The Go Home Know
My personal recommendations
Here is a list of some items that I highly recommend. Please keep in mind that these are just suggestions, and you should choose what works best for you and your family.
In our household, we prefer using playpens over crates during the initial stages. We believe it provides the puppy with a safe space to call their own, while also allowing room for play and a designated area for potty breaks when life or work requires us to be away from home for extended periods.
We utilize a free-choice feeding approach, but establishing a feeding schedule can be beneficial for potty training.
**Food Overview:** We provide our mothers and puppies with high-quality nutrition. Although Victor experienced a recall in the fall of 2023, I had been using their products for over six years without issues, and fortunately, none of my dogs were impacted by the recall. During that time, I temporarily switched to Purina Pro Plan 30/20, Diamond Naturals, and 4Health. However, I returned to Victor food afterward and have been pleased with the results. Currently, our puppies are being fed the High Pro Plus formula, and they are thriving on it. (Victor high pro plus link) Our adults are on a lower fat food ( Ocean fish formula link ) also from Victor.
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As you may know, the puppies are currently litter box trained. If you would like to continue this practice until they are around four months old—when they typically gain better control over their bathroom habits—here are some recommendations. Using an affordable playpen can provide the puppies with space to move, play, and use the litter box while promoting healthy habits and maintaining consistency in their training.
Here are two different playpens. One is a little more heavy duty. We use both frequently.
(Paypen link 1)
These waterproof mats serve as an invaluable liner for the playpen. Their exceptional quality has consistently met my needs, and I have relied on them for several years.
(Waterproof mat link 2)
The litter box I use I get from TSC or any farm store they are actually rabbit trays they are super cheap and work great.
(Litter box/Rabbit tray link)
The litter I get is also sold at TSC or any local farm store it’s wood pellet bedding. It’s about 6$ for 40lbs
(Litter Pellets Link)
What comes with the puppy?
Here is a list of what goes home on pick up day. I've provided links to a few documents to review.
In the puppy folder…
All medical & veterinary records
A grooming report card. (Link)
Puppy tendencies 101 (funny & informative) (Link)
Signed copy of my health guarantee (Link)
Limited Registration (if previously discussed)
Microchip information
Blanket that smells like mom & siblings
Little baggie of food
My favorite puppy shampoo
Puppy treats
Toys your puppy likes
Natural chew toys
A small starter litter box w/ litter
For my little ones traveling long distances I’ve also included some potty & cleaning supplies just in case.
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Just a few of my favorites
Here is a link to our Amazon wish list. These are all things we use on a regular basis and love. (Amazon Link)
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