New pup - what will I need?! - Page 1

Hi all,

Looks like I'll be getting a pup in a couple of months.  :)  What should I have ready?

I am looking at the MidWest Life Stages crates, as they have a movable partition that you can use to make the crate smaller and adjust as the pup grows and is no longer at risk for messing in the crate. I am torn b/w a 42" x 28" and a 48" x 30". I know the 48" is larger than I need, but this is a permanent one for my home. Is bigger a bit nicer if they ever have to be in it for a longer time frame (I'm talking about when they are older and housebroken, while it's a pup the partition will be in)

What toys can you recommend for a GSD pup? Anything you can't live without?

Also - a couple of dumb questions:

Do breeders normally send you home with a collar? I'll have a long drive and will have to stop for a puppy pee break. If not, what size fits an average sized GSD pup (8 wks). Wouldn't want to lose my pup on the way home!  :/

I read an article on bringing home your puppy. It suggested holding the pup in a blanket on the way home if it was quiet (with someone else driving, obviously). Do you recommend this? I've always kept pets in a crate in the vehicle, but maybe they feel more secure in your arms?



Thanks!

I held my friends puppy while she drove. I think she was just a little bit jealous, though, as it was an hour plus drive. Puppy liked it, too.

No puppy I've picked up has had a collar.  I buy the small dog nylon ones, they work fine for the first little while.  You'll find your pup grows out of it really fast though.  Take a small bowl so you can offer your pup a drink of water on the way home too.   I always held my puppies on my lap during the drive. :)

Congrats!  Puppies are so much fun!

Hi Conspicuous,
   I agree with the others. Buy a 9"-12" puppy snap collar and invest in a good leash now. Definitely have a blanket and several towels (for motion sickness) and some water. I don't suggest a crate because to me it seems too impersonal and you would IMO be missing the most important step in bonding with your puppy as well as the memoriy of the "ride home." Remember, that puppy is going to love you unconditionally,return the favor!
                                                                                                                                              Enjoy your puppy and life,
                                                                                                                                              Richard

Thanks guys! Ok, I was just worried if it was unsafe. I'll plan on holding it then, but maybe bring a carrier in the car somewhere just in case.

For the ride home I'll bring a little bowl, some water, a couple of blankets, a towel, paper towel and/or baby wipes and a couple plastic bags (for any accidents). I'll get a collar and leash then. Thanks!

I'm so excited. I'm trying not to hound the breeder with a million questions, but not very successfully. lol

I personally like the 48".  When my shepherd was about 6 months old, I was able to put him in the full 48" without any accidents.  He had lots of room to play with treat toys when I left.  Now that he is full grown, we rarely put him in a crate.  But when we do, there is still plenty of room for a water bucket, food bowl, toys and stretch out space.

You have a beautiful dog mfh. :)

all u need is a lot of patience.

Save yourself money on all the toys.  Pups are like children.  They rather chew a empty water bottle and drag cardboard than play with some expensive toy.

Congratulations on your new puppy!! :)  I think you have a good idea for all things needed for your trip home.  Don't hesitate to ask your breeder ANY questions, that is what they are there for, and they want you to feel comfortable and happy with your purchase. Plus they want the puppy to be in good knowledgeable hands, so ask away!!  Have fun.

CT

Thanks RS, she looks quite a bit like your LC, doesn't she