Consistently ranked as one of the most popular dog breeds globally, Poodles are adorable, playful, smart, and even allergy-friendly! Whether you’re smitten by a tiny Toy Poodle or ready to romp with an active Standard Poodle, there’s some basic gear you’ll need to beg, borrow or buy before your new pup comes home. Here are 15 essential Poodle supplies you’ll need to get started with your new dog.

The 15 Essential Poodle Supplies

Food and Feeding Supplies

1. Food

To avoid potential digestive upset, try to start by feeding your new Poodle whichever diet their breeder, shelter, or foster parent has been offering. If you want to change their diet after that, you’ll have many options available. The first step is selecting a food formulated for your Poodle’s current life stage: puppy, adult, or senior. You will also need to decide between canned or dry food. All commercial dog food sold in America must meet basic nutrition requirements. Because of this, you don’t need to feel pressured to purchase “premium” or “all-natural” diets because you think they’re healthier. These words are purely advertising and not scientifically linked to any proven benefits. If your Poodle has special dietary needs, consult with your veterinarian when deciding on the best dog food.

When it comes to dog food for your Poodle, we recommend you take your veterinarian’s advice first, but we suggest Purina ProPlan diets as a solid overall choice for any life stage. We like the quality, reasonable price, and high protein levels of these foods.

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2. Food and Water Bowls

Your Poodle will need clean, safe bowls to contain food and water. Try to avoid plastic bowls as they can too easily become chew toys for teething puppies. Instead, look for stainless steel or ceramic options. Pick bowls that are the appropriate size for your new dog. You don’t want a tiny Poodle puppy falling into an oversized water bowl. You may choose to buy multiple bowls for your dog, perhaps a set for their crate and a larger water bowl to keep outside.

When it comes to food and water bowls, we recommend the Stoneware Crock Pet Dish from Ethical Pet. We like that these bowls are heavyweight to prevent tipping and skidding while your Poodle uses them.

Treats and Toys

3. Training Treats

Small dog owners are often guilty of neglecting to train their pint-size pooches, but Poodle parents make this mistake at their own peril. Considered one of the most intelligent breeds, an untrained Poodle may become bored, destructive, bossy, or high-strung. They want to learn, and they want someone to teach them. Stretching your Poodle’s mental muscles is just as important as a physical workout. For successful training sessions, make sure to stock up on plenty of training treats to reward your pup. Poodles respond best to positive training methods, which call for plentiful use of rewards to encourage your dog’s good behavior. Training treats are generally bite-sized, allowing them to be easily carried and helping your pup stay slim as they work through training.

When it comes to training treats, we recommend the Mini Naturals Chicken Training Treats from Zukes. We like that these treats are low-calorie and don’t contain artificial ingredients or flavors.

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4. Toys

To keep your smart and curious Poodle entertained, you’ll need a selection of toys for them to enjoy. All ages, but especially puppies, need safe chew toys. If your dog will be left alone frequently, consider puzzle toys or other independent play options. Poodles may also enjoy playing fetch, especially Standards, who were originally bred as water retrievers. Make sure to match the toys, particularly chew objects, to your dog’s play and chewing intensity. Some toys aren’t sturdy enough (and therefore unsafe) for destructive chewers.

When it comes to toys for your Poodle, we recommend the Skamp Fetch Dog Toy from West Paw. We like that this toy is versatile and can be used for fetch, tug, self-guided play, and even as a chew object for lighter to moderate chewers. It can also be cleaned in the washing machine and recycled.

Walking Supplies

5. Leash

Poodles are intelligent dogs, but are also active and curious and can easily get themselves into trouble outdoors. For safety, your new dog should always be kept on a leash when outside a fenced area. They should also wear a collar with identification tags at all times. Retractable leashes are tempting for giving your dog some more space to run around but are not safe for walking in crowded, high-traffic areas and can cause injuries. Your most versatile option is a 6-foot leather or nylon leash. Again, make sure both collar and leash are correctly sized for your Poodle. A puppy may end up needing several different collar sizes as they grow.

For your Poodle’s leash and collar, we recommend the Nylon 6-Foot Leash and Quick Snap Nylon Collar from PetSafe. We like that these products are durable, affordable, and offer several size and color options.

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6. Car Seat or Harness

To keep your Poodle safe while riding in the car, you’ll need a car seat or a seatbelt harness. Car seats are generally only for small dogs, so the size of your Poodle may make this decision for you. Tiny puppies may be the safest riding in a carrier, before graduating to one of the other safety options. Keeping your dog restrained in the car is not only safest for them, but can prevent dangerous distractions whilst driving on your part as well.

For car safety, we recommend the Tru-Fit Enhanced Strength Crash Tested Smart Dog Harness by Kurgo. We like that this harness is crash tested, available in multiple sizes, and includes a seat belt tether.

Comfort Supplies

7. Bed

Providing your Poodle with a comfortable place to sleep is a key part of helping them feel at home in your house. You may choose to purchase a bed that will fit your dog’s crate, although you may want to wait until your pup is reliably housetrained first. If you don’t want your Poodle sleeping on your furniture, make sure to get them an especially comfy bed as an alternative. Another option is to place dog beds or blankets on your furniture to give your dog their own place to sleep. For your convenience, look for a bed that is easily machine-washed and dried.

When it comes to dog beds, we recommend the Cozy Cuddler by Best Friends For Sheri. We like that this bed comes with an attached blanket for Poodles that love to burrow and that it can be both washed and dried in a machine.

