11 Essential Affordable Puppy Supplies for Your New Boston Terrier

A Guide to Welcoming Your Boston Terrier Puppy: Essentials and Expectations

Bringing home a new Boston Terrier puppy is an exciting and joyous occasion. These charming and intelligent dogs quickly become cherished family members.

However, ensuring a smooth transition for your new pup requires careful planning and preparation. From creating a safe environment to providing the right nutrition and training, there are several crucial aspects to consider.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the essentials needed for your Boston Terrier puppy and what to expect during this exciting journey.

Remember, the 3 most important things your pup needs is your attention, interaction, and guidance.

Preparing Your Home:

Before bringing your Boston Terrier puppy home, it’s vital to create a safe and comfortable environment. Puppy-proofing your home is crucial to ensure the pup’s safety and prevent potential accidents. Here are some important steps to take:

Secure the Space:
Start by designating a specific area where your puppy can play, sleep, and eat. Use baby gates or playpens to limit their access to certain areas of your home, keeping them safe and supervised. You should not allow your new Boston free-range of your home.

Designate an area where she or he will be allowed so that you can provide continual direct supervision. You could purchase an exercise pen (x-pen), but this doesn’t eliminate the need for constant supervision.

You could also fasten the pup’s leash to your waist, and in this way keep him or her close by and supervised. I have done this with all of our dogs when they first come to our home, puppy or not – they are literally attached at the hip to me for at least two weeks if not longer.

This encourages bonding and a feeling of security for your pup. After several months, they won’t have as much desire to go get in to trouble because they will LOVE being right by your side! It can be a bit inconvenient, but like human babies, they grow so fast, so enjoy this time!

Remove Hazards:
Puppies are naturally curious and tend to explore their surroundings. Remove any toxic plants, electrical cords, remotes, small objects, or choking hazards that could pose a danger to your new pup.

Hide Valuables:
Store any valuables, shoes, or items that you wouldn’t want your puppy to chew on or damage out of their reach.

Invest in a Crate:
Consider getting a crate for your Boston Terrier puppy. Crates serve as safe spaces and aid in house training. Ensure the crate is appropriately sized to allow the pup to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably.

Remember to wait a while to buy a nice bed for your puppy!

Boston Terrier Puppy Feeding Essentials:

Proper nutrition is essential for your Boston Terrier puppy’s growth and overall health. Providing the right diet will set the foundation for a healthy adult dog.

High-Quality Puppy Food:
Choose a premium, well-balanced puppy food designed specifically for small breeds like Boston Terriers. Ensure it meets their nutritional needs, including protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Natural Puppy Dry Dog Food comes in several flavors and a 5 lb trial sized bag to test out if it agrees with your pup and if they like it.

Blue Buffalo’s dog foods prioritize real meat as the main ingredient, particularly high-quality chicken for muscle health. Their Puppy Formula includes essential fatty acids like DHA and ARA for cognitive and retinal health.

The food incorporates antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits for immune support and overall well-being. Blue’s dry dog foods are made from natural ingredients without artificial additives.

Food and Water Bowls:
Invest in sturdy, non-tip food and water bowls that are appropriate for your puppy. Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easy to clean and maintain hygiene. Furthermore, your puppy won’t find them as tempting to chew on as a plastic bowl.

As your Boston gets mature, you may consider buying raised food dishes to help with reflux issue that most Bostons get from time to time.

The Petnimal Elevated Adjustable Dog Bowls are fantastic for pups and grown dogs because they adjust in height as your little one grows!

Experience enhanced dog feeding with the 15°Tilted Platform raised dog bowl, thoughtfully designed to boost digestion for your pet. The 15-degree tilt alleviates strain on the neck and back, especially beneficial for pets with reflux, arthritis or back issues, providing a comfortable dining experience.

This upgraded dog bowl offers 6 adjustable heights, ranging from 2″ to 7″, catering to different growth stages of your pet. Crafted from durable and easy-to-clean bamboo wood, the elevated dog bowl comes with two stainless steel bowls and a silicone mat, maintaining a hygienic feeding space. The anti-slip stand ensures stability and protects your floors.

Treats:
Have some puppy treats on hand for rewards during training and positive reinforcement. Choose treats that are appropriate for your puppy’s age and size.

Feeding Schedule:
Establish a regular feeding schedule to regulate your puppy’s eating habits. Typically, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Consult your veterinarian for specific recommendations based on your pup’s age and weight. Frequent small meals through the day help with reflux issues as well.

Healthcare and Grooming:

Regular healthcare and grooming are essential to keep your Boston Terrier pup healthy and comfortable. Although they don’t need much in the way of grooming, get your pup used to taking baths, getting their nails trimmed and teeth brushed. In the future, when your Boston is grown, you will thank yourself later. (I promise!)

