FAQ: Supplies for dogs

Put paper and cardboard packaging in the paper bin and rinsed cans in the plastic and metal packaging bin. Multi-layer food bags often can't be recycled with paper, so check the marking on the pack.

Natural materials such as cotton, hemp or natural rubber are often pleasant and kinder to the environment, but not always more durable. Choose by purpose: for outdoor gear and heavy chewers, synthetic materials are sometimes the better fit.

It is worth keeping at least a week's supply of food, poop bags and essential medicines, so you don't have to rush if a delivery is late. A spare leash and a collar with an ID tag also help if the main ones break or get lost.

Fakes do occur among pet products, especially parasite treatments. Buy from shops that list their company details, and check that the packaging, labelling and batch number look right; if in doubt, contact the manufacturer or distributor.

Online it is easier to compare prices and choice, and heavy bags are delivered to your door. In a physical shop you can try a harness, clothing or bed on your dog and take it home straight away, so many owners use both.

Go by measurements, weight, coat type and temperament rather than breed: measure the neck, chest and back and weigh the dog. Mixed breeds use the same products as purebreds; just pick the size from the real measurements.

Before the baby arrives, get the dog used to new smells and sounds, and separate the nursery or cot area with safety gates. Give the dog a quiet place with a bed and chews where it can rest undisturbed, and never leave the baby and dog alone together.

Use a non-slip mat in the bath, lukewarm water and a gentle shampoo, keep it away from the eyes, and make baths short with treats as rewards. Build up gradually, starting with washing the paws and dry runs in an empty bath.

First squeeze out the coat well with an absorbent microfibre towel, then use a hairdryer on a cool or warm setting held away from the skin. A pet dryer helps with thick coats, and don't take a wet dog outside in winter.

Such dogs often benefit from a harness with a handle or support slings, non-slip mats, a low orthopaedic bed and sometimes a dog wheelchair. It is best to choose the equipment together with a vet or rehabilitation specialist.

You will need a show lead, grooming products suited to the coat, a folding crate or pen, water and treats. Start preparing the coat well in advance and ask the breed club or experienced exhibitors for advice.

Working dogs benefit from bright reflective vests so they are visible in the field, strong long leads, a GPS tracker and higher-energy food for active dogs. After work outdoors, always check the paws, ears and coat for ticks and injuries.

Special hygiene pants, washable throws and shorter on-leash walks away from other dogs help while she is in season. The pants keep things clean but don't prevent mating.

Many bed covers, blankets, soft toys and fabric leashes can go in the washing machine if the label allows it. Use a gentle, fragrance-free detergent, skip fabric softener and shake out the hair before washing.

Many dogs avoid new things at first because of the unfamiliar smell or feel. Put a familiar blanket on the new bed, put the harness on briefly with a treat and praise; if the dog is clearly uncomfortable, check the size.

Household dishes are fine if they are stable, not chipped and the right size, but keep and wash them separately from the family's dishes. Dog bowls often have a non-slip base and are harder to tip over.

Make sure the dog has an ID tag with your phone number, that its microchip details in the register are up to date, and keep recent photos of it on your phone. If the dog goes missing, notify the register, local shelters and vet clinics and post a notice.

Skin can dry out during the heating season, so bathe the dog less often and use a moisturising shampoo or conditioner. Regular brushing spreads the skin's natural oils; if dandruff or itching appears, ask a vet.

Note the dates in your phone calendar with a reminder, and the pet passport entries help you keep track of vaccinations. Many clinics send reminders, so leave them your contact details.

Prepare a separate room or crate with a bed, water and a long-lasting chew where the dog can stay if the noise bothers it. Ask guests not to feed the dog from the table and don't let children disturb it when it withdraws.