The Ultimate Guide to Dog Accessories Essentials for Comfort, Safety & Style

What are dog accessories?
As technology advances, we are really spoilt for choice when buying aids, equipment, and accessories to improve the quality of life for our pets. This article aims to guide you through the intricacies of the modern accessories that will make your dog safer, healthier, happier and more comfortable.

Starting with the types of bedding, we look at bowls, feeders, collars, leads and leashes, harnesses, clothing and apparel, travelling and whelping crates, playpens, toiletries, toys, and grooming kits.

 

Why do pet owners buy dog accessories?
We have passed the stage where dog accessories are merely a fad or to make animals prance around in various adornments. Pet owners look for functional and safety accessories, fun accessories, and fashionable accessories that let the dog feel loved and make the owner feel proud.

Dog beds and bedding

Beds
The scientific study of animal behaviour, called ethology, has revealed the significant role that a proper dog bed and bedding plays in the demeanour and conduct of our pets. Pet owners have also realised that their dogs are healthier and happier if they have their own sanctuary with a comfortable dog bed.

Amongst other benefits, a good bed reduces pressure on the dog’s skin and joints, supports the body in the right places for rejuvenating rest, relieves back and joint pain, contributes to healthy growth, helps with odour control, prevents heat loss or overheating, relieves allergies and respiratory complications, and avoids contamination.

 

Bedding
In its simplest form, suitable bedding such as blankets, pillows, bolsters, and heating and cooling pads, provide comfort and warmth. If constructed properly, bedding reduces irritability and stress, prevents bruising and infections, retains moisture, and regulates the temperature of the dog’s bed. We recommend that each dog has at least two sets of bedding. While one set is being cleaned and dried, the other set is available. It also allows the bedding to stay fresh, and bacteria odour free.

Bowls
It seems self evident that separate food and water bowls are a basic part of dog accessories, yet it is surprising how often some elementary principles are overlooked when selecting the right bowls for our dogs.

Slip resistance:
Have you ever watched an energetic puppy chasing after its bowl? While it is undoubtedly cute, it is no fun for the dog if his food keeps getting away from him.

Depth and height of a dog’s bowl:
If the bowl is too shallow or tips over easily, the food will be scattered all over the place and your dog will become a messy eater. Tall dogs will also appreciate a bowl that is raised somewhat, otherwise they will tend to lie down while eating. A larger bowl will allow your dog to pick through his food, rather than just “breathing it in” one gulp at a time.

Hygiene
While most plastics are fine, stainless steel bowls arguably top the hygiene factor, last longer and stay presentable for much longer.

 

Crates

Whelping box
Much like putting your baby in a cot, a whelping box or crate helps keep your puppy warm, safe secure, and out of trouble when left alone for a while. Smaller dogs often like the snug feel of a crate, especially when they sleep in the room with you.

Travel crates
Travel crates are designed specifically for safely travelling by car or train and fit easily into your vehicle. They serve the same purpose as a dog guard or car seat harness while giving the dog its own secure space. Some are designed to fold up and fit into the boot of the car when not in use. There are different designs for carrying your dog or travelling by air or separate from you.

Make sure your dog’s head or collar does not get entangled in the mesh or ventilating holes in the crate.

 

Playpens
Playpens are a great idea to keep your puppy safe and out of the way when your attention is required elsewhere or while you are cleaning the house. A playpen gives them plenty of space to move around and play or exercise while containing them while you are busy.

Child gates
Child gates are not only perfect for puppies, they can even block larger dogs from entering no go areas. Dogs quickly learn their boundaries and will soon respect these gates. Until then, these gates must be strong enough to prevent injury to budding escape artists, especially at the top of the stairs.

Also, make sure their heads and collars do not get stuck between slats if they push their heads through.

 

Clothing and apparel
There is an ever expanding choice of garments, protective clothing, and accessories for dogs. This begs the question: Does my dog need clothes?

While some might think of this as an extravagance because dogs have been equipped with their own fur coats, there are many dogs with lighter layers than others who need some additional protection. Dog clothing can be divided roughly into the following categories:  Warming clothes, safety and protective clothing, recovery garments, training gear, and clothes for show. 

 

Warming clothes:
As exotic breeds spread around the globe, many dogs find themselves in climates for which they are not genetically suited. While short haired dogs need extra clothing for warmth, their long haired counterparts may need protective clothing to keep them dry or clean.

