don't forget training aids!
Clicker (I always advocate clicker training!)
Potty training spray
carpet cleaner/odor neutralizer
target stick (I don't think this is a must-have puppy item for most people, but it is what I used to teach paddington to walk on a leash, and go into his kennel)
a good book about training from the library (I like the complete idiots guide to dog tricks)
kennel
exercise pen
also look into puppy classes at pet stores near you. We took the puppy I class at petsmart, and I don't know where we'd be without it. I know a lot of people here go to petco for training too. Puppy classes are fun, and completely worth it when you have a new puppy! Our trainer taught us everything we need to know about grooming, puppy behaviors that we (humans) find odd, and how to start a trusting relationship with our new friends!
As for toys, someone gave me a bag of rubber ducks when I first got Bear, and they are his favorite toys! They are just regular rubber bath ducks from the dollar store (think of Ernie on Sesame Street) Also, there is this little red dog that has a bag inside it. The bag can be taken out and heated in the microwave for a few seconds, and replaced in the dog. It is very comforting for puppies who have just left their litter! Paddington Bear slept with his every night in his bed, curled up with it. I forget the name of it, but I got it at Petsmart... I've seen a cheaper version of it at target that is a blueish color- it's about half the price, so look there first!!!
Good luck!
-O |