Bringing a puppy into your home can feel exciting and a little daunting at the same time, but it’s also great fun when both of you learn together. From my own experience, buying new toys and setting up a cozy corner before actually bringing them in makes the process smoother. There are lots of things you should think about to avoid potential problems later, like choosing the right food and safe spaces. A simple guide to daily routines, gentle training, and regular vet visits will help you give your pup the best possible start in life. With steady care, your little friend will thrive, and every small step will be worth it.
Up to 8 weeks – before you bring your puppy home
When I was waiting for my puppy, I learned how important it is to check what the previous owner had already done, including whether vaccination, toilet training started, or even socialising started by gently introducing them to new situations and people. Knowing where your little one came from and what steps have been covered will guide you on what you should continue once you’re bringing them home. A few careful steps make a big difference in how smooth the arrival feels for both you and your pup.
I remember organising the first essentials before my puppy arrived — creating a safe space, buying the right toys, and making sure I could provide enough play to keep them happily occupied. Providing proper rest mattered just as much, so I set up a crate, soft hiding places, and a cosy bed in a quiet, draught-free place where my puppy could stay undisturbed. I also prepared something familiar — a blanket from the breeder to bring back with the puppy — so they could snuggle in and feel more comfortable in their new home with you. You really need to think ahead and prepare well, as this is the time to make your pup feel safe and cared for.
Another key step was removing any poisonous plants or objects that pups may start chewing — you don’t want them to get sick from anything unsafe around the house. Finally, organising puppy classes early is very helpful; I had already booked a class and made sure to sign up. You can easily find one nearby, and once you go, you’ll start getting to know other owners so you can pick up tips. Starting these early on builds confidence in both you and your pup, setting a strong foundation right from the beginning.
12 weeks onwards – puppy training and socialisatoin
At around 12 weeks, your puppy starts to learn faster, and every experience will shape their future behaviour. This is the important time now to focus on what they will carry forward in life. Even if your pup isn’t fully vaccinated yet, you can still continue socialisation by giving positive experiences in safe ways. I used to practice introducing pets carefully — letting my pup meet healthy fully vaccinated dogs and cats, helping them feel calm to accept other animals as part of their world. I also found that carrying my pup outside to introduce new people, sights, sounds around them was useful, especially before they were ready to walk on the ground. You can also gradually introduce experiences like short car rides, gentle grooming, and being handled — having their ears, eyes, body parts checked, such as at the vet. By exposing them early, you make these moments normal. It’s equally important to leave them alone for short periods to prevent separation-related behaviour; this helped me begin teaching independence for them in a calm way.
6 months onwards – further dog training and neutering
At around six months, puppies are still learning, but this age is when you should continue reward-based training and make sure experiences stay positive. I noticed that keeping experiences positive day by day really did help my own puppy grow into a confident adult dog, and it made life enjoyable for both your puppy and you. This is also the stage to speak with your vet about any concerns or to ask about neutering if you haven’t already. It’s always better to check if you have questions and get guidance tailored to them.
As your pup develops, they may be ready to move onto advanced dog training classes, which helps them progress with more focus and discipline. Joining a group setting also gives your puppy a chance to learn from other dogs, making their experiences richer. I remember my trainer encouraging me that if your puppy is ready, it’s the perfect time to push gently while keeping rewards fun. This balance ensures they stay engaged and motivated.
Another big step is nutrition. Around this stage, you’ll likely move onto adult dog food to meet their bigger dietary needs, since puppies grow fast and change as they get their needs met. Adjusting food correctly supports healthy development, so always introduce it gradually and monitor them carefully. By combining structured training with proper diet, you’re making sure your pup continues to thrive, one step at a time.
1. Improve their ‘scentwork’
One of the easiest ways to boost your dog’s natural skills is by scattering treats in a safe spot like the grass and letting your dog use her nose to find them. I often did this in my backyard, and it became a game my pup looked forward to every day. This simple play helps your pup stay focused in a fun way while building confidence and using instincts.
