Best Dog Accessories For New Dog Owners: The Complete List.

Over a dozen of my friends and family got new dogs in 2020. It makes sense, too. Pet adoption rates throughout Canada and the US skyrocketed since the pandemic forced us to live in isolation.

“We’ve definitely seen an increase in adoptions throughout the whole COVID crisis…I think when people were home, they had a bit more time and they thought, ‘Well, this is probably a good time to bring an animal into our family,’  Also for many people it was a very lonely time. A lot of people were living alone and self-isolating. So the companionship of an animal became even more important.” -Lorie Chortyk of the B.C. SPCA speaking to CBC.ca

I received more queries from new dog owners asking about what accessories they need for their new dog than I have in a long time. Since so many people had similar questions, I decided to write this post. It covers every aspect of the best dog accessories a new dog owner may need.

Best Dog Accessories

1. Dog Food and Water Bowls

Every dog accessory shopping list must start with food and water bowls. Choose these wisely, as they will become a constant presence in your home. With such a wide variety of bowls available for pet owners to buy, choosing a pet bowl can become a bit overwhelming.

Keep these considerations in mind:

• Stainless steel dog bowls make the most practical choice. They are easily cleaned, sturdy, don’t absorb odors, and come in various sizes and styles.
• Slow-feed interactive dog bowls slow a dog who ‘wolfs’ down his food. Fast eaters tend to get a bloated gut, which can lead to digestive issues.
• Raised bowls make life easier for dogs to eat and drink. Some raised bowls come with adjustable heights, too. The increased height lets your pup feed without craning her neck down towards the floor. Typically the bowls are easy to remove for cleaning.
• If you keep your food and water bowls in the kitchen, look for bowls with a style that matches your room decor and colors.
• Earth-friendly options free from toxic materials exist in many options made from a wide variety of safe materials.
• Bowls with a non-slip base make for ideal water bowls. After a few accidental water bowl spills, most dog owners are ready to spend upwards of $50 on a bowl, so they don’t have to pick up another mess.

2. Dog Collar

I’ve written extensively about dog collars. These posts contain everything you need to know about selecting the best dog collar for your dog, from tough, durable collars to the best training collars available today. Click the link below to check them out.

Dog collars blogs

3. Dog Leash

A dog leash goes hand-in-hand with your dog’s collar (pun intended). A must-have for new dog owners for best dog accessories. Some cities in the USA have actually passed laws that require dogs to be on a leash in public areas.

They prevent your dog from frightening other people or animals and also running away from you. Leashes also provide a way to communicate with your dog and ensure control during the training.

I recommend starting with a general-purpose leash based on the size of your dog.

For Small Dogs

Fida Retractable Dog Leash X-Small Breed

Key Features: Suitable for extra small dogs up to 18 lbs, this white retractable pet leash is built with a 360° tangle-free, 10ft high-strength nylon tape durable, rustproof swivel hook, and impact-resistant ABS material. The highly-durable internal coil spring for consistent retraction lasts several years.

Black leash tape is embedded with white reflective materials. The highly reflective cord leash increases security and visibility for dogs and their owners at night. An ergonomic anti-slip soft handle is made of durable ABS material and has a super comfortable grip for longer walks.

For Large Dogs

TUG Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash 

Key Features: Large-size leash suitable for dogs under 110 lbs. With a 16 ft tape leash, this TUG patented 360-degree tangle-free dog leash comes with easy-adjust retraction. It comes with a quick lock/unlock feature, allowing for easy roll-on and roll-off with your thumb. A super comfortable grip made for long walks comes with an ergonomic anti-slip handle

4. Dog ID Tags

Now that you bought a collar and leash, you need to get your pup ID tags. Have a tag made containing your contact information and attach it to your dog’s collar. This makes it easier for someone to return your pet if he runs astray.

Dr. Fremont’s Pet ID Custom Tags

In my opinion, second to the leash,  this is one of the best dog accessories to have for your dog’s safety. You can avoid all the stress and grief if your dog ever runs away.

You add all your personal information to the dog tag. So that whoever finds your little one can contact you easily.

Key Features: Made from high-quality anodized aluminum, these US-made ID tags include a split ring to attach the ID tag to your dog’s collar. You can personalize both the front and back of the tag.

5. Dog Crate

A majority of dog owners opt to crate-train their dogs. According to the Humane Society, dogs don’t like to soil their dens, so crates aid in housetraining. The crate can limit access to the rest of the house while learning other rules, like not to chew on furniture. Crates are also a safe way to transport your dog in the car.