Safety and protective gear:
Many working dogs need protection from mud, cold, swimming lifesaving gear, and shielding them from fire or heat.

Recovery garments:
Dogs recovering from surgery often need vests or overcoats to prevent them from licking the wounds or injuring themselves.

Training gear:
Dogs doing agility training, running and jumping through or over obstacles, may need protective clothing such as boots or padded vests to protect their paws, joints and bodies from injury.

Clothes for the show:
For dog owners who like to dress up their dogs, it is important to choose outfits made from comfortable, soft, and breathable fabrics that do not irritate the skin. Clothing should fit properly and not impede their movement and ability to do their ablutions. Consider the weather and temperature, making sure the dog does not overheat.

Collars
Dog collars are much more than just colourful accessories to be worn like a necklace. They serve many functional, medical, identification, and behavioural purposes.

Calming collars:
Anxious and nervous dogs can benefit a great deal from a collar that is filled with herbs that have a soothing aroma. Just remember that some herbs are toxic to dogs and should be avoided.

Tick and flea collars:
Collars filled with slow release ingredients will protect dogs from ticks, fleas, and other parasites.

Recovery collars:
Dogs recovering from surgery or open wounds benefit from recovery collars that shield the wound from injury and prevent the dog from licking the wound or removing sutures. Recovery collars can be inflatable, made from soft fabrics, or have a reverse cone shape to prevent the dog from entering narrow spaces.

Reflective collars:
If you jog early in the morning or in the evenings when ambient light is poor, it is advisable to fit your dog with a reflective collar to keep him safe from traffic.

Training collars:
For training pups or new dogs, a martingale collar is indispensable. They have two loops, one that slides over the dog’s neck and another that tightens when the dog pulls against the leash, without choking his air passages.Aversive collars and shock collars that cause discomfort or pain may cause anxiety, aggression, and fear. Instead, auditory and vibrating collars that get the dog’s attention are considered by many to be more humane and more effective.

ID collars:
Collars with a pocket or D-ring for the ID tag and personalised collars, with their name and address embroidered or stamped into the fabric, are a great help to keep your dog safe when accidentally separated from you.

Since 1992, pet owners have been compelled to fit ID tags on all animals in public, even when they wear microchips. Your name, address, and postcode must be on the tag. If there is space on the tag, it is a good idea to also your contact number. Some people include the dog’s name, although many consider it unwise because there is a risk of the dog getting lured away by thieves.

 

Other considerations when choosing a collar for your dog

Dog Harnesses
Dog harnesses fit snugly around a dog’s torso and neck with various contact points to control them and keep them secure. There are many different types of harnesses and various reasons for using a harness rather than a collar.

Which dogs should wear harnesses?
Harnesses are preferable for brachycephalic dogs like Pugs, Bulldogs, and French Bulldogs.

A harness will not choke them and fits better because the necks of these dogs are almost the same width as their heads and they will not slip out of the harness when pulling on the leash.

 

Puppies, older dogs, dogs with neck pain, breathing issues and heart problems also need a harness instead of a collar.

 

Different types of dog harnesses
Various styles, fabrics, and closure types have different benefits.

Comfort harnesses
They are designed for maximum comfort and protection against injuries.

Several materials are available to maximise your dog’s comfort and the durability of the harness, including nylon, mesh, leather, and neoprene.

 

Nylon is inexpensive and lightweight but does not breathe and may trap sweat and liquids.

 

Leather is attractive and durable but is expensive and requires regular maintenance.

 

Mesh is lightweight and breathable to keep your dog cool, but is less durable and because they have less padding, they can chafe your dog’s skin.

 

Neoprene, used for wetsuits, is waterproof and the harnesses are well padded but they trap sweat and water because they are not breathable.

 

Reflective harnesses
Reflective strips or patterns on the harness make your dog visible in poor light and are very important if you walk your dog in the early morning or evening.

Clips
Make sure it fits correctly. It should not be too tight, yet not too loose either as it may come off. As a rule of thumb, collars fit well when you can place two fingers under the collar without choking the dog. Either buy an adjustable collar, or carefully measure the dog’s neck with a soft measuring tape, making sure it does not slip off, nor is too tight. Quick-release clips are very useful, especially when training your dog.