Another activity is getting or making a snuffle mat from a rug with a long thick pile where you can hide treats in the folds. If you don’t want to buy one, you can easily create a snuffle mat by tying fabric pieces together. This turns meals into a fun puzzle, and your pup learns patience while staying busy. It’s amazing how such a small change to your routine can enrich their daily life.
You can also try hiding treats around the house when your dog isn’t looking, then watch the excitement as they search for them. For dogs that need more structured learning, taking scentwork classes can be a great option. These are even suitable for reactive dogs who overreact to stimuli or situations, since sniffing reduces stress and prevents confused aggression. Trainers guide you in a calm way that’s safe and positive, so your pup feels secure while learning.
Research has also highlighted the science behind this. In one study, applied animal behaviour scientists assigned dogs to a two-week scentwork group class with homework. They compared progress in scentwork and heelwork judgment bias test before and after. Dogs in the scent group were shown to quickly respond to an ambiguous bowl placed in locations they didn’t know would contain food. The results showed these dogs became more optimistic, expect sooner rewards, and get there quicker, proving how powerful sniff-based games can be.
Daily life also matters — during off-lead walks dogs’ noses guide them naturally, but even on an on-lead walk, letting them sniff down longer makes outings calmer and happier. I always let their noses use it for them, and I noticed it makes the walk feel more rewarding even if slow. Building these routines creates enriching moments that deepen your bond and ensure your pup thrives.
2. Use a variety of treats
When you want to improve rewards training, remember that food can be the strongest form of positive reinforcement. I found that the best way to train a dog is by keeping it fun and flexible. A big mistake is sticking only to kibble, so it helps to bring in a variety of treats. Some healthy human foods like chicken, roast beef, and cheese can make the session more exciting. Every time you mix things up, it feels fresh for your pup. Change keeps them motivated, especially when you’re using reward-based training in short bursts.
I noticed my dog responded better when rewards were unpredictable. Scientists show dogs learn faster when the bowl contains sausage instead of just kibble. They pay more attention to a piece that’s different than they are used to. Research even found that if pups don’t know what comes next, they stay more engaged. A simple switch between cheese cubes and kibble can get one to show if they’re alert and learning.
Over time, I’ve learned that dogs preferred treat variety because it feels like a surprise. Some of my dogs loved to play a game of tug as a great reward, and in fact, some dogs preferred play over food. Having this mix means you can quickly adapt — sometimes you’ll have a tasty bite, other times a playful chase. This makes training sessions enjoyable not just for them, but for you too.
It’s also important to avoid the wrong tools. Training should never rely on punishment. Things such as leash jerks, yelling, prong, or shock collars are associated with risks to welfare and can damage your dog’s trust. Instead, focus on rewards because all of the best ways to train are with positive reinforcement.
I’ve seen firsthand how powerful this approach is — the dog’s confidence grows, sessions are smooth, and your bond gets stronger. It’s a balance of consistency, kindness, and making rewards meaningful. That’s why using the right mix of treats and games is the key to progress.
3. Make playtime social
When your puppy is young, giving them opportunities to play with doggy friends is very important, especially for puppies who are still learning. I always made sure these were supervised sessions, sometimes at a puppy class, because it helps them learn to bite gently, develop motor skills, and build confidence. The great part is you’ll notice how your dog discovers what they’re comfortable with and what likes they prefer.
Play also fulfils social functions — when you watch dogs playing, you can see clear signals. A playful bounce step, the gorgeous face expression, or the play bow with legs on the ground and bum in the air are signs that your dog is having fun. Some pups enjoy being chased, others love chasing, while more tolerant older dogs may prefer to hang with another dog rather than wrestle or chase. Paying attention to changes in activities helps you keep play safe and fun for all.
For pups meeting unknown dogs, go slow. If they don’t already know the other dog, instead of rushing, give them time to settle. This is a great way to let them choose comfort at their own pace. Play doesn’t need to stick to another dog either; some pups like toys in your activities too. What matters is making sure social play becomes one of the more rewarding times for your dog, building trust, joy, and stronger bonds with you and their new friends.