Veterinary Care:
Schedule a visit to the veterinarian for a thorough health check-up and vaccinations. Discuss a vaccination schedule and necessary preventive care for your puppy.

If money is tight, consider looking up a “neuter scooter” (traveling veterinarian bus) for deeply discounted neuter, spay and vaccines.

Flea and Tick Prevention:
Invest in flea and tick prevention products recommended by your veterinarian to keep your puppy protected from these common pests.

Grooming Tools:
Acquire basic grooming tools such as a brush, nail clippers, and doggy toothpaste (Don’t use human toothpaste!) toothbrush suitable for your Boston Terrier’s coat and dental health. Regular grooming helps maintain their coat and hygiene.

Dental: The Petosan Puppy and Toy Breed Dental Kit with Toothbrush, Toothpaste and Microfiber Cleaner has everything you need to get your pup off to a good oral start and is easy to use and store. The toothpaste is chicken flavored.

The Allstar Innovations PetiCare LED Light Pet Nail Clipper is a bit pricier than the others, but I personally enjoy using this kind of clipper. It works as a “guillotine” for lack of a better word. I am always so paranoid that I am going to hurt my Boston by cutting her nails too short and exposing the kwick.

It has 4 super bright LED lights, a compartment to trap the nail so it doesn’t go flying across the room (gross) and a magnifier! You can’t go wrong! 🙂 When you get to be my age, you really appreciate any help you can get as my eye sight sure isn’t what it used to be. I also like how they made it really easy to replace the blade. With care, this should outlast your pup for life.

Training and Socialization:

Early training and socialization are vital for a well-adjusted and obedient Boston Terrier.

Training Treats:

Training treats come in handy during obedience training. Choose small, tasty treats that motivate your pup to learn and obey commands.

Crazy Dog Train-Me! Training Reward Dog Treats 16 Oz., Bacon Regular. These aromatic and tasty treats are perfect for all size dogs at all stages of life. They are pellet form, so they are easy to tote with you on walks, etc.

Training Pads:
For potty training, have training pads or newspaper available in designated areas to encourage appropriate elimination. Click here for more in depth information on house breaking. I suggest getting pheromone infused training pads or use a spray. This scent gives your pup the message that “it’s ok to potty here” making the whole ordeal much easier. There are also pee pads that have the pheromone scent built in!

SPOT X Marks The Super Absorbent Pee Pads are great for all dogs and especially dogs who are in the process of training. There are concentrated pheromones that attract the dog to the center “X” spot. This ensures your dog will only pee on the center of the pad and avoid leaks and messes. Having a pet to love and care for requires a lot of hard work, and we at SPOT aim to minimize that.

Also, an enzymatic cleaner to use on any soiled areas so that your puppy won’t be attracted to the same spot to eliminate again and again. Simple Green, and other enzymatic cleaners work by breaking down the protein in the urine and feces.

Follow the directions on the back of the bottle for optimal effectiveness. Alternatively, you can use a solution half and half white vinegar and water to remove odors if there is no enzyme based cleaner handy.

Simple Green Bio Dog Active Stain & Odor Remover efficiently removes persistent stains and odors from various sources like urine, feces, vomit, scent markings, and more. Ideal for porous surfaces like carpets, rugs, pet bedding, and clothing. Harnesses potent natural enzymes to eliminate odors at their source, ensuring a thorough clean. Safe for use around pets and effective against new, old, and stubborn stains.

Toys:
Provide a variety of safe and durable toys to keep your Boston Terrier entertained and mentally stimulated. Toys also aid in teething and prevent destructive chewing.

The Corn Stick for teething and cleaning teeth takes care of two things – your pups dental health and keeping him busy! This chew toy is ideal for small to medium aggressive chewers, providing relief from anxiety when dogs are alone at home.

Regular play with this toy helps clean a dog’s teeth, effectively targeting incisors, fangs, and molars, preventing dental issues and calculus buildup. Additionally, the toy features a squeaky function that grabs the dog’s attention and enhances their engagement during play.

The innovative suction cup design allows versatile usage on different surfaces, ensuring a secure hold without losing suction power. The base also acts as leverage for your pup to hold between his paws. Crafted from durable TPR material, this toy remains intact and resistant to long-term chewing, making it a lasting option for dog entertainment and dental care.

The KONG Puppy Rubber Chew Toy. I’d be remiss if I didn’t include this old standby. Still a fave with dogs and owners the world over. It is made of puppy grade rubber that is not as stiff, but still as strong for a pups more “gentle” chewing.

