Equipment

There are many different types of harnesses and collars available, all making incredible claims, but not all harnesses are suited to all dogs.

Body Harnesses are generally better for small dogs or dogs that don't pull.  Although many say they will stop a dog from pulling, they won't.  Did you ever see a Husky walking calmly beside a sled!  No, because harnesses are designed to make pulling comfortable for a dog, and dogs that are bred for pulling such as Husky's and Bernese Mountain Dogs will instinctively pull when they have a harness on.  However, they are better than a collar if your dog pulls hard on the lead.

Collars are good if you are training your dog to walk to heel or if he already walks well on the lead.

Head collars (sometimes called halti or gentle leader) are a great option if you are training your dog, especially if he is a large or strong dog as he will not be able to pull you as hard which will give you more control while you train him, it will also speed your training up too.

Dog Crates

Dog Crates or cages are relatively new to the UK, and some people think they are cruel.  I can see where they are coming from, but actually, when used correctly, they can help you housetrain your dog, prevent him from chewing, calm him down and relieve anxiety.  Most dogs go on to love their crate as a safe, den-like space that is all his, it provides him with security and keeps him safe when you are not there to supervise him.  Choose a dog crate that is big enough for your dog to lie down and stretch and high enough that he won't bang his head when he sits, don't be tempted to get a really big one, the key to the crates success is in the fact that it is a small space.  Remember to follow the instructions that come with your crate carefully,  and never leave your dog in his crate for more than four hours at a time during the day or all night.

In the car

Keeping you and your dog safe should be a priority when travelling in the car.  You have several options, you could choose to have dog bars installed and travel with the dog in the boot, this will depend entirely on the type of car you have as to whether this is an option for you, the bars usually go between the boot and the back seat and will prevent your dog from gaining access into the rear of the car, it will also stop him from flying through the car into the back of you or your passengers in the event of an accident.

Car harnesses are a popular choice too, these work by securing your dog in one of the passenger seats using the seatbelt. 

Alternatively, you could secure your dog in a dog crate or travel box (depending on his size), this will help keep him safe, but will also help to keep him calm in the car.  You should always transport puppies in a travel box or crate.

Beds

Your dog needs a bed, whether he chooses to lie in it or not, you should always give him the option, especially if he is very old or very young.  If your dog prefers the floor, and many do, that is fine but offer him a bed again when he gets old as his joints may need the extra support.  The bed you choose will depend entirely on your dog, however here are a few guidlines...

As a pup, his bed should be cheap enough that you won't object too much when you have to throw it out because he has out grown it.  It should also be quite sturdy as it is very likely to get chewed, and it should be easily cleaned, a good choice would be a plastic tub bed with an old blanket, duvet or cushion placed inside.  A poor choice, although you may be lucky, would be a wicker bed - easily destroyed and not easily cleaned.

For the adult, you would hope that he was now out the habit of eating his own bed by now, so you can choose whatever appeals to your decor!  Just make sure that it can be easily cleaned.  If your dog still does like to chew his bed, you may decide to either, go cheap and make your own out of old duvets or pay for an anti-chew bed or a leather one - however, some dogs will easily make a meal out of even these.

The geriatric or sick dog will need a special type of bed, speak to your vet about the best kind to suit your specific dogs needs.

For your puppy

Your puppy will need alot of things to get him off on the right track, and your shopping list is going to be huge...

	Toys, don't go mad, but he will need a ball, a rope, a soft toy, a chewy toy and a squeeky toy.  As he grows up you will find out what kinds of toys suit him best and will be able to get re-home the others.
	A bed
	A light lead and collar or body harness.
	Treats for training, get the smallest ones you can find as he might go through quite alot of them as you start training.
	Grooming products, he may not need grooming yet but you will have to go through the motions so that he gets used to being handled and groomed.
	At least two bowls, one for water which should be heavy as it is likely to be picked up and chewed if it is too light, and one for food.
	A dog crate for training, (see above)
	Teething products, your puppy will be teething, this is a normal part of growing up, but you can help relieve the pain with the right equipment.  Teething gel is available for dogs and will relieve his sore gums you can also get teething rings for dogs that go in the freezer which are very helpful.