Midwest Homes for Pets, 2 Door Dog Crate with Cover 

Key Features: This is the perfect starter kit for a new dog owner. Everything you need arrives in 1 carton so you can enjoy more time with your new family member. The kit comes with a 2-door crate, 1 dog bed, 1 crate cover & 2 (20 oz.) pet bowls that affix to the dog crate. The dog crate measures 30-inches long x 19-inches wide x 21-inches high when assembled. This starter kit is ideal for medium dog breeds where adults weigh from 26-40 pounds.

For the best dog crate covers, check out our recommendations here.

6. Dog Waste Bags

Here it is. The worst part of owning a dog: picking up the poop. It’s a necessary evil, unfortunately. Often a controversial topic among dog-lovers and earth-friendly folks, dog waste bags can both help and harm. For that reason, I suggest always opt for eco-friendly biodegradable waste bags. But before your pup does his duty outside, he’ll need a bit of training first.

Puppy Pads

AmazonBasics Puppy potty training bags 

Key Features: Each pad measures 22-inches square, with the center pad measuring 19-inches square. The pad has a 1.5-inch plastic border on all sides to prevent overflow. The super-absorbent core turns liquid to gel upon contact. Plus, it’s leak-proof with a plastic lining to prevent damage to floors. Its quick-dry surface has a built-in attractant.

Poop Bags

Earth Rated Eco-friendly Dog Poop Bags

#1 Best Seller.

Key Features: These 9”x13” bags have a 100% leak-proof guarantee to keep your hands safe. The box contains 270 extra thick and strong poop bags on 18 refill rolls of 15 bags, and fit the Earth Rated dispenser, too. Poop smells like poop, but these amazing scent-free poop bags lock-in that smell for good. The bags are easy to open so you can enjoy a stress-free walk with your dog no matter the weather. 

7. Dog Treats

Dog treats play a big role in creating a strong bond between you and your dog. Giving her a well-earned treat displays affection she’ll really appreciate. 

Hill’s Grain-Free Soft-Baked Naturals with Duck & Pumpkin Dog Treat

Key Features: These natural treats have a real duck as the #1 ingredient. They are grain-free with no corn, wheat, soy, added artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.

8. Dog Beds

Anyone that’s visited this website knows I advocate for getting your dog a high-quality dog bed. These often-overlooked dog accessories give your dog a comfortable place to rest off the floor, giving her joints well-deserved padding.

To learn more about dog beds, please check out these articles:

• The Best Dog Beds with Removable Covers
• Best Dog Beds for Separation Anxiety
• Best Elevated Dog Beds: A Buying Guide
• 6 Best Luxury Dog Beds Reviews
• Best Dog Beds for Cockapoos
• 6 Best Dog Beds for Hip Dysplasia

9. Dog Harness

A good dog harness will prevent your pup from getting tangled up in her leash. Harnesses also help prevent dog injuries (especially very small dogs) from pulling on the leash. Where a collar places pressure on your dog’s neck, a harness disperses that pressure over a larger area of her body. This reduces the strain on her neck and back. Another added benefit? Harnesses discourage pulling.

For Hiking

RUFFWEAR, Web Master, Multi-Use Support Dog Harness, Hiking and Trail Running

Key Features: Anatomically designed for canine companions with a nose for adventure; Ideal for challenging terrains, working dogs, service dog handlers, and amputee dogs. Made for maneuvering, the padded, reinforced handle is designed to safely and comfortably help your dog up and over obstacles. 5 convenient points of adjustment for a full range of motion; 2 sturdy leash connection points; Anodized aluminum V-ring and webbing loop. Durable construction for a high-performance, lightweight feel; Resilient, rugged, and made for year-round use; With reflective trim and safety light loop (Beacon light sold separately). Foam-padded straps provide lasting comfort without hindering movement; Designated area for patches and signage

For Large Dogs

Rabbitgoo Dog Harness, No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips, Adjustable Soft Padded Dog Vest

Key Features: Measuring Neck Girth: 16.1″ – 23.2″, Chest Girth: 20.5″ – 36″. Make your puppy stand out with this Classic Black Harness! This non-pulling dog harness is specially designed with 2 metal leash rings for safer dog walks. Use the chest attachment clip to stop your dog from pulling on walks, perfect for dog training or dogs who tend to pull. The back clip is great for casual walks, jogging, hiking, etc

For Small Dogs

Voyager All Weather Mesh Dog Harness with Padded Vest

Key Features: This machine-washable harness is made of breathable mesh fabric with strong velcro closure and has heavy-duty metal D-rings. Stepping-in style-easy to wear with double security (fastener and buckle)

10. Dog Training Guide

All new puppies and owners should go through some form of dog training. I recommend Brain Training 4 Dogs.