4. Give your dog a safe space
Creating a safe space for your dog is like giving them their own little sanctuary where they can chill and relax without being disturbed. In my home, I set up a cozy bed in a quiet spot with a crate that has its door left slightly open, so they can go in or out whenever they want to. This is especially important in homes with children, as a shy or fearful pup may just wish to be left alone rather than be handled. One simple household rule we follow is that everyone knows not to bother the dog when they are resting there. If you need to get their attention, don’t just walk over and grab them—instead, gently call them to come. This way, it will always be clear that the space belongs to your pup, and no one could take it away. From my experience, having such a spot not only helps the dog feel secure but also makes life easier for the whole family, as their comfort and boundaries can be respected. Just make sure you set it up properly so they know it’s truly theirs, and they’ll happily go in or out as they please.
5. Get a decent dog bed
When it comes to dogs and their sleep, I’ve learned that investing in good beds is truly worth a lot, because otherwise they’ll just climb onto the sofa or other furniture if you let them. There’s no doubt that many owners ignore the common myths around what pets actually want, but once you decide to give your pup a proper bed, they’ll feel like it’s their safe spot. For old adults who may suffer from joint issues or arthritis, a bed closer to the lower ground makes it easier to step into, and sometimes adding steps or a ramp gives better access to higher furniture than they’d otherwise manage. From my own home, I noticed that my senior dog had more need for this kind of support so I got a low, cushioned option, and it made resting far more comfortable. That’s the kind of thoughtful choice that keeps them cozy in their later years, too, and proves it’s not just about luxury but about care for their health.
6. Discover your dog’s preferences
One helpful tip I’ve learned from raising dogs is to never assume what your dog likes—preferences are individual. Some dogs truly enjoy a game of fetch, while others prefer tug, chasing games, or even a flirt pole with a toy that mimics a cat’s wand. I used to think my pup loved to play in the park, but then I noticed his tail wagging far more when we went on a walk in the forest or for a short visit to a pond where he could splash. These little details show what really engages their predatory instincts and keeps them engaging in activities that feel natural.
Spending time together in different ways helps improve the dog-human bond. You can simply accompany them on errands, let them cuddle on the sofa while watching tv, or try joint activities like exploring new spots. It’s great how many things you and your dog can do that make life richer for both. Some days, they might prefer something calm, and other days, they can’t get enough of fun play—so carefully think about these little signals. That’s the way to know more about their true likes and to give them the life they deserve.
1. Turn up the dial on exercise
Some dogs simply adore every kind of activity, and their exuberance is easy to see when you mention a walk or a run. My own pup goes a little crazy with excitement at the whisper of “outings,” and that display of joy reminds me how important it is to keep daily walks fresh and fun. Sometimes I take him on a gentle ramble, other times we jog, or head to the park where he can enjoy a safe off-the-lead run. Each experience feels more enjoyable when I vary the place and pace, taking an extra-long stroll one day and adding a few short routes in addition on others.
I’ve noticed that joining my pup in new spots is usually well received, and it helps make the daily routine less predictable. Going to a local trail or quiet space will give them something new, which makes the outing even better for both of us. At most, it doesn’t take much effort—just some creativity—to keep exercise exciting. The energy boost can be very rewarding, and those moments of taking your dog out to explore new places be the best way to strengthen the bond. Hence, turning simple walks into little adventures can transform ordinary routines into something special.
2. Fight boredom
Give your dog more mental stimulation with mind-engaging activities such as enrichment puzzles, new toys, visits to new places and learning new skills and tricks.
3. Give them a hand
Most dogs learn visual signals faster than verbal ones. When training, communicate more clearly by using hand signals along with words. Your dog will heave a figurative sigh of relief at finally being able to understand you.
4. Rub them the right way
I’ve learned that dogs and people both appreciate a gentle massage, as it promotes relaxation and even supports healing. When I rub my pup’s shoulders or along his back, he feels good and instantly calms down. It’s not only soothing but also builds bonding, making their trust in you even stronger. I always make sure to keep it slow and light so he knows it’s a moment just for him.
