Building a starter kit for a new dog takes some preparation. But it's not just about buying collars and food bowls. There are expenses you overlook that are important if your dog is going to thrive.

You want to make sure your dog has everything he needs.

The problem is most people don't plan for those hidden or unanticipated costs until they've already spent a ton of money and it's too late. In this post, we'll show you what to buy for a new dog that goes beyond the basics.

New Dog Starter Kit Checklist

Here's what you'll learn:

• The pet supplies every new dog needs

• Safety and health items most owners forget

• The financial preparation new dog owners often ignore

• How to build an emergency fund

Dog Supplies You Need To Get

The obvious place to start is basic supplies.

If you buy cheap, your pet will pay the price. Even though you're tempted to cut costs, quality stuff that lasts longer and works better is actually less expensive over time.

Food & Water Bowls

Make stainless steel bowls a priority.

They're easier to clean and hold up much better than plastic. Plus, they don't harbor bacteria in crevices the way plastics do. Buy elevated feeders for larger dogs. Raised bowls aid digestion.

Dog Food

Feed your dog high-quality food. Cheap brands are full of fillers and filler is not food. Look for the main ingredient to be a real meat source. Protein is vital for all dogs.

Collar, Leash & ID Tags

Get a good collar with your dog's name and your cell number on the ID tag. Most dog owners also include their address on a backup tag.

Dog Crate & Bedding

Dogs need security and a crate is a great way to provide it. Get one large enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.

Add washable bedding material for easy cleanup.

Dog Supplies Most People Forget

New dog owners leave a lot of money on the table by missing these items.

But it's not hard to fix. Just a little advanced planning means you never run into these situations later.

First Aid Kit

Dogs get into everything. Be prepared. Keep a pet first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers for ticks, and emergency phone numbers handy.

Dog Grooming Supplies

Brushing helps avoid skin conditions that cost a fortune to treat. Buy the brushes and nail clippers your dog breed requires.

Include dog-safe shampoo and a soothing ear-cleaning solution in your kit.

Dog Flea & Tick Prevention

Year-round flea/tick prevention is less expensive than treating an infestation. Ask your vet what the best options are for your area and your dog breed.

Dog Microchipping

Dog collars slip off. Chips can't. Your vet can implant a tiny microchip that provides permanent identification.

These are amazingly effective at reuniting families with lost pets.

Financial Prep Dog Owners Miss

The other truth about new dogs is most people don't prepare financially.

In an emergency, vet bills can be $250 to $8,000. An after-hours vet visit may cost several hundred dollars. Surgery? Boarding? You're looking at a big number.

Then you want to get your pet back as soon as possible. If your dog is missing, having insurance and emergency supplies really helps.

Pet Insurance: Is it Worth it?

Pet insurance company reviews can be found everywhere online. Good reason too. Pet insurance is more important to dog owners than ever before.

Dog owners should find the best pet insurance before disaster strikes. Insurance policies typically cover accidents and illness after a waiting period.

The best ones also cover preventive care. But timing is everything. You need to get a policy before pre-existing conditions develop.

Emergency Fund Starter Kit

Pet insurance isn't for everyone. Maybe it doesn't make financial sense for your situation.

No insurance? Put away money instead. Set up a dedicated savings account. Then sock away at least $1,000 or $2,000 in it for pet emergencies. Add to it every month.

This safety net ensures no one has to choose between a pet and financial stability.

Training and Supplies

Don't overlook training either.

It's not optional. Proper training from the get-go is one of the best ways to keep your dog safe and your household happy.

Dog Training Classes

Enrolling your new dog in basic obedience classes is a must. Classes provide socialization in addition to teaching core commands.

Training sessions usually last six to eight weeks and cost between $100 to $300. Every penny of it is worth it.

Well-trained dogs are much safer around kids and easier for owners to manage at the vet. Meaning less risk for injury and expense.

Dog Training Tools

Buy training treats, a clicker if you use that method, and puzzle toys. Stimulation and entertainment at home are critical.

Idle dogs are destructive dogs. Chewed up furniture and shredded cushions cost money to replace.

And interactive puzzle toys provide the mental engagement dogs need when you're at work.

Patience is Free

Last, be patient. Training takes time. Daily practice, even for just five minutes at a time, is more effective than long, sporadic sessions.

Dog Owner Mistakes to Avoid

Dog owners tend to make these mistakes when getting a new dog.

Learn from their experiences and skip the trial and error:

Don't Skip the Vet

The first vet visit is not optional.

You need a health baseline even if your dog came from a shelter or rescue with vaccination records. You'd be shocked how often hidden medical conditions are discovered in otherwise healthy-looking dogs.

Buying Cheap Supplies

The $5 leash may seem like a bargain until it snaps with your dog running toward traffic. Cheap stuff is usually exactly that: cheap quality.

Invest a bit more in gear to avoid problems.

Wrapping Up

Don't limit your new dog starter kit to collars and beds.

Consider everything related to the dog's health, safety, and your finances. There are the good times with your dog and the hard stuff.

The best-prepared owners plan for the whole range.

Let's go over what we covered.

• Don't buy cheap gear. Quality supplies last and work better.

• Don't forget pet safety and health supplies like first aid and grooming.

• Prepare financially with pet insurance or an emergency fund.

• Invest in dog training from day one.

The upfront effort and investment save money and problems later. It also keeps your dog healthier and happier. Do it and watch your pet thrive.