JAPPYTOUTOU.COM • Blog
BEGINNER'S GUIDE • May 2025
First Dog: The 10 Essential Accessories to Get Started
Have you just adopted a dog or are you planning to welcome one for the first time? Congratulations! To make sure you don't forget anything and start off on the right foot, here is the complete list of 10 essential accessories — along with tips on how to choose them.
Keywords: first dog accessories • what do you need for a dog • essential list for beginner dog owners • adopting a dog first purchases • beginner dog equipment
Bringing a dog home is a wonderful upheaval. Curious glances, a tail that never stops wagging, contagious energy... And also, it must be said, some worries: do I have everything I need? Where do I start?
Between pet stores offering entire aisles of products and conflicting advice on the internet, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. The truth is, you don't need everything — but some accessories are truly essential from day one.
Whether you're adopting a puppy or an adult dog, here are the 10 essentials to welcome your new companion, provide them with the comfort they need, and start your life together on the best possible foundation.
1. Preparing before the dog arrives
The classic mistake of a first-time owner: buying everything in the days following the dog's arrival, in emergency mode. The result: ill-considered purchases, unsuitable accessories, stress for everyone.
The right approach: prepare the essentials BEFORE the arrival. Your dog will need to find a structured space, with their bowl, resting place, and first accessories already in place. This reassuring environment helps them understand that they have arrived home.
A few days before the arrival, ask yourself these questions:
• What is my dog's adult size? (Essential for choosing the right size accessories.)
• Is it a puppy or an adult? (Some accessories differ depending on age and developmental stage.)
• What is my realistic monthly budget for maintenance? (This helps prioritize purchases.)
• Are there children or other animals at home? (Impacts the choice of leash type, harness, etc.)
2. The 10 essential accessories
Here is our annotated selection, ranked by priority. Each entry includes what you need to know to choose wisely.
01 [COLLAR] The identification collar PRIORITY 1 — From day one
This is the number one accessory, and it is often legally mandatory. The identification collar carries a tag with the dog's name and the owner's phone number. It must be comfortable (adjustable, soft material), well-fitted (the two-finger rule), and durable. Choose a model appropriate for your dog's size — neither too tight nor too loose. For puppies, opt for an adjustable collar that will adapt to their growth.
At JappyToutou: JappyToutou collar range: classic, colorful, and luminous models, available in all sizes.
02 [HARNESS] The Y-harness PRIORITY 1 — For all walks
Unlike a collar, the harness is the accessory you'll attach the leash to for walks. The Y-shaped model is the most recommended: it leaves the shoulders free, doesn't compress the trachea, and prevents injuries in case of pulling. It's easy to put on without going over the head — a real plus for dogs new to wearing a harness. Essential from the first outing.
At JappyToutou: JappyToutou Y-harness: comfortable, adjustable, available in several sizes for all body types.
03 [LEASH] The walking leash PRIORITY 1 — From day one
The classic leash (1.5 to 2 meters) is the basic tool for any walk in urban or semi-urban areas. It allows you to keep your dog safely by your side. Choose a strong leash that is comfortable to hold and suited to your dog's size: a thin leash for a chihuahua, a thick reinforced leash for a labrador. Avoid retractable leashes for the first few weeks — your dog needs to learn how to walk on a leash first.
At JappyToutou: JappyToutou leashes: robust and stylish, available in various lengths and colors.
04 [BOWLS] Water and food bowls PRIORITY 1 — From day one
Two separate bowls are essential: one for food, one for fresh water, available at all times. Choose stable bowls (non-slip bottom), easy to clean (stainless steel or ceramic preferred), and appropriately sized for your dog. For large breeds, an elevated bowl can prevent digestion problems. For puppies, opt for a low-sided bowl for easy access.
At JappyToutou: Tip: change the water at least twice a day and wash the bowls daily.
05 [BEDDING] The bed or sleeping area PRIORITY 2 — Before the first night
Your dog needs their own space where they feel safe and can rest undisturbed. A bed or a soft blanket in a quiet corner of the house serves this purpose. For a puppy, a confined space (like a playpen or a crate with an open door) can help during the adjustment period. Place a piece of clothing with your scent there to reassure them during the first few nights.
At JappyToutou: Tip: avoid beds that are too big initially — a contained space is more reassuring for a puppy.
06 [LEASH] The Long Leash for Training PRIORITY 2 — From the first few weeks
The long leash (5 to 10 meters) is the number one tool for teaching recall — the most important command for your dog's safety. From the first outings in open spaces, it allows your dog to explore freely while remaining under your control. Start with a 5-meter leash in a quiet area, then progress to 10 meters in a more open environment. It's a minimal investment for an immense benefit.
At JappyToutou: JappyToutou Long Leashes: 5 to 10 meters, lightweight and sturdy, ideal for recall training.
