I was just about to get a puppy for the first time and this momentous occasion seemed like the perfect excuse to stock up on Black Friday dog deals. So, off I went adding what I thought were the best puppy toys into my virtual shopping cart, chucking in various other 'essentials' such as puppy pads and cute little collars (yes, a dog Christmas sweater may have also fallen into my cart).
Little did I know that what I'd actually need were the real essentials. When it came to the dog's bed, I wish I'd ditched a fluffy, squidgy bed for one that provided proper support for my pooch's joints. Puppy pads were a great idea initially, but what I, unfortunately, learned all too quickly was that yes, puppies have accidents while they're potty training and what you need are paper towels (and lots of them). And as for the toys? It's so important to invest in toys that are suitable for your dog's interests and size, rather than going for any old thing that looks fun.
Having had my little pup a year now and with Black Friday pet deals here for 2022, here's what I'd do differently this year.
Black Friday dog deals 2022: Quick retailer links
- Amazon: Save on grooming tools, vitamins, and flea treatment
- Petco: Save 40% on treats and pet food today
- Chewy: Find 40% off treats, and bundle deals on toys and beds
- Entirely Pets: Save 15% sitewide for Black Friday
- Only Natural Pet: Find 25% off everything but food right now
- Walmart: Find discounts on pet food, beds, pet cameras, and more
1. Choose your bed wisely
If you're shopping for a dog bed (especially for a puppy), removable and washable covers will be your best friend. I'd also look out for memory or 'egg crate' foam beds as these are designed to support your pooch as they snooze. Here's what I'd choose this time around:
2. Make sure the toys you buy serve a purpose
I can't be the only person who found the sheer volume of dog toys available overwhelming. There were chew toys, fluffy options, squeaky ones, and puzzles, to name a few. I stocked up on fluffy toys which were nice but only really served one purpose and that was to keep my pooch cozy at night.
So, what would I buy now? I'd choose a selection of toys that are different. One for snuggling, another for mental stimulation, and perhaps another for chewing on.
3. Stock up on cleaning essentials
Despite my dog being a year older now, I still get through plenty of cleaning products making sure those muddy paw prints don't hang around too long.
If you're getting a puppy, paper towels or cleaning cloths will be your go to, but for general day-to-day things like making sure my pup's crate is nice and clean and making sure my house is smelling fresh, here's what I'd stock up on instead.
4. Get a dog cam
Whether you just want to see your furry friend while you're out or if, like me, you're working on separation anxiety with your pooch and need to see how they are, a dog cam is one of my most useful purchases.
5. Don't opt for 'cheap' poop bags
I know, I know, do we really have to discuss poop bags? But, the answer is yes because buying cheap, means buying twice. Or at least it did for me. Since you'll need plenty of these bags, opt for extra thick options where you can. Plus, bulk buying is a great way to save and ensure you never run out.
So, those are my go-to essentials but if you're looking for other ways to save and stock up, head over to our Black Friday pets deals live blog.
