If you decide to take home one of our puppies (or any puppy for that matter), there are a few things you will need to make the puppy comfortable in his new home. (Did I mention keeping your sanity, as well?)  Here is a quick list of must-haves and should-haves to ease the transition. 1 Large crate - This is the easiest way to begin housebreaking. If you can't watch the pup, he and your carpet will be safe from harm here while he is learning.  It also becomes his own area of comfort for napping, or just getting away from noise, etc.  The crate also keeps your pup safe during travel.  HINT: Get a crate to fit the size your dog WILL be, not the size he is when you take him home.   1 Collar or Harness and Leash - Your pup will come with a collar upon pickup since he will probably have some growing to do before getting into his full size collar.  The adjustable collars work the best for the growth period. Usually, these pups are into a 10-12" collar when they leave.   At least 1 Chew Toy -  If a puppy has something he is allowed to chew, it reduces the risk for your furniture, rugs, or else anything important. (A Kong ball is great fun and guaranteed durable. Nylabones are also good choices.) Even if he just stares at it at first, he will soon learn that it is something he is allowed to play with.   Quality Dog Food - Usually a breeder will recommend the brand of dog food they use.  I feed my pups a premium dog food made for large breed puppies, because they grow at different rates than smaller dogs.  This growth rate can effect their joints if it is not controlled.  Quality large breed dog food has the right blend of minerals and protein to help keep the pup's growth under control. A good quality food is also better absorbed by the dog's system. This means less dog food to buy and less clean up in the yard. My puppy and dog food of choice is Nutro Natural Choice Large Breed.   HINT: If you choose to use a food different than that of the breeder, be sure to ask for enough to make a proper transition to the new food. Feeding a pup new food without transitioning may upset his stomach. Big mess!   Slicker Brush and/or Pin Brush - A slicker brush is great for puppies and even adult dogs. It's great for getting knots and matts out and keeping the dog's coat silky.  A pin brush is good if you decide to keep your dog's hair longer.  Either way, the sooner you begin brushing your pup the sooner he will get used to the idea and even learn to like it!  Let it be a relaxing time for you both.    Adjustable Gate - This is good to have while training your pup.  It will keep him confined to one room of the house at a time and that makes it easier to keep an eye on what he's doing.