What’s fun is noticing how you’ll know when your dog likes it—the gentle sighs, the tiny leg twitching, or even the way most pups lean in for more. These small signs show that the touch isn’t only physical comfort but something that promotes deeper connection. A simple massage feels like good communication without words, and so it turns into a routine both you and your furry friend will come to truly enjoy.
5. Stop and smell the world
Dogs need time for explore because allowing them to enjoy the world’s wonderful smells helps engage their keen scent abilities. Work or daily activities are important, but letting their noses roam naturally, tracking, playing, or doing scent games is fun and be rewarding for both of you. So try to make sure that walks in the park or neighborhood not only provide exercise but also mental stimulation, because that time comes means a lot for them and strengthens your bond.
6. Free them from fashion
Sometimes a dog’s collar, belts, or tags with jingles can bother them more than help, especially at night when noise disrupts sleep. While dogs can wear accessories like watches, earrings, or a pouch for a purpose, giving them freedom from unnecessary items makes movement easier and bothers them less. I’ve found that simply removing extra tags or using tape to secure them quietly gives my pup more comfort and peace, letting them enjoy life without distractions.
7. Feed them well
When you feed your dog, it’s important to do so carefully and consider the nutrition in every meal. Making good choices means offering a variety of fresh and healthy food, because many people debate what’s best, and even ask a vet for advice. Research shows the advantages of canine diets that help your pup thrive, and most agree that especially when you mix some high-quality kibble with natural ingredients, it’s not only tasty but also supports long-term health.
8. Keep them tidy
Proper grooming helps dogs stay comfortable and safer, allowing free movement while eliminating tangles, stuck fur, and overgrown nails. A regular haircut suited to their breed and coats keeps their skin and eyes healthy, while short or orderly fur allows them to look cute and comfortable. Keeping their toenails trimmed and abolishing any hanging or tugging fur ensures unobstructed vision and movement, no matter the style or choice of coat, and even how most dogs may react, it is essential for better grooming and good hygiene.
9. Play it up
Make play dates for your dog with other nice, well-socialised pups. Most dogs love to play with other dogs, and their exhilaration is palpable as they frolic together.
10. Sharpen your focus
Dogs value the time we spend focused completely on them, and that’s easiest to do without anyone else present. This quality time is especially valuable and important in multi-dog households. So, carve out some one on one time for your pup every day to make their tail wag like crazy.
The Best Dog Accessories to Enrich Your Pup’s Life
If you spend your day in apartments or offices, keeping dogs happy and adorable can be easier with the right gear and accessories. From automatic cat feeders and litter boxes to heated vests and paw protectors, the right items make life more comfortable for pit mixes, heelers, or any loyal dog. I’ve personally tested toys, treats, and furniture that keep boys and girls active and safe, and tips and tricks from guides or reporting sites in New York City and the country can help you choose the best.
Some favorites I’ve bought include the seatmate office chair, ororo supplies, fable digital access, grrreen and wagwell pet accessories, and maev wired gadgets that nuggets of exclusive content for subscribers subscribe to today. These items aren’t just cute; they enrich your pup’s life by adding comfort, fun, and engagement for every routine, whether you’re trading foot colleagues or relaxing at home.
The Best Poop Bag Dispenser
A dog’s walk is easier when you have a poop bag dispenser that works perfectly. I’ve tested several designer and store-bought holders, and the oval, sturdy, silicone dispenser with a strap for your leash or handbag stands out. Insert a roll of bags at the bottom, align the tab with the gap, and pull smoothly—no snag or crumpled mess. Flat, high-quality bags breaks fine and satisfying every time, and a lifetime-rated product makes disposal at a trash can near a fire hydrant simple. This new bag holder is designed so every year of walks stays hassle-free, functions well, and keeps earth clean.
The Best Dog Poop Bags
When cleaning up after your dog, the best poop bags are thick, strong, and tear-resistant, making them perfect for grass or any surfaces where your pup might dig a hole. Look for lavender-scented or green, recycled plastic options from a company that is earth-certified and follows social and environmental standards, so your business of picking up bags has a positive impact. Simply grab one with a finger and toss the trash—practical and eco-friendly.