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8. Crate

No matter what age or size your new Poodle is, you’ll want to have an appropriate size crate ready for them when they come home. Crates are especially vital for Poodle puppies, as they play a key role in the house training process. The size you need will vary based on how big your dog is. Choose one that allows your dog enough space to stand, sit, lie down and turn around comfortably. When housetraining, you don’t want the crate to be so big that the puppy has enough room to walk away from their sleeping area and use the bathroom. Dogs instinctively try not to poop where they sleep, and you want to encourage that tendency. Never use the crate to punish your dog, but do allow them to use it as a den or safe space by making it comfortable and accessible.

When it comes to crates, we recommend the iCrate Double Door Collapsible Wire Crate from Midwest. We like that this crate is available in multiple sizes with doors on two different sides.

Cleaning Supplies

9. Cleaning Supplies

Poodles may have a prim and proper reputation, but they can be just as messy as any other dog breed. To keep your laundry and surfaces free of pet stains and odors, stock your cabinets with cleaners formulated to tackle doggy messes. Especially when you’re potty training your Poodle, you’ll need a cleaner powerful enough to remove all traces of urine odor to prevent your pup from returning to that spot to go again. Enzymatic cleaners, which break down stain and odor at a molecular level, are generally the best options for pet cleaning jobs.

When it comes to pet cleaning products, we recommend the Advanced Dog Stain And Odor Remover by Nature’s Miracle. We like that this is an enzymatic cleaner that can be used safely on most surfaces.

Grooming Supplies

10. Brush

As a breed, Poodles are fairly high maintenance in their grooming needs. While you don’t have to clip your pup into an extravagant show-dog cut (we know you’ve seen photos), Poodle coats require frequent attention to avoid matting, tangling, and possibly skin issues. Many Poodle owners choose to have their dogs professionally groomed regularly, but you’ll still need to provide some care at home, specifically brushing. A slicker or pin brush is usually the best option for keeping a Poodle’s coat tangle-free. If you want to get a little more intense with your home grooming routine, consider purchasing a mat rake and metal comb as well.

When it comes to brushes, we recommend the Hertzko Self-Cleaning Dog & Cat Slicker Brush from Hertzko. We like that this brush is gentle on the dog’s skin and easily cleaned at the push of a button.

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11. Shampoo and Conditioner

Regular bathing is another important part of your Poodle’s grooming routine. If you choose to bathe your pup at home rather than take them to the groomer, you’ll need a shampoo formulated for use on dogs. Ideally, look for a product that won’t dry out your dog’s skin even with frequent bathing. Some Poodles may come with skin or coat conditions that require special shampoos, but your vet can help you pick the right option or even prescribe one.

For routine bathing, we recommend the TropiClean Pet Shampoo & Conditioner. We like the pleasant scent, gentle formula, and added moisturizing elements of this product.

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12. Nail Trimmers

Without regular nail care, your Poodle’s claws can grow out of control. Long nails not only put you at risk of being scratched but could result in your dog’s nails catching on something and tearing. Your vet or groomer will gladly trim your Poodle’s nails for you, but if you want to do it at home you’ll need a good pair of nail trimmers. If you adopt a Poodle puppy, getting them used to nail trimming early in life will make future grooming sessions less stressful for everyone.

When it comes to nail trimmers, we recommend the Nail Trimmers With Safety Stop from Miller Forge. We like that these nail trimmers are sharp, sturdy, and easy to hold, even when clipping a wiggly Poodle’s nails.

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13. Oral Care Products

Like many small and toy dogs, Toy and Miniature Poodles often suffer from poor dental health. Because of this, it’s important to make your pup’s oral care a priority. Brushing your Poodle’s teeth regularly is an effective way to keep their teeth clean. If that’s not an option for you, consider using dental chews or an oral water additive. At some point, your Poodle may still need their teeth professionally cleaned but being diligent about home care can still help prolong the inevitable.

For your Poodle’s oral care, we recommend toothpaste, dental chews, or water additive products from the Virbac C.E.T. brand. We like that these products are vet-recommended and offer multiple options to keep your Poodle’s teeth clean.

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14. Ear Care Products

Like a few other breeds, Poodles grow hair in their ear canals that must be plucked routinely. If not, the hair can trap dirt and debris, leading to odor and potentially ear infections. Groomers or your vet can perform this task for you or you can learn to do it yourself, using a special powder and a tool called a hemostat. You’ll also want to keep a good, basic ear cleaner in your stash of Poodle grooming supplies.

For your Poodle’s ear care, we recommend the Groomer’s Pet Ear Powder from Professional Pet Products and the Advanced Ear Cleaner from Epi-Otic. We like that these products are effective and easy to use, even for inexperienced home groomers.

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15. Clippers

If you are motivated to accomplish all aspects of your Poodle’s grooming care at home, you can invest in a good pair of clippers and learn to shave and trim their coats on your own. Professional groomers often use scissors as part of their process as well, but we recommend avoiding these for at-home grooming. Ask your vet to tell you about the number of grooming scissor injuries they’ve had to repair over their career, and you’ll understand! Instead, look for either plug-in or cordless clippers with various blade sizes.

When it comes to electric clippers, we recommend the Arco Cordless Pet Clipper by Wahl. We like that these clippers are lightweight, cordless, and adjustable to five different blade sizes.

Summary

While this list may not contain every item you’ll need for your Poodle, these  supplies are still a good guide to what you should have on hand before you bring your new dog home. Whether you adopt your new Poodle or purchase from a reputable breeder, make sure you’re fully prepared for the financial and time commitment your pup will need. Poodles tend to live well into their teenage years, and your dog deserves to have a safe, loving home with you for their entire lifespan.

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Featured Image Credit: MVolodymyr, Shutterstock