07 [TOYS] Toys and Stimulation Items PRIORITY 2 — Within the first week
Play is essential for your dog's physical and mental development, especially for puppies. Plan for a minimum of: a chew toy (for teething puppies), an interactive toy (ball, rope, frisbee), and if possible, a food puzzle for mental stimulation. Play also strengthens your bond: playing together is one of the best ways to quickly build a trusting relationship.
At JappyToutou: Tip: vary toys regularly to maintain your dog's interest.
08 [HYGIENE] Hygiene and Grooming Accessories PRIORITY 2 — Within the first week
Brush or comb suitable for coat type, gentle dog shampoo, nail clippers, ear cleaning product... Regular hygiene is essential for your dog's health and well-being. Accustom him to handling from the moment he arrives: paws, ears, mouth. A dog accustomed to grooming early on will be much more cooperative throughout his life. For long-haired dogs, plan for daily brushing.
At JappyToutou: Tip: grooming is also a moment of bonding — take advantage of it to handle him gently.
09 [SAFETY] Safety and Travel Accessories PRIORITY 3 — According to your needs
If you use your car regularly, equip yourself with a tether leash or a canine seat belt to transport your dog safely. For night walks, an LED light-up collar or a light-up attachment on the harness significantly increases your dog's visibility. These accessories are often forgotten during initial purchases, but they can be crucial for your companion's safety.
At JappyToutou: JappyToutou safety leashes and LED collars: for peaceful outings at any time.
10 [IDENTIFICATION] Microchip and Documents PRIORITY 1 — Mandatory
The microchip (subcutaneous transponder) is mandatory in most European countries. If your dog is not yet microchipped at adoption, visit your vet within the first few days. It's painless, lasts the dog's entire life, and allows him to be found if lost. Combine it with registration in a national census file and remember to update your contact information if you move.
At JappyToutou: Reminder: a collar with a tag remains essential in addition to the microchip — it allows for immediate identification without a scanning device.
3. Establish a realistic budget for the first year
Acquiring basic accessories represents an initial investment that many underestimate. Here is a realistic estimate to help you plan:
|
Accessory |
Low Range |
High Range |
|
Collar + tag |
10 EUR |
30 EUR |
|
Y-Harness |
20 EUR |
50 EUR |
|
Walking Leash |
10 EUR |
30 EUR |
|
Bowls (x2) |
10 EUR |
30 EUR |
|
Basket / bedding |
20 EUR |
80 EUR |
|
Training leash |
10 EUR |
25 EUR |
|
Toys (starter pack) |
15 EUR |
40 EUR |
|
Hygiene accessories |
20 EUR |
50 EUR |
|
Car safety / LED |
10 EUR |
30 EUR |
|
Microchip (vet) |
50 EUR |
80 EUR |
|
ESTIMATED TOTAL |
175 EUR |
445 EUR |
Good to know: This budget does not include recurring veterinary costs (vaccinations, deworming, spaying/neutering), food, or any boarding or daycare expenses. Also, plan for a small reserve for unexpected events — a dog can sometimes bring surprises!
4. Useful resources: vet, trainer, insurance
Find a good vet
As soon as your dog arrives, find a trusted vet in your area. The first appointment is an opportunity for a complete health check-up, to verify vaccinations and deworming, and to ask all your questions as a new owner. Don't wait until your dog is sick to consult.
Call on a dog trainer
One or two group lessons with a certified trainer in the first few weeks can save you months of learning. Basic training (sit, stay, recall, leash walking) is much easier to implement early on than to correct bad habits once they're established.
Pet health insurance
Veterinary costs can be substantial in case of illness or accident. Pet health insurance can protect you against significant expenses. Compare the offers available in your country — formulas vary enormously in terms of coverage and price.
5. Downloadable checklist: the 10 essentials
Before your dog arrives, make sure you have planned for:
v Identification collar with engraved tag
v Y-harness adapted to its size
v Sturdy and comfortable walking leash
v Stable and easy-to-clean water and food bowls
v Comfortable bed in a quiet area
v Training leash 5 to 10 meters long for recall training
v Suitable toys (chew toys, interactive, mental stimulation)
v Hygiene accessories (brush, shampoo, nail clippers)
v Safety accessories (car leash or LED collar)
v Veterinary appointment made for the first health check-up
Conclusion: the perfect list doesn't exist — but preparation does
Being well-equipped is important. But what will really make a difference in your life with your dog is the time you dedicate to them, the consistency of your training, and the quality of your bond. Accessories are tools — your presence is the true foundation.
So yes, invest in good accessories. But most importantly, enjoy every walk, every moment of play, every complicit glance. That's where the beautiful adventure truly begins.
Everything you need to get started, all in one place
Find all the essentials to welcome your first dog in the best conditions on JappyToutou.com:
• Y-harnesses — the essential companion for all your walks
•• Training leash — to teach recall in the first few weeks
• Collars and tags — mandatory identification, with added style
• Rechargeable LED collar — maximum safety for night outings
Fast delivery guaranteed • 30-day money-back guarantee • 7/7 customer service
2025 JappyToutou.com • All rights reserved • Article written by the JappyToutou team