My first Lagotto is moving in...Initial equipment
You're wondering - what should you have at home during the first few days?
First Harness
A small harness for the first few weeks makes sense, but since the minis grow quite fast during this time, do not buy such an expensive one, because certainly a new one must be purchased soon. Directly at the pick-up is usually the size XS, but very soon you can change to S. There are an infinite number of providers here.
Food and bowl
This food must, of course, be served in bowls. We recommend the stainless steel bowls from Hunter in size M (13cm diameter). They are sufficiently large, also suitable as water bowls, and, most importantly, easy to clean because the stainless steel inner bowl is removable.
Box
A folding box is always convenient when the dog is used to a box. It can be used well in the hotel, at an exhibition or as a retreat.
In the first time at home, they are for the puppies at night, so that they can get in touch when they have to get out. So they become more quickly house-clean.
The size should be about 50x70cm, then it can be used later.
Driving / box / cage or just seatbelt
Safety in the car, there are various ways to transport the dog safely for him and the occupants in the car. We always recommend a box in the car, here there are many different variants, made of aluminum or plastic depending on what the trunk gives. It is important that the dog is spotted in case of a strong brake or even an accident. Alternatives are of course also dog grids, so the trunk is separated from the interior. Here the feel-good factor of the dog decides. East prefers to be in a box, so he feels safe and can sleep in peace while driving.
Sleepingplace
A dog needs its own place, whether for resting, sleeping, or simply lounging around. Any cushion with at least two sides is suitable. Most Lagotti enjoy being able to snuggle up.
There are many different providers here in all price ranges.
I would advise against a pillow with a polystyrene filling. Furthermore, when buying a pillow, you should make sure that it can be easily machine washed.
Poobag
Poop bags, none of us like to step into a dog heap, so you should get used to having bags with the Lagotto from the beginning.
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Bathing / Scissors - Accessories
Before we start scissors or cutting, we bathe the Lagotto - here we only use a shampoo which is suitable for the curly coat. We have tested several shampoos and have been enthusiastic about Chris Christensen for a few years. After the extensive bath, we go first in the bathing fat and then we blow-dry with our booster. This saves you a lot of time to brush out matting. Then we brush the Lagotto with the following brushes and combs. Mattings behind the ears, on the feet or under the armpits are often present, so it is particularly important to take care of it.
We have 2 scissors that we used see picture
It's going to be a long straight pair of scissors and a paw scissor
Scissors of all kinds and great advice can be obtained from Stahlwaren Wolfers . Order either by phone, at an exhibition or online. He is familiar with the breed and can recommend the appropriate scissors.
We use a fixed shear table that is not height-adjustable, but therefore has a secure stand and gives the dog a safe feeling - from cheap hydraulic shear tables should be refrained from, because these are wobbly and the shearing and well-being of the dog is not promoted.
A troublesome issue: ear care
Unfortunately, dogs with woolly coats also grow hair inside their ear canals. (Note: not every Lagotto has heavy hair growth in the ear canal, so the approach must be decided on a case-by-case basis.) If this hair isn't removed regularly, the ear canal can become completely blocked. A dense plug of hair, earwax, and dirt forms. If the dog then goes into the water, moisture is added to the mix. This warm, damp environment is ideal for all kinds of bacteria and fungi, providing a perfect breeding ground for them to multiply. Severe ear infections requiring lengthy treatment are often the result. Therefore, get your puppy accustomed to the ear-plucking procedure early on. However, always remember not to pluck out *all* the hair; the goal is simply to ensure the ear canal remains well-ventilated. Using a special ear powder can help with plucking; it makes the hair slightly less slippery, making it easier to grip.
You can pluck the hair using just your fingers or by using special plucking forceps. You simply have to experiment to see which method works best for you.
This and that...
Rainjacket - We use a raincoat for the dog during heavy rain on our hikes to prevent him from getting chilled. There are many different manufacturers available; we have a raincoat from Trixie (50 cm length).
Door/stair gate - If you have an open staircase in your house, or an unsecured basement entrance, we recommend a stair gate so that the puppy cannot fall and you don't have to keep an eye on it every minute.
Light-up collar - For the puppy stage, an inexpensive one is sufficient, which is 1. lightweight and 2. can be cut to size.
Once your dog is fully grown, we recommend buying a good Leuchtie (a type of night light). We recommend the Leuchtie Plus version. It offers good brightness, and the batteries are replaceable!
Clicker - Clicker training is a good training method to motivate your dog to perform a desired behavior through positive reinforcement.
more
hiking - If you enjoy hiking but your puppy can't walk very far yet, there is a great solution. The Trixie backpack (up to 10 kg) or the Tarig backpack (size L, up to 16 kg) are perfect for taking your little puppy along wherever you go. They are also very practical for bus or train travel.