A Great Water Bottle
Keeping your dog hydrated is easy with doggie water bottles like the Lil Gulp or Little Chonk, featuring adorable design flourishes and color schemes that make them some of our favorites. These bpa-free flask-style bottles fit in a car cup holder or cradle and come with a handle for toting. Simply press the button on the side to pour filtered, carbon-contaminant-free water into the trough without spilling on flat surfaces or your lap, and the transparent design lets you see how much is left. Easy to hand-wash or dishwasher-safe, replace the filter every few months to keep your pup sipping fresh water at home or on the go.
A Cushy Pet Bed
Give your dog the ultimate cozy resting spot with orthopedic pet beds like Casper or Buffy, designed to support older dogs’ joints while distributing weight evenly with gel and memory foam. Whether you choose a small version for a pooch under 20 pounds or an oversized model for heavier dogs, the plush, soft, durable foam base helps them jump in and out comfortably, while removable covers in corduroy or sherpa make cleaning easy in the machine and air dry. Velcro straps keep pillows in place, and many beds allow your dog to dig or coax their heads into soft corners, giving them a standard of comfort that quickly becomes their favorite resting spot.
Your Dog’s Office Chair
Turn your home office into a shared space with a dog seatmate, a perfect solution for your pup who loves to run up or stretch while you work. With faux fur seats that are soft and comfortable, these chairs support dogs of various pounds, letting them snooze or watch from a height where they can see all the perks of the desk. Easy to assemble and often paired with a ramp for longer pets, the seat encourages gentle petting while your pet becomes an adorable companion without crowding the floor, keeping your office space organized and cozy.
For Rainy Days
Keep your dog’s life cozy on a wet walk or after a bath with dog-specific towels that absorb water quickly. Plush, thicker, and sized just right, these towels—like college-approved Geometry’s line—are made from postconsumer, recycled materials, and come in cute prints that hide funky smell. Swap a regular towel for one with uses tailored to your dog, letting you drying the side of your pup efficiently while keeping the moment fun and fresh.
Best Dog Camera
Keep an eye on your dog at home with a Furbo camera that spins 360 degrees to give a full view of the room and track your canine’s every move. This machine lets you hunt for mischief, toss a treat through the hole, and even communicate via video while receiving notifications about bark alerts, chewing, or intruders. With 1080p quality, night vision, and light, plus a subscription service for cloud clips of events, your pet’s safety is ensured, and you can access past moments anytime you subscribe.
Wipe Their Feet
After walking your dog barefoot on the street, it’s smart to wipe their feet before they enter your home and touch the carpet, couch, or bed. We’ve used Caboo’s bamboo pet wipes for years—these wet wipes come in an easy tube, do a great job removing dirt from paws, and the company’s sustainability claims are more than a greenwashing ploy, making them a small perk for eco-conscious pet owners.
Best Dog Bowl
The $60 water bowl recommended by WIRED editor Adrienne So may seem pricey, but unlike cheaper water bowls that get kicked, stepped, or splashed across the kitchen, Yeti’s bowl is capacious, heavy, and has a nonslip base, so it stays put even when your dog walks around, holding up to eight cups of water. It also sits well on mats or stands, making messy grody spills less of a worry, and it’s dishwasher safe, so cleaning is easy.
A Stylish and Comfy Pet Carrier
The airline-approved carrier from Louisville, Kentucky keeps your dog stylish and comfortable whether at the beach, in the airport, or on a flight, with a soft sherpa base, plush removable lining that’s easy to clean, and mesh panels for airflow. Zippered pockets hold treats and accessories, while the luggage pass-through strap and shoulder strap make toting simple, even for frames as tall as 6’4″, without feeling uncomfortable. Your pup can plop inside with head barely sticking out, and the bag comes in a small version (15 pounds) and a large version (20 pounds), all crafted from Global Recycled Standard-certified 900-denier polyester made from 32 recycled bottles, making it eco-friendly and durable for trips.
