Top 10 items every dog owner needs | KSL.com

Fifi and Fido need these crucial dog accessories, even if they insist the only things they need are treats.

Karli Davis

Sharing sweater weather with Winnie the Whippet is one of life’s greatest joys, and we fully support it. While it’s tempting to splurge on stylish outfits for your dog before anything else, KSL Classifieds has a list for new dog owners of essential things to put towards your doggy budget.

A tag is an extension of a collar. Tags ensure that if Skipper gets wanderlust and goes on a neighborhood adventure, someone can bring him back. If your dog is an enthusiastic walker and leash puller, get a harness instead, as it’ll prevent any neck discomfort.

A leash makes everyone feel safer on walks, prevents sprinting after squirrels and still lets your dog get all the sniffs in. Leashes are also required at a lot of parks and businesses, so don’t skip this one. If you have a brand new puppy, start with a short, lightweight leash. As they get older, you can get a longer or extendable leash for training.

We know it can take a while to help our doggies feel safe in a crate or kennel, but investing the time and money can be a lifesaver. Owners often find that their dog’s favorite place to nap is their kennel. It also helps your dog relax if they have to stay overnight at the vet or travel long distances.

Get a simple metal bowl or splurge on the pink sparkly one for all Buster the Bernese cares. If your pooch likes to splish splash in their bowl, there are heavy duty water dispensers and fountains that prevent too much spillage. If you’re out and about on a lot of walks or hikes, try a portable dog water bottle. That way your dog feels like they have their own stylish mug, even if it’s not a Stanley brand.

Your fluffy mutt is so cute. But sometimes, when you’re going out to a nice dinner, you want your little black dress to have a little less … fluff. Get a dog brush that’s gentle enough for their skin. Then get a fur roller, or seven. That way you can store one in every nook and cranny of your house or car, always staying one step ahead of those furry flyaways.

No, not the kind you take away from a restaurant. Get a fanny pack to store treats, water and other essentials like dog poop bags when you go for walks. You may also want to consider a small dog carrier bag or backpack if your pooch is small enough, or if they don’t do well walking through crowds.

In addition to their kennels, dogs like to find little places around the house to nestle. Next to the piano, on the side of the couch or on the windowsill to sunbathe. Get them a soft, cozy bed for those afternoon naps. Or get a dog cot so they think they have their very own couch.

If your dog isn’t naturally chasing prey through the wilderness or digging for hours, chances are you’ll need to keep a nail file on hand. If it feels too tricky to file your dog’s nails yourself, get a scratch board, especially if it’s one that can hide treats. A game and a spa day? Mischief managed!

Sometimes our dogs have indoor accidents, especially new puppies or dogs that are scared by fireworks and carpet demons — aka vacuums. That’s OK though, because you’ll have plenty of cleaners on hand to take care of any mishaps. Get some fast acting and quick absorbing cleaners, as well as some deep cleaners for tough odors.

Last but not least, if your dog is toyless, their natural instincts still need something to do. They may tear through your couch, table, railing and carpet. They’ll wag and think they did a good job because it’s natural for them to dig, scratch and chomp, chomp, chomp. Get your dog a variety of toys to help alleviate boredom and unwanted behaviors, such as unearthing your rutabagas.

Tug and fetch toys will tire your dog out. Bones, antler horns and other chewy toys alleviate stress and satisfy their natural instincts — be mindful that puppies and senior dogs have more delicate teeth. Food toys like Snuffle Mats or Kong treats keep your dog’s busy brains entertained and tire them out.

Now that you’ve got the necessities, search KSL Classifieds for any other pet needs, including a second or third dog sweater. All their friends at the dog park will be sure to say, “Bow-wow, what a good looking good boy!”