The type of material is very important. Make sure it does not irritate the dog or exacerbate allergies. When including decorations, make sure these do not chafe, cause irritation and cannot be snagged on something when the dog is playing. Clean your dog’s collar regularly to prevent a buildup of dirt and bacteria. Use a gentle soap and warm water and let the collar dry before refitting it. Do not use detergents or leather cleaners as they may be toxic to your dogs. Stubborn dirt can be removed with baking soda and a toothbrush.

Some fabrics, like neoprene and biothane, can usually just be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

Anti-pulling harnesses
Instead of a clip, the anti-pull harness has a D-ring in front for better control and making it easier for owners with mobility problems or someone walking the dog with children or pushing a stroller.

Harnesses fitting over the head or feet
Some harnesses slip over the dog’s head and neck and are attached underneath the dog, which is often easier to fit.

For dogs with neck or head problems, and puppies wriggling, it might be easier to use a harness that the dog steps into and is attached on top. They are also more difficult to wriggle out of.

 

How to properly fit a harness
A harness should fit snugly, but not tight. Carefully measure the dog’s neck where it meets the shoulders and the widest part of his chest. Check for chafing and positions where the dog can slip out of the harness by testing it in various directions. Some harnesses are adjustable, allowing you to make size adjustments as the dog grows, and loses or gains weight.

Test the tightness around the dog’s neck by slipping two fingers under the harness without choking the dog.

   

Leads/Leashes
Different breeds and dogs of different sizes may require different types of leashes and leads. They should be of the right materials, and the right length and be comfortable for you and your dog.

Leads or leashes made from rope are usually comfortable strong and soft on your hands. Nylon leashes are strong but can hurt or burn your hands and the dog’s neck. Chain leads are strong and durable, making them suitable or powerful dogs but need a leather thong to protect your hands. Make sure the D-ring clip is strong enough not to split if your dog pulls on the leash. A quick release will also make it much easier to put the leash on and take it off, especially for working dogs.

 

Toys
Like children, dogs can get bored and need something to keep them interested and also to bond with you, playing games. You can also use games and toys to reward your dog for good behaviour.

Puppies need something to chew on because their gums itch and without toys, your furniture and clothing are at risk. Make sure the toys cannot splinter or choke them if swallowed.

 

Mature dogs also need something to chew on to keep their teeth clean and strong.

 

Balls and frisbees are great for playing catch or fetch and will keep them fit and active. Squeaky toys will keep their attention (at least for a while) and entertain them when they are alone.

 

Dogs also need to be stimulated mentally. There are fantastic dog puzzles available that will keep you and your dog entertained for hours. Toys with a distinctive scent are great for “finding” things and challenging your dog mentally.

 

Poop scoops and bags
A not too pleasant fact of life is that our dogs usually do their ablutions on the route while walking and in the garden and it needs to be picked up and responsibly disposed of.

Durable scoopers of various designs are available to save your back and protect your hands from harmful bacteria, parasites, and viruses.

 

The most acceptable way of disposing of pet waste is to use degradable bags and put them in the grey trash bin. Dog pooh produces methane and can contaminate soil and water supplies if buried. It should not be flushed as the sewer network has not been designed for waste that could contain roundworms and parasites that could survive the purification process of drinking water.

 

Grooming equipment
Dogs with all types of coats need to be cleaned and groomed regularly and the nails may need clipping.

Short coated dogs need to be groomed regularly because their hairs get stuck on furniture, car seats, and clothes, and can clog drains.

 

Medium to long coats and dogs with thick undercoats need untangling and often for the areas around their eyes and ears to be cleared.

 

Show dogs need to be trimmed in the required shapes or hair length.

 

A variety of brushes, hair and nail clippers, scissors, and other grooming equipment will make your task easier.

 

Toiletries for dogs

Dog shampoo
Unless your dog has been swimming, played in the mud, or rolled in something smelly, they do not need to be washed more than every few months. Dogs with thick fur and thick undercoats do not dry sufficiently and can develop eczema and other skin diseases.

When you do wash your dog, use a properly formulated dog shampoo, put a non-slip mat in the bath and towel them dry properly afterwards.

 

Dog toothbrush and toothpaste
Older dogs in particular can develop gum disease or tooth decay, especially if they do not regularly chew on suitable things to keep their teeth clean and strong.

Canine toothpaste has been specially formulated in tasty flavours that do not foam. Use a specially designed rubber thimble to brush your dog’s teeth and gums.