The Viral Dog Backpack
The Instagram-famous backpack, Maxine One, WIRED Recommends for small and medium dogs, makes outings easier for your pup by securely holding them on your back while shopping for groceries or carrying a latte. Straps tighten to prevent fray, and a small barrier keeps the dog safely inside while loading and unloading with minimal coaxing or encouragement. Passersby often give attention, and the company also recommends limiting time for larger dogs to avoid extra weight strain, making this version perfect for everyday use and visits to the vet.
Or Grab a Dog Tote
For a pup on the go, consider a Roverlund Out-and-About Pet Tote as a handy option. This shoulder bag or backpack model—even though some Pro Edition versions have been discontinued—offers years of reliable use thanks to its sturdy structure, soft base, and stable room for small or large dogs up to a few pounds. Straps, pockets, and a built-in carabiner for attaching a dog leash keep essentials organized and gripe issues resolved, making walks or car trips comfortable and safe.
A Toy Chest
Keep your pup entertained by creating a fun toy chest near the entrance or in your living room, filled with dog toys from your local pet store or Etsy. Choose wood furniture with dog-themed cutouts like bone or paw shapes, stained nicely, so dogs can easily grab and play. Fast and easy assembly ensures an excellent addition to your home, and you can even personalize it with your dog’s name to make it more attractive and stylish for your wife and family.
Great Dog Jackets
Keep your dog dry and comfortable in any rainstorm with Blueberry Pet jackets and hoodies, made from waterproof softshell, polyester, and elastane that give full coverage while being lightweight and cool for your pup. A hood protects the head, and the body fits snugly with a hole for the leash or harness to stay clipped in place. Blueberry Pet items are standouts, so measure your dog’s length using the company’s size guide before you buy, ensuring the condition and fit are perfect for wet weather adventures.
A Dog Ramp
Help your dog stay healthy and keep joints strong as they age with the DoggoRamp, a functional solution that allows your pet to climb surfaces like the couch or bed without hurting themselves. WIRED Recommends ramps and foam stairs for furniture at the right height and angles, with a fold feature for easy storage. Options like the Couch Ramp, Small Dog Bed Ramp, or Large Dog Bed Ramp fit hardwood or carpet, have a rubber mat to prevent scratches and wear, and are easy to assemble in North America, letting your dog navigate their home safely.
Best Bath Accessory
Make bath time easier for your stinky dog with the Aquapaw Pet Bathing Tool, a blue or black sprayer that attaches to a showerhead, adapter, or garden hose. The On button on the palm lets you control water flow while the scrubber cleans fur without giving your dog the stink eye. This bathe tool is not wasteful, making bath time faster, gentler, and less stressful for both you and your dog.
A Grooming Kit (That Vacuums!)
Keeping your dog clean is simple with the S1 Pro, a machine with mini vacuum components that suck up dog’s fur, clumps, and stray hair from clothes or floor while you groom your pup. It comes with attachments, carousel combs, guide combs, a trim tool, clipper, pet razor, nail grinder, and electric components for paw pads, nails, claws, or dog’s butt hair, making trimming, shaving, or dematting easy. The HEPA sponge filter keeps clean-up minimal, the trigger and sound are gentle, and all components store neatly in one space, giving you a smooth, stress-free experience while keeping your dog tidy.
A Jacket for Winter
Keep your dog warm in cold or rain with Ruffwear’s Stumptown Quilted jacket, designed like a fur coat for your pet. Available in multiple sizes, it uses 300-denier polyester ripstop, DWR water-repellant, and recycled polyester insulation for maximum warmth. Side-release buckles make it easy to secure, and the reflective trim improves visibility. A cutout on the back fits over a leash or harness, and the jacket is safe in the washing machine, keeping your dog cozy, dry, and ready for winter walks.
Best Harness
A good harness keeps your dog safe and comfortable, especially for pooches like Roux who may pull or go into frenzy after a squirrel or cat. WIRED senior editor Adrienne So recommends the Front Range harness because it is strong, secure, padded, and has multiple attachment points for a leash on the back or chest. Its reflective strips make night walks in low-traffic areas like Cat Alley safer, and the harness wears well over time, is washer-friendly, and helps with impulse control, preventing your dog from spin-ing or pulling unexpectedly.
