Pet pantry by age

Breed-specific formula for Labs 8 weeks–15 months. Donut-shaped kibble slows fast eaters and supports joint health.

The go-to crate for large breeds. Divider panel shrinks the space for puppies, then expands as they grow. Folds flat.

Gives your puppy a safe roaming zone without free-roaming the house. Pairs with the crate for daytime use.

Get one that grows with them. Check the fit weekly — puppies grow fast and collars can get too tight quickly.

A simple 6ft nylon or leather leash for your first walks and leash introduction. Skip the retractable for now.

For overnight accidents and rainy-day backup. XL size is worth it for Labs — they have a big footprint even as puppies.

The stuffable rubber chew toy for teething relief and crate training. Stuff with kibble or freeze with peanut butter.

The squeaky fetch ball Pepper loves: lightweight, durable, and easy to spot in the yard.

Tiny, soft, and only 3.5 calories each — perfect for rapid-fire training sessions without overfeeding.

The probiotic powder we use to keep Pepper regular. Especially useful after diet changes, antibiotics, or travel.

Breaks down urine at the molecular level so puppies don't re-mark the same spot. Stock up — you'll need a lot of this.

Start weekly nail trims from week 1. Building tolerance for paw handling now makes vet visits easier for life.

A safer rawhide alternative for teething pups. 100% beef, single ingredient, long-lasting chew. Always supervise.

A front-clip harness is the most effective tool for teaching loose-leash walking at this age. Look for the Ruffwear Front Range or similar.

Gives your pup freedom to explore while you practice recall ("come") in parks or open spaces. A must-have for this age.

The 79" splash pool Pepper loves: folds flat for storage, no inflation needed, great for backyard cool-offs.

Clips to your waist so treats are always ready. Makes training sessions faster and more rewarding for your pup.

Graduating from puppy treats to the classic training treat. Only 2 calories each — perfect for high-rep sessions.

Denta-ridges clean teeth while your pup chews. Stuff with peanut butter or freeze for longer engagement.

Most topicals and chewables (like NexGard) are approved from 8–12 weeks. Confirm with your vet at the 3-month checkup.

Saves your arm during fetch sessions. Labs will run laps as long as you'll throw — this makes it sustainable.

Hide kibble in the mat and let your pup sniff it out. 15 minutes of nose work = 1 hour of physical exercise for mental fatigue.

Spread with peanut butter, plain yogurt, or wet food and freeze. Great for calming anxious pups during grooming or vet prep.

Dishwasher safe, durable, and stuffable. Harder than a KONG — good for a pup who's mastered the basic Kong.

Dental disease is the #1 preventable health issue in dogs. Start a daily dental routine now while the habit is easy to build.

Labs should stay on puppy food until 12–15 months. Start stocking the adult formula so you're ready to transition.

Durable, padded, and built for dogs that pull. Two leash attachment points — front clip for training, back clip for walks.

Safer than a slip collar, more effective than a flat collar for adolescent dogs who are still learning not to pull.

Graduate from the puppy KONG to the classic red rubber. Tougher formula for adolescent chewing intensity.

Labs inhale their food. A puzzle bowl slows them down (reduces bloat risk) and turns mealtime into enrichment.

Calorie-