Crates/X-Pens

 

Lets start with crates. One of the most important things that you will need for your dog. I personally prefer RuffLand Kennels for my own dogs. They're easy to wash out, they don't take up a ton of space, aesthetically pleasing, fit nicely in my car, and do not rattle like wire crates. They are more pricey so that's really up to you if you choose to make that investment. For the car, smaller is better. If you're in an accident it is safer for dogs to have less space to be jostled around on impact. I prefer the Intermediate size for all Aussies. Now for at home the bigger boys (+60lbs) might prefer a Large if they like to sprawl out, but I've found that most Aussies will curl up in their crates anyways. If you're fine with just the plain white colored crate Scheel's is the cheapest I've found them new, or if you live near a Cabela's I've learned that they will price match Scheels if you show them the web price. 

 

For wire crates I suggest getting a 30" crate for a small female Aussie or 36" crate for a male Aussie. 

• 30" crate single door

• 30" crate double door

• 36" crate single door

• 36" crate double door

 

I also suggest getting an exercise pen for when your puppy is young. This gives them a controlled environment and more room to move around when you aren't directly supervising them. These are also great for traveling/camping/dog shows if your dog might need a space to move about but you don't want to be stuck holding them on leash the whole time. I have found that 36" height is adequate for most dogs. I also prefer the X-pen without a door and I just open and close if with clips, but that's personal preference.

• X-pen with door

• X-pen without door

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Beds

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• Midwest Crate Bed
  For crate beds I find most puppies either prefer the plastic crate pan as they run hot. Some do like beds though and I prefer these basic beds for in their crate. they are cheap and easy to wash.

• Primo Pads
  For an easy to clean bed that is durable and keeps your dog cool, Primo Pads are my go-to.

• Coolaroo Elevated Bed :
  My dogs love these beds. It's one of the few they consistently use. They also love to play on them and are great for place training. I have several in the house and backyard. Easy to clean, I usually just hose them down. 

Grooming

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• #1 All Systems Super Cleaning and Conditioning Shampoo :
  I like this shampoo for in between shows. Has a great scent and helps the coat stay healthy and hold good texture.

• #1 All Systems Crisp Coat Botanical Texturizing and De-Toxifying Shampoo :
  ​This is the shampoo I use when showing my dogs. 

• Pin Brush :
  Good for daily body brushing.

• Greyhound Comb :
  You'll use this more than any other comb/brush. Perfect for linebrushing and combing out the undercoat. I use a greyhound comb more than anything else in my grooming kit.

• Nail Clippers

 

Collar/Leash

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• Mes Amis :
  I love these collars and leashes. Lots of very pretty colors. They are super soft and I can roll up a full 6 foot leash in my hand. They are less likely to break coat then other collars. I use the .5 width and like the kennel combo, limited-slip collar, and 6 foot leash for my dogs. 

 

Bowls/Water

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• MidWest Stainless Steel Snap'y Fit Dog Kennel Bowl :
  Great basic bowl. I use stainless steel bowls only as they're easy to clean and sanitize, they don't absorb harmful bacteria like ceramics and plastic can. I usually don't actually use the part to clip it onto the crate but sometimes it's good to have if you have to feed elevated while they're growing.

• Indipets Heavy Duty Pail with 2 Hooks, 1-qt
  I have at least a dozen of these pails. I hang them on x-pens or crates for easy water access. Really great for offering water while traveling. They do work on RuffLand doors too. 

 

Food

​Click here to go to my page that goes into more detail about different food and supplement options

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