A Waist Pack to Carry Essentials
A truism for any dog or child owner is that carrying essentials makes walking easier, and a waist pack from Mazie Days is a perfect accessory. I’ve seen Adrienne So and others use it to grab poop bags, treat pouch, keys, phone, or even lip gloss while keeping hands free for Charlie, your dog, or kid. The soft, vegan leather pack has pockets in the back, an O-ring to attach extra bags, and plastic compartments for pepperoni or small snacks, making it easy to move without fuss, even in Oregon rain. It’s the kind of company you notice for couple hours of pet care that keeps everything handy and organized.
Best Hands-Free Leash
Taking dogs for a walk in the park is easier with a hands-free leash that keeps movements coordinated and avoids complicated tangles. WIRED reviewer Haley Sprankle loves Zee.Dog’s sturdy, customizable leash with a loop and buckle that fits waist or shoulder, letting you enjoy brunch or sit on a chair while keeping your dog safely unleashed but controlled. The E-Zee Lock clip locks the harness in place, making it simpler than a hand-held leash for stationary activities or active walks.
Best Pet Tracker
Keeping your pet safe is easier with trackers like Jiobit, Whistle Fi Series 2, or Series 3, which come in different shapes and sizes and clip comfortably to a collar. WIRED senior editor Adrienne So recommends these smart devices because they track dogs in real-time using GPS, Wi-Fi, cellular networks, or LTE, alerting you if your pet escapes to a neighbor’s house or runs onto a road. Many have built-in lights for off-leash walks in the dark, are sturdy, water-resistant, and smaller, lighter, with long battery life and easy charge, letting you experience peace of mind while monitoring your dog’s fitness and home safety.
Get a Bark Collar (If You Need It)
If your dog’s barks at night or around neighbors become annoying, a barked-at habit can be managed with the right collar. WIRED senior writer Scott Gilbertson reported using a collar on his Jack Russell–pit bull mix, which helped stop excessive barking in just a few weeks. Some collars use shock, protective sprays, or mist triggered by the pup’s nose, and they work with electric fence systems to guide dogs safely. Proper use keeps behavior controlled without hurting your dog, allowing them to see clearly and use their eyesight while preventing people from being disturbed by constant barks.
Best Subscription Box
A good, affordable way to keep your dog happy is BarkBox, a subscription company that sends fun toys and treats every month. Each box comes with tennis balls, tug ropes, rubber toys, and chewy treat bags designed to vaporize boredom in minutes while keeping your dog’s teeth safe—no break or choke hazards. Many dogs loved the toys and treats, and it’s important to note that BarkBox sends new designs each month, so your pet is always excited. You can subscribe directly to the company or buy through Amazon to keep a steady supply of toys and treats for your dog.
Our Favorite Dog Boots
Protecting your dog’s pup’s paws is easy with the right boots, especially on walks, camping, or rugged trails. I’ve tested Ruffwear’s Grip Trex boots on Oregon trails with sharp volcanic glass, and even my 70-pound dog had no cut or flopping paws. The Velcro ankle straps make them easy to carry and train, while the breathable upper and grippy Vibram sole keep your dog steady on slip-prone terrain. They are washable, reflective for low light, and perfect for small or large dogs, so every step is safe, comfortable, and ready for adventure—just like WIRED senior editor Adrienne So recommends for outings in the car or outdoors.
Best Virtual Fence
Keeping your dog safe while giving freedom can be done with a GPS-based collar like SpotOn. This electric fence or virtual fence system uses a wire-free perimeter around your property, which can cover an acre or more, and lets you set a warning room with a low beep and brighter beep before any shock-based correction. The rechargeable collar has prongs for shock, rumble, or sound noises, and you can train your dog to return using treats, a whistle, or app commands on your phone. Even a golden retriever like Frank, who might be hare-brained and wandering, learns recall quickly, and the subscription for $10 per month adds GPS tracking, barrier mode, and charge alerts every 24 hours, keeping your pup safe while exploring freely.
