Bringing on a new canine member of the family comes with a lot of responsibilities. The responsibility of a new dog who you’ll have to train and accommodate as they learn how to behave in your environment is a big task.

To succeed at making them a lovable and well-behaved pet, you’ll have to make sure that you have all the right elements and supplies. With enough patience and love, you’ll enjoy your new family dog for years to come as long as you make sure that you have the following items on your checklist.

Obedience Training

Your pup doesn’t come pre-programmed with a setting that stops them from peeing on the carpet or jumping on strangers. It’s your job to make sure they learn how to behave in their home and public environments.

If you don’t have a lot of time on your hands or aren’t sure you’ve got the chops, you may want to consider outsourcing the job to a trained professional. Although it certainly isn’t free, it’s worth the comfort of knowing your dog will come away well-trained and behaved.

You can rest assured knowing they won’t drag you along on their leash or potentially bite someone walking down the street.

A Crate

One of the best-proven methods to stop your dog from peeing and pooping in the house is to train them with a crate.

Since dogs instinctively won’t create waste in their sleeping quarters, a crate forces them to learn to hold it in until they go outside. Although they shouldn’t stay in the crate all the time, it’s a place for them to sleep at night during the first few months, and whenever you leave them unattended at home.

Quality Dog Food

Rather than giving your dog whatever cheap food you find on the bottom shelf at the store, buy high-quality food made with fresh ingredients. Not only will your dog live a happier and healthier life, but their poop will be much less foul, which let’s face it, is a win for everyone.

A Dog Bed

A dog needs a space in the house which belongs to them. A comfy, tough dog bed allows them to have a space where they can relax and feel at home.

Make sure that you place the dog bed in a space where they can enjoy being with the family in their own area. They’ll be less inclined to jump on your furniture and stain your couch and chairs.

Dog Toys

Dogs are naturally playful and love to chew. Make sure that you buy them toys to release this natural tendency to chew playfully. Just be sure to purchase high-quality toys, particularly if you have a bigger breed. Otherwise, you’ll be buying a new toy every few days.