X-Pen
For the safety of your puppy, other human and/or furry family members, the xpen is a great safe space to keep your little pup when you can't keep an eye on her.
X-pens are easy to find on Amazon, your local pet store, or gently used in community groups.
Dog Crate
Give some thought to the size of your puppy now, and they're expected size as they grow and mature. I prefer an indoor wire crate for rest and a Ruffland crate for travel.
Wire Crate
These are easy to find on Amazon, your local pet store, or gently used in community groups. For a full size GSD, I prefer the large. Don't forget the flat yoga style mat for footing and comfort.
Ruffland travel crate
The only travel crate I use! You can find them gently used in community groups. Check them out https://rufflandkennels.com
Food & Treats
Nutrition is number one in a working dog! You'll likely transition from puppy kibble to preferably raw and or adult kibble at some point. It is important you do your homework and choose a protein and filler that works well for your puppy/dog. We recommend and support only the highest level of nutrition and recommend raw feeding 100%. Find what works well for your pup. I'm always here to help.
Taste of The Wild Pacific Stream Puppy
Salmon based protein. This is the food I start the pups on along with raw beef and goat milk. Order a bag and slowly, I repeat slowly switch to kibble of your choice to prevent any GI upset.
Learn more about the nutrition content here: https://www.tasteofthewildpetfood.com/taste-of-the-wild/grain-free/dog-formulas/pacific-stream-puppy-recipe-with-smoke-flavored-salmon/
N&D Ocean med/maxi
You'll find yourself training your young pup A LOT!! I use hot dogs, mozzarella cheese bits, cooked meat and other goodies sparingly. But my go-to is N&D. It's oily, stinky and the pups love it! (be sure to get the med/max size kibble)
Learn more about the nutrition content here: https://www.farmina.com/us/eshop/dog-food/n&d-ocean-canine/584-cod,-spelt,-oats-&-orange-adult-medium-&-maxi.html
Equipment & Supplies
We all have our preferences. My hope is to get you started off right on your new working line german shepherd puppy adventure with the most success! Keep in touch! Reach out if you have questions, looking for more ideas or help.
Place Bed
I like the vehoo chew proof elevated bed. They are durable and long lasting. Teach your puppy "place" and she can hang out with the family, and stay out of trouble. These are easy to find on Amazon, your local pet store, or gently used in community groups.
Learn more at: https://www.veehoo.com/
Baby Gate
Obvious right? Your puppy is much like a toddler. They are NOT to be left unattended or allowed free access to the home. Invest in one now, you won't regret it later. These are easy to find on Amazon, or gently used in community groups.
Treat Pouch
Trust me. You'll want one! This is my favorite. However higher price point.
Of course you can find a more affordable alternative on Amazon, your local pet store, or gently used in community groups.
Learn more about my favorite pouch at:https://www.voilapets.com/
Collars
Puppies grow fast! And each pup is different. Start with a flat nylon collar. I like a slip lead collar to train pups and young dogs. I use a prong collar for protection and strong dogs who need more support. Fur saver for schutzhund work.
I personally only use a harness for building frustration in protection & tracking.
Work with your trainer to find the best collar for training, and at-home collar for your pup and you.
Leashes
A variety of leashes:
- long line 20-50' for obedience work, recall, long downs, and distance work
- dragline 12-15' designed to let the pup drag a leash for more freedom, but allows you more control and correction. (no loop handle)
- tie-down (not tie out) We use a tie down cable w/an eye hook into the wall. This allows pup to be under control, while you carry on with life.
- Obedience leash - 4-6ft max length. Thin and light, easy to manage.
Some of my fave gear can be found at: www.k9tacticalgear.com
Chews, Puzzles & Toys - Oh MY!
This is a big topic! And a very personal choice. A few of our favorites include:
- Ugly Chews - hair on cowhide
- Soup bones/knuckle bones (from a butcher - NOT from China!)
- Bully sticks
- Cow ears
- Toppl
- puzzle/maz feeders
- starmark treat dispensing bob-a-lot
Find out more at:
Use code 'CCLINE1974' for free shipping