FAQ: Supplies for dogs

See a vet first, as it can be a sign of a health problem. While the cause is being found, waterproof bed covers, absorbent pads and more frequent trips outside help.

Softer rubber toys, plush toys and snuffle mats suit older dogs with more sensitive teeth. Mental stimulation matters as much as exercise for a senior, just at a gentler level.

Don't move furniture, the bed or the bowls, so the dog can find its way easily. Block stairs with gates, and with a deaf dog use hand signals and approach where it can see you so you don't startle it.

It isn't only size: small dogs get smaller kibble, lighter collars and smaller toys, while large dogs need stronger leashes, tougher toys and beds with a thicker base. Always check the weight or size guidance, not just the product name.

A large dog bites hard and can quickly tear apart a toy made for small dogs and swallow the pieces. Choose toys by your dog's weight and chewing strength, and throw away balls that are too small, as they can get stuck in the throat.

A harness rather than a collar is usually recommended for flat-faced dogs, so no pressure is put on the airway. Wider, shallow bowls suit them, and cooling mats help in hot weather, as they cope poorly with heat.

Giant breeds need a strong harness and leash with reliable buckles, a large, thick orthopaedic bed, big bowls and food made for large breeds. Check the maximum weight and dimensions before buying.

Wide collars or martingale collars, which a narrow head can't slip out of, are often recommended for sighthounds. Because of their thin coat and low body fat, warm clothing in cold weather and a soft bed are useful.

Long-haired dogs need combs and brushes suited to the coat, detangling products and a gentle shampoo. For the collar, a rounded or smooth model tangles the coat less.

In a flat it is worth having a comfortable bed in a quiet spot, puzzles and chews that help the dog settle when left alone, and a mat by the door for cleaning paws. Enough walks still matter most.

An outdoor dog needs an insulated kennel raised off the ground, a water bowl that doesn't tip over or freeze in winter, and permanent shade in summer. The kennel should let the dog turn around but not be so big that it can't stay warm in winter.

The same as for any dog: food, bowls, a bed, a collar or harness with an ID tag and a leash. For shelter dogs it is worth getting an escape-resistant harness, because in the first weeks they may get frightened and try to bolt.

Set up a quiet spot with a bed where the dog can rest undisturbed, and keep a steady routine for the first weeks. Snuffle mats and chews help it calm down; introduce new people and places gradually.

For the first days, give the same food the dog had at the shelter to avoid digestive upsets. If you want to change it, do so gradually over about a week.

Use a well-fitting, escape-resistant harness and a leash with a secure clip; for the first weeks you can attach the leash at two points. Always have an ID tag with your phone number and check that the microchip details in the register are correct.

Ideally each dog has its own bowls, bed and collar or harness, to avoid conflicts over resources. Keep more toys and chews than there are dogs, and buying food in larger packs often pays off.

Some things, like a water fountain or a bed, can be shared, but food, parasite prevention and shampoos must be made for the specific species. Some flea and tick products for dogs are poisonous to cats.

Put the bed in a quiet, draught-free spot where the dog can see the family without being disturbed all the time. Places next to a radiator, the front door or a busy walkway are not suitable.

Wash food and water bowls daily, rubber and plastic toys weekly, and the bed cover every week or two. Clean more often after illness or parasite treatment, or when the dog comes home very dirty.

Choose products without strong fragrances and rinse surfaces the dog lies on or eats from well. Use products containing chlorine, phenol or essential oils with care, and let surfaces dry before letting the dog back in.