Penne & Co
Brecon Harness, £69
We live a rural Devon life, so a harness that can withstand river swims, Dartmoor hikes and, most importantly, be effortless for him to wear is essential. This design from Penne & Co, with military grade webbing looks like just the thing.
Ruff & Tumble
All-Terrain Collar, £25
With beach walks on the daily agenda, this collar from Ruff & Tumble is a must as leather collars can’t withstand the salt water and metal fixings often tarnish. Made of marine grade steel and webbing, it’s been thoughtfully designed for pups just like ours who love their daily dip.
Pointer and Hounds
Drying Robe, from £32
Another essential for water-loving hounds is a drying robe from Pointer and Hounds – perfect for rainy days, beach swims or post-bath to making drying that bit easier, and less messy!
Maya
Marshmallow Max Dog Leash, £55
I love the modern colour ways of these leads from Maya, and the soft foam handle makes lead walks a dream.
Ralph & Co
Waterproof Dog Bed, from £109
Comfort and practicality in one; with waterproof cover and memory foam mattress.
Houndd Co
House Collar, from £17
A clever design that safely releases if it gets caught during play. Great for harness wearing dogs who don’t need a full-on collar, that looks stylish too.
Honest Dog Co
Chicken Bone Broth, £17
Rescue dogs famously often have initial gut issues. This chicken broth to add as a topper to his meals will hopefully help him find his rhythm quickly.
Marley Bones
Meals from £3.50 per pack
Rescue dogs haven’t had the best nutritional start in life, and I want to make sure our new pup is nourished back to health with the best fuel possible. I love that Marley Bones doesn’t have to be kept in the fridge or freezer, but is only made with simple, fresh ingredients – meat, vegetables and superfoods – for the 5* feed he deserves.
Wagging Rights
Dog Dock, £175
With the boot already filled with our existing rescue dog, our new recruit is going to have to travel in the back seat. With safety a prime concern, I wanted a secure way of transporting him that still gives him comfort and security. The Dog Dock from Wagging Rights has ISO fixes for a super safe fit, as well as a harness attachment. The padded bed with raised sides is the height of comfort and can double as a travel bed once we reach our destination.
Lords and Labradors
Crate Cover, from £125
Using a crate with a nervous rescue dog can offer them a place of sanctuary and security to retreat to when overwhelmed. This crate covers from Lords and Labradors not only look great, but really cocoon their space for even more sense of security.
Pooch & Mutt
Salmon Oil, £11.50
Rescue dogs also often arrive needing some TLC and nourishment for their skin and coat. This 100% Scottish salmon oil will soon have him glossy and in rude health while helping his joint health too.
Bully Billows
Training Lead, £26
I love this 8-way training lead that allows you to adjust how you handle and walk your dog whilst training. From hands-free crossbody, to short heel training and longer length for recall work. A great versatile lead we’ll use for life.
FAQs: New Dog Essentials
What do you actually need for a new rescue dog?
Start with the basics: a well-fitting harness and lead, a comfortable bed, a safe travel solution and good-quality food. From there, small additions – like supplements or a crate setup – can make a real difference to settling them in.
Is a harness better than a collar for a rescue dog?
In most cases, yes. Harnesses offer better control and reduce strain on the neck, which is particularly important for dogs who may be nervous, reactive or still learning to walk on a lead.
How can I help a rescue dog settle in quickly?
Keep things simple and consistent. A quiet space to retreat to, regular mealtimes and gentle routines help build confidence. Products like crate covers, calming beds and familiar-smelling blankets can also ease the transition.
Do rescue dogs need supplements?
Not always, but many benefit from them initially. Gut-supporting broths, salmon oil for skin and coat, and joint supplements can help address common deficiencies while they adjust to a new diet and environment.
What’s worth investing in – and what isn’t?
Spend on the items they’ll use daily: a good harness, lead, bed and food. Accessories can be added over time, but comfort, safety and nutrition are the foundations that really matter.