You can stuff it with any treat you want. It can be used for play time too. When you throw it, it bounces off in crazy directions making for some hilarious moments as you watch your pup try and figure it out.

Training Classes:
Consider enrolling your puppy in puppy training classes to learn essential commands and socialize with other dogs. Professional guidance can significantly benefit both you and your pup.

Comfort and Rest:

Ensuring your Boston Terrier puppy has a cozy and comfortable place to rest is crucial for their well-being.

Dog Bed:
Invest in a soft, comfortable dog bed appropriate for the size of your pup. The bed should provide ample cushioning and support. I wouldn’t spend a ton of money on a fancy bed as your new baby will likely chew it up. A crate will be best as you will be training him, while giving a safe space for your pup to rest and stay out of trouble.

A crate, when dogs are properly trained for them at a young age, gives them a sense of security and autonomy – like having their very own bedroom or safe space. I suggest a wire crate as opposed to the plastic crates. The wire crate is more open, and you will have the option to make it more “den like” by covering it with a blanket. plus, they are more roomy so you can put toys, etc in with your pup to keep her occupied.

The Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate with Tray, Single Door, 24 x 18 x 20 Inches, Black is what I purchased for my Nella who is an average to slightly smaller sized Boston. She has plenty of room to stretch in this size. If possible, get a look at your pups parents to get an idea of how big yours may get, then size your kennel accordingly.

If you get one that is too big, your pup may think it’s ok to potty in it. No kennel is indestructible, but this one would be pretty hard to destroy. I love how this one folds up to barely taking up any space, as well. Oh, and did I mention – it has a divider, so you can make room as your pup grows!

Blankets and Pillows:
Offer blankets and pillows to create a snug resting place for your pup. These simple additions can provide comfort and warmth. Invest in an inexpensive pad, or put fluffy towels in there that you don’t mind getting torn up or urinated on.

Travel and Safety:

Whether it’s a trip to the park or a visit to the vet, ensuring your pup’s safety and comfort during travel is essential.

Car Seat or Carrier:

Invest in a secure car seat or carrier to keep your puppy safe and confined during car rides. This helps prevent injury and reduces anxiety. To read more on car rides and safety gear for your Boston Terrier, click here.

Leash and Harness:

Purchase a sturdy leash and a comfortable harness for walks and outdoor activities. Training your puppy to walk on a leash is an important skill. It important that your new pup understands how to walk next to you on a leash, to prevent annoying behaviors like leash pulling.

You may prefer a 6 foot leash over a 4 foot. They are more versatile, and easier to use when teaching your puppy to walk on a loose leash. Once your puppy is leash trained, a locking retractable leash allows for some additional freedom-or not! You can call the shots – not your dog!

Rennaio Dog Harness No Pull, Adjustable Puppy Harness with 2 Leash Clips.

Experience unmatched adjustability with our dog harness featuring four sliders strategically placed for easy resizing, ensuring a perfect fit for all dog breeds as they grow. Effortlessly tailor the harness to your puppy’s size and comfort needs.

Crafted from a breathable and lightweight mesh polyester fabric, the vest component of this harness, weighing just around 3 ounces, offers your pup a soft and skin-friendly wearing experience. Enhance safety during nighttime strolls with the harness’s 360° reflective design, providing maximum visibility from all angles.

The step-in design simplifies the process—just three easy steps to put it on and take it off, promising convenience for both pup and owner. Additionally, the harness includes front and back metal leash rings, supporting a no-pull, no-choke walk and enabling hassle-free leash attachment.

The front chest clip serves multiple purposes, including displaying ID tags and aiding in training dogs prone to pulling, while the back D-rings are ideal for casual walks, jogging, and various activities.

Love and Attention:

Above all, your Boston Terrier puppy needs love, attention, and quality time with you!

Playtime:
Engage in regular playtime with your puppy. Boston Terriers are energetic and love to play fetch, tug-of-war, and other interactive games.

Affection:
Offer your puppy plenty of cuddles, pets, and affection. Building a strong bond with your pup is essential for a happy and well-adjusted dog.

Training and Bonding:
Incorporate training sessions into your daily routine to strengthen the bond and understanding between you and your puppy.

Conclusion:

Welcoming a Boston Terrier puppy into your home is a delightful and rewarding experience. By adequately preparing your home, providing proper nutrition, ensuring healthcare and grooming, facilitating training and socialization, and showering your pup with love and attention, you’re setting the stage for a happy and healthy life for your shiny, new, Boston Terrier.

Remember, the 10 to 15 year journey of raising, and loving, a Boston Terrier is a partnership based on love, care, and mutual growth, resulting in a lifelong companionship filled with joy and loyalty.