What you need to keep your dog happy and healthy

The family dog is just that part of the family. they're companions and friends who love you unconditionally, are there for you in good days and bad and rely heavily on you for their health and well-being.

Keep your canine friend happy and healthy with our Every Day Low Prices.

Dog food

There are many factors you need to consider when choosing the food you feed your dog, including your pet's age, activity level and general health. Younger dogs have different nutritional needs than a senior dog. Overweight dogs should be fed food that helps keep their weight down while providing the proper nutrition. Dogs with allergies or dental issues have specific needs. you'll also need a properly sized bowl for food and water.

As with anything involving your pet, you should discuss your dog's food needs with your veterinarian. We have a complete selection of both dry and wet food available in assorted brands and flavors.

dog treats and chews

Whether you're training a puppy or want to reward your pet for being good, dog treats and chews are important. Dog chews strengthen teeth and help remove plaque and tartar buildup through chewing.

Dog treats are similar to the dry food you feed your dog, but these are sometimes flavored differently, such as with bacon or cheese. Bone-shaped biscuits are popular with dogs, as are meat-flavored treats. Rawhide chews help your dog's teeth while keeping them occupied. There are even some treats that taste like peanut butter, which seems to be another flavor dogs love.

Dog beds

Even though your dog may like being with you on your bed or sofa, it should have a bed to call its own. These beds can be in a number of shapes, including round, rectangular or oval beds that are soft and fluffy, large pillow-like beds or hammock-like beds. These beds can go in the corner of the room, inside a dog house or anywhere you want your dog to sleep.

Most beds have removable covers to be washed and dried as needed. Some dog beds offer orthopedic benefits, which are ideal for older dogs, and can keep your pet warm on cold nights. Beds are available based on the weight of your dog, ranging from extra small for dogs up to 10 pounds and going up to 2XL for dogs that weigh more than 100 pounds.

Dog toys

In addition to treats, you want to keep your dog happy by giving it a play toy. Just about every dog loves to play with balls, and tennis balls are generally fine for larger dogs. However, tennis balls are filled with compressed gas to help keep them bouncy, and some dogs are allergic to this gas. Look for balls that are made specifically for dogs. Chew toys are a terrific thing to give them to help maintain their dental health, and dogs love toys that make noise, such as squeaky toys. Rubber and plush toys are good choices too. Make sure any toys you buy are sized appropriately for your dog and don't contain anything that can make your pet choke.

Other dog-related items

Food, treats, chews, beds and toys are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to items you should have for your dog. Other things to consider include:

• Flea and tick medication: Dogs are prone to getting fleas. Dogs that live near or go into wooded area run the risk of getting ticks. We have collars, powders, shampoos, pills and sprays you can use to keep these pests down to a minimum.
• Collars and leashes: Walking your dog is one of the best bonding moments you can enjoy. Make sure to choose a collar that's comfortable on your dog yet offers enough restraint if the need arises. Most collars (and leashes) are leather or nylon, but there are other options. Choose a leash that allows your dog to have some freedom but not enough that you lose control of it.
• Grooming supplies: Going to a professional groomer is something most dogs need to do from time to time. Between those times, it's a good idea to have a slicker-style brush to help your dog maintain a healthy coat and reduce shedding. Nail clippers specific to dogs is a good thing to have on hand too. And of course dog clippers are essential for keeping your dog's fur at a comfortable length.
• Houses: If you want your dog to be an outside dog, a roomy house is a necessity. Your dog's house should be big enough for it to stand up in and lie completely prone without touching the house. We offer different sizes of houses made from a number of materials, including wood and plastic.
• Crates, carriers and kennels: When training your dog or when it has to be transported to the veterinarian, a carrier, crate or kennel is necessary. Carriers are usually enclosed on three side and on the top and bottom and feature a gated door. Crates and kennels are most often metal wire all around and keep your dog confined from areas where it's not supposed to be.