the ‘D ring’ of the collar and not onto the split ring that attaches the identity disc to the collar, as this is not strong enough to take the weight of your dog.

Many people still prefer the traditional leather lead which requires to be oiled or saddle soaped to be kept clean and supple. Particular attention should be paid to the catch/ clip which must be strong and not liable to break or straighten.

Dog leads can be ordered from the Crufts Petcare website.

Poo Bags

You are required by law (Clean Neighbourhoods & Environment Act 2005) to clear up after your dog in public areas and dispose of the bag in an appropriate bin, so you will need a supply of poo bags, sandwich bags or nappy sacks to take with you whenever you are out with your dog.

Food and water bowls

You will need separate (non-tip) bowls for water and food. These should be raised up off the floor for tall dogs. Make sure fresh water is always available for your dog.

Bowls can be ordered from the Crufts Petcare website.

Car harness, traveling crate or dog guard

Your dog should travel either behind a dog guard, secured with a car seat harness or, ideally, in a crate or fixed car cage. A crate or cage gives a dog its own space and ensures both safety and comfort. If you have space for a crate then this provides a safe haven for your dog in the car. There is nothing worse than seeing a dog squashed in a car with luggage piled up around it.

Grooming equipment

Short coated dogs need to be groomed regularly, especially when they are moulting as their short hairs get can get stuck into everything! Use a rubber toothed brush or a short bristle brush, which massages the skin and works out the loose hair.

Dogs with medium to long coats or thick undercoats need gentle de-tangling every day to keep them knot free. The main problem areas that need the most attention tend to be behind the ears, between the toes, under the feet, in the armpits, the backs of the legs and around the tail. Some dogs will need to have their beards or hair around their eyes cleaned regularly.

If you are not showing your dog you may wish to trim these areas back. However, use round ended scissors so that you do not accidentally stab your dog, and get someone to help you if your dog will not stand still, otherwise ask your groomer to do this for you.

If you intend to exhibit your dog in the show ring it may need to have its coat trimmed into a special shape, or need handstripping or clipping. Your breeder, groomer, ringcraft class or breed club can advise you on the best way to achieve this. They can also advise you on the best type of brushes and combs to use. Contact details for your breed club can be found on the Breed Standard pages of the website.

Always brush your dog slowly and gently. Gradually introduce the concept of grooming in very short sessions. If your dog tries to bite the brush, put some taste deterrent on the brush so it learns not to bother.

Some dogs will need to have their nails trimmed if they get too long. If your dog has dew-claws (like little thumbs on the inside of its ‘wrists’) they should be checked frequently as these do not get worn down naturally and can grow in a circle and cut into the flesh. You can learn to trim the nails yourself or have a vet or groomer do it for you.

White dogs and those with sparse coats in particular can be susceptible to sun burn so use a high factor sun cream on their ears and other exposed areas in hot sunny weather.

Grooming equipment can be ordered from the Kennel Club Online Shop and the Crufts Petcare website

Doggy toothpaste and toothbrush

Gum disease is far too common in middle-aged dogs and can lead to all sorts of health problems, so it pays to brush your dog’s teeth. Use special canine toothpaste, which comes in tasty flavours and does not foam (unlike human toothpaste) with a special rubber thimble for dogs’ teeth.

Dog shampoo

Dogs only need to be bathed every few months unless they have been swimming or have rolled in something smelly. Use a dog shampoo and put a non-slip mat down if using the bath. Towel drying your dog is important and will get it used to being dried when it comes home wet from a walk.

Outdoor kennels and dog runs

Dogs are sociable animals and most of them prefer to live indoors, and can get pretty miserable if left outside. However, if your dog spends most of its time outside, then you need to provide it with an enclosed run and a specially designed kennel, or it will wreck your garden. Providing toys is particularly important if your dog is left alone for periods of time. They can be useful in providing a space for the dog to call its own.  It will also allow the dog to become less reliant on constant companionship and avoid separation anxiety in the future.

Clothing

Some short coated or recently clipped dogs really feel the cold, so may benefit from wearing a fitted jumper or coat when out on walks. Some long coated dogs may benefit from protective clothing to keep them clean and dry in winter weather. Make sure it fits properly and is well tolerated by your dog. Never make your dog wear clothes indoors.

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