What are the must-have dog accessories?
I’m asked this question at least once in a week. Sometimes it’s a dog trainer who asks; sometimes it’s a new or an experienced dog parent. I’ve had shelter workers and animal behaviour consultants toss me this question, too, but most often it’s new pet traders who worry that they might end up buying accessories that aren't just right for dogs.
I know that you're also wondering what the must-have dog accessories are.
The word accessories means “an object or device that is not essential in itself but adds to the beauty, convenience, or effectiveness of something else.”
If you're a dog parent, chances are, you're trying to figure out how to add to the beauty, effectiveness or convenience of your dog. This is part of responsible dog ownership. And I commend you for this.
Thankfully, there are a ton of dog accessories. The downside is that some of these dog accessories are non-essential.
However, I want to give you a go-to collection of the top must-have dog accessories. These are simple, fitting, effective, necessary, and — best of all — they’re absolutely must-have dog accessories for all types of dogs.
1. Dog Leash
If you're not yet using a dog leash, I suggest you start as soon as you can. There is no other dog accessories that helps in preventing infectious diseases like a dog leash.
Research has shown that putting a dog on a leash could be used as an intervention to reduce the spread of diseases between dogs, and also between dogs and people, during the outbreak of diseases.
Dog leash is also a must-have accessories if you want to reduce the number of encounters your dog might want to have with other dogs.
A dog leash is a must-have accessory if you want to:
- Control and pass on information to your dog during training.
- Stop your dog from going after people and animals.
- Stop your dog from entering dangerous places and causing accidents.
Types of Dog Leash
As a must-have dog accessory, any leash is suitable for everyday walk or exercise of your pooch. But if you want to correct any behaviour or teach your dog a specific skill, the choice of leash is essential.
There are different types of dog leash. They include:
- The standard dog leash—a must-have accessory for everyday walking and basic training.
- Adjustable dog leash
- Chain leash
- Retractable leash
- Martingale leash
- Multiple dog leash
2. Dog Collar
Dog collar is a must-have dog accessory because every dog needs a collar to hang their leash, rabies vaccination tag, licence and identification information.
Since dog collars come in different styles, it’s best to select one that’s the right size for your dog, has a quick-release clasp for safety, and has a sturdy D-ring where you can attach a leash.
Types of Dog Collars
Just like a dog leash, dog collars are of different types. As their styles differ, so do their purposes.
- Flat collar—a must-have dog accessory for attaching identification tags, leash and other necessary information.
- Martingale collar
- Head collar
- Prong collar
- Shock collar, etc.
3. Dog Raincoat
A dog raincoat is a must-have dog accessory because it will keep your pooch warm and dry when nature calls but it's raining outside.
Regardless of the weather conditions, a dog raincoat will protect your dog in the rain, snow, and all inclement weather so you can focus on giving your dog some much needed fun and daily dose of exercise.
Most dog raincoats are designed comfortably in a vibrant yellow color with safety reflective stripes and a full coverage hood that allows your dog to enjoy being outdoors regardless of the weather conditions.
4. Dog Seatbelt
A dog seatbelt is a must-have dog accessory for restraining your pup while still allowing them to sit, stand, or lie down while in the car.
Most dog seatbelt are designed with durable materials that protect your pet, keeping him/her on the seat, and away from the center console when you drive.
Just like the seatbelt for humans, they're easy to use. Just clip the dog seatbelt onto your pet harness and snap the belt tab right into the seat belt receptacle of your vehicle.
Before buying a dog seatbelt, ensure that the one you're going for will be suitable for the model of your vehicle.
5. Dog Boots
A dog boot is a must-have dog accessory for protecting your dog's paws from the hazards pose by thorns and brambles, hot asphalt, glass shards, rusty nails, or salt used for de-icing.
Most dog boots are thick and designed with rugged, anti-slip soles to protect them from the elements and keep their feet secure. They're also fully waterproof so their paws will stay clean and dry — and that means you can go play in a muddy park and come home without spending 20 minutes wiping their paws down with a towel.
6. Dog Anxiety Jacket
The dog anxiety jacket is a soothing friend that calms canine anxiety through gentle, constant pressure throughout the day. This results in a feeling of safety and security whether they're stressed out due to fireworks, thunder, separation, travel, vet visits, or other anxiety-inducing scenarios.
This is a great way to soothe your dog's worries without the use of sedatives or other drugs.
7. LED Rechargeable Dog Collar
This is a fully adjustable collar that can be worn as one solid light, or it can be set to blinking mode with two speed options. The LEDs are rechargeable via USB so you don't have to worry about them burning out, and each charge lasts about five hours.
This rechargeable dog collar comes in different glowing colour options such as neon green, orange, pink, blue, and red.
Conclusion
These must-have dog accessories are pretty powerful and will get you started with raising responsible dogs.
After some time, you’ll need to get most of the dog accessories and products that will keep your pet comfortable.
You won’t be able to raise a well-behaved dog without some of these products and accessories.
Here are the dog products that are typically not a must-have accessory but will help in keeping a well behaved dog.
- Dog Bed: If you’re interested in keeping your dog safe, comfortable and well-rested.
- Dog crate: If you don't want your dog to get into trouble while you're away.
- Dog camera: If you want to know what's going on with your dog when you're away.
- Dog gate: If you want to block off rooms where your dog isn't allowed.
- Washable dog bowl: For giving food and water to your dog.
- Dog food mat: If you want to keep your dog from making a huge mess at mealtime.
- Dog toys: If you want to keep your dog busy.
- Dog brush: For removing loose undercoat fur.
- Dog nail clippers: For keeping your dog's nails at a safe length.
- Poop bags: For collecting your dog's poop while walking.
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