All About Pupper
A few ways to spoil your furry best friend. Because dogs are the best.
We could all learn a thing or two (or 12) from dogs: for starters, their unconditional love and enthusiasm for each and every day. Dogs soothe us when our hearts are hurting and challenge us to embrace the here and now. Having a little companion has helped me feel more comfortable in my new home, serving as an adorable little ambassador to introduce me to my neighbors. Moving is always overwhelming. When you’re more of an introvert, it can be especially hard to will yourself out the front door, but all it takes is a puppy and a ruined rug or two to give you that extra push.
Having recently added a new pupper to our family, I’ve been shopping for dog supplies pretty much constantly. This week’s three picks helped us welcome home our Shih Tzu, Scoop, and hit the right balance between practicality and luxury.
Bless all the dogs out there. We don’t deserve them.
1. OUAI Fur Bébé ($32)
I know, I know. This is seriously extra. But what else would you expect from celebrity hair guru and OUAI founder Jen Atkin? This dog shampoo is gentle and smells amazing, just like their Mercer Street fragrance. The key ingredients are aloe vera, panthenol, vegetable protein and rambutan seed extract to cleanse and soften your dog’s fur. In other words, get ready for some major cuddles. We had to bathe Scoop every week or so until his first haircut because his coat was so long, but this didn’t irritate his skin at all. And since he’s so small, this bottle is going to last a while.
2. Wild One Harness ($48)
I knew it would take a while for Scoop to get used to being on a leash, so I wanted a harness to keep him comfortable as we steer him away from everything he wants to eat on the ground. This harness from Wild One is soft, cushioned and adjustable. Scoop’s never fussed getting into or out of it and is perfectly fine to wear it until bedtime. I opted for the color spruce, and because I’m very Type A, I had to get the matching leash, poop-bag holder, collar and travel carrier. And I’m not sorry—I love the clean look and thoughtful functionality of the brand’s designs.
3. Barbour Quilted Dog Bed (£79)
The bed was the one thing my husband weighed in on. He wanted one befitting the English gentleman our pup is, and this one from iconic Barbour ticked all the boxes: Plenty of cushion, a resilient cotton lining (in their signature tartan) and higher sides to help Scoop feel cozy and safe. It also looks nice sitting in our living room. Founded in 1894, Barbour is famous for their countrywear—you’ve definitely seen their signature waxed jackets before—and remains a family business to this day. Scoop definitely likes to play in it more than sleep, but long pupper naps don’t seem too far off.
Something to think about …
Every dog deserves a safe and loving home. Based in Michigan (and run by my dear, selfless friend Angela), Adopt A Pup is a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing animals living in shelters or dangerous conditions.