Great Treats
Treating your pup right means choosing snacks that are both tasty and healthy. I’ve found that Icelandic+ Mini Cod Fish Chips and cod fish chips from Iceland are wild-caught, sustainably sourced, and keep the fishiness light so it doesn’t hit your nostrils too strong. Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Raw Treats and Maev Human-Grade Freeze-Dried Treats offer raw dog food in small pieces that are USDA-certified, including beef liver, beef tripe, and other protein-rich ingredients. WagWell Treat Party Box brings freeze-dried treats in fun flavors like beef and cheese, making snack time a moment your dog darts to, munched happily from the bag or straight from the freezer, saving space while keeping ingredients fresh.
Other Dog Accessories We’ve Tested
Keeping your pet safe in a car is just as important as making them comfortable. We tested several pet seatbelts and restraints that attach to your vehicle’s car seat anchors, providing safety similar to a baby car seat. The Tavo Dupree pet carrier is an airline-compliant carry-on with a sturdy, structured bag and a removable memory foam bed, perfect for small pets up to 20 pounds. Thoughtful features like an AirTag holder and a tight fit make this option ideal for trips, whether it’s a puppy, tortoiseshell cat, or older animal.
For everyday comfort at home, we explored wool dog beds like the Molly Mutt, which offers anti-microbial and anti-odor properties, perfect for a six-month-old wet puppy or a nap-loving pup. The insert dries quickly in the sunshine, keeping your housebroken pet odor-free with zero-maintenance. Scott Gilbertson also noted how the wool absorbs water and dries fast, maintaining a clean and comfy spot for pets of all sizes.
Travel gear for longer trips is another must-have. We tested carry-on dog carriers like Dagne Dover’s Kyoto Carrier, which offers a horizontal shape for a dog’s carrier, and Roverlund’s updated system with organizational pockets and a luggage strap. Both handle smaller dogs up to 15 pounds, and features like orange accents and a wider base prevent the carrier from being tipped or toppled, giving pups a secure space on the road or in the air.
Oral and paw care are also part of enhancing a pup’s life. PetSmile toothpaste in London Broil flavor earned high marks for brushing a dog’s teeth and tongue, meeting Veterinary Oral Health Council (VOHC) standards during testing and trials. For paw protection, WagWellies and paw shoes shield paws from winter snow, ice, or hot summer pavement, while balm keeps paws from becoming crackly or rough, with straps and holes for toes ensuring a comfortable fit.
Finally, we explored tech-forward accessories like the PetSafe Stay & Play wireless virtual pet fence, providing a hassle-free barrier for pets at a campground or Airbnb, and heated dog vests from Ororo and Koldpwoof, which use battery-powered jackets to keep short-haired dogs warm in cold climates. For walking, the Fable Magic Dog Leash with Waste Bag Holder and Earth Rated Dog Poop Bag Holder offer hands-free convenience, silicone grips, and adjustable short leash lengths, making everyday outings safer and more comfortable for both pet and owner.
How can I enrich my dog’s life?
Taking your dog for a walk in a new environment, using toys and puzzles, and allowing them to socialise with other dogs and humans are all great enrichment activities. There are lots of ways to provide enriching activities for your dog, and you don’t need to spend money.
What is the 7 7 7 rule for dogs?
The 7-7-7 rule breaks the first 21 days into three key phases to guide a dog’s emotional and social adjustment: 👉Days 1–7: Settling In – Keep things calm and consistent. Limit space, follow a simple routine, and let the dog come to you. Bonding starts with trust—not pressure.
How can I improve my dog’s life?
Keep them lean, keep them mentally stimulated as much as physically stimulated (teach them tricks, train, give them a job, take new routes on walks) is extremely good for their brain, dental health , keep a low-stress home for them.
How to give a puppy its best life?
- Tip five: Ensure they maintain a healthy weight. …
- Tip six: Provide fresh, clean water daily. …
- Tip seven: Consider their individual personality. …
- Tip eight: Train them to build their confidence. …
- Tip nine: Regular visits to the vet and groomer. …
- Tip 10: Show them love and affection