I have a full review of this program. You can read it here.

Or, if you like to go straight to the program, continue here.

11. Dog Gate

Rather than opting for a dog crate, many dog owners prefer to give their pup more freedom throughout their home. However, some rooms may need to remain off-limits to the dog. Solve that problem easily with a quality pet gate.

Carlson Pet Products 3030 Design Studio Wood Metal Walk Through Pet Gate

Key Features: Fashioned with cherry wood accents and a black finish, this sturdy, all-metal frame gate expands to fit openings 30.5-33.5 inches wide and stands 30 inches tall. It requires a simple setup with no tools required. Easy to use lever handle features a one-touch release safety lock.

12. Dog Toys

With an endless supply of dog toy varieties, I’ll leave this category up to your own imagination. Here are a few types you may want to consider, however.

• Balls
• Tug-of-war toys/ropes
• Puzzle toys with treats inside
• Stuffed toys
• Squeaking toys
• Chew toys

13. Dog Food Storage Container

Dog food storage containers serve two purposes. First, they keep your dog’s dry food from going stale as fast as leaving it in the bag it came in. Second, they deter your pup from chewing their way into the food. Paper bags dog food comes in make for an easy way for your dog to make a mess and overeat when you’re not around.

IRIS Premium Airtight Pet Food Storage Container

Key Features: An airtight seal keeps out moisture, humidity, and pests. The tapered shape from top to bottom makes the bin easy to clean. It holds 42-lbs of dry dog food. Made in the USA, it’s FDA-compliant and BPA-free. Dimensions: 19.30″L x 14.80″W x 23.70″H.

14. Dog Tech Gadgets

With technology advancing at an ever-increasing rate, it’s no wonder we have new options for dog accessory gadgets.

Dog Camera

Furbo Dog Camera: Treat Tossing, Full HD WiFi Pet Camera

If you’re always away from home, this is one of the best dog accessories to have.

Key Features: 1080p full HD camera with night vision. Livestream video to monitor your pet on your phone with a 160-degree wide-angle view, both day and night.

It’s compatible with Alexa.

Toss a treat to your dog via the free Furbo iOS/Android app. Fill it with your dogs’ favorite treats and play a game of catch.

GPS Tracker

Whistle Go Explore/The Ultimate Health + Location Tracker for Pets/Grey

Key Features: Whether it’s a sneaky escape or a stroll with the dog walker, get notified by email, text, or app when your pet leaves a designated safe place. Using AT&T’s nationwide network and Google maps, quickly locate your pet, Whether they’re down the street or 3 000 miles away.

15. Dog Travel Gear

Traveling with your pup creates a whole new list of dog accessories to make the trip enjoyable. Here are a few accessories I recommend.

Car Back Seat Crate

I have a whole post for that! Check it out here.

Car Seat Cover

Honest Dog Car Seat Cover with Side Flap for Cars, Trucks, and Suv’s 

Protect your car seat from hair, smell, and dirt, as well as keep your dog safe.

It is easy to install with buckle straps, built-in rubber nonslip backing, and seat anchors to prevent sliding the seat cover.

Dog Jacket for Outdoors

Hurtta Extreme Warmer Dog Winter Jacket

The name says it all; Extreme Warmer Dog Jacket. It will keep your dog warm outdoor in the coldest weather. A reflective foil inside the jacket reflects the dog’s body heat for added warmth. The waterproof surface material is soft and comfortable. And it comes with a  high tricot hood to warm the dog’s neck, how cool is that!

Dog Backpack for Hiking

Kurgo Big Baxter Dog Backpack, Barn Red

Dog Boots

Even though dog boots may not be on your list for the best dog accessories, but they do protect your dog’s paws and should be available.

They protect your dog’s paws from hot pavement or icy surfaces if you go ice fishing, for example. Also, for hiking or camping, you will feel safe knowing your dog paws are protected from the outdoor elements.

QUMY Dog Boot Waterproof Shoes for Large Dogs with Reflective Strip Rugged Anti-Slip Sole Black 4PCS

Conclusion

Adopting a new dog goes well beyond bringing the pup home. Dogs require a wide assortment of accessories to ensure both you and she coexist happily. It’s time to get your shopping list and start crossing items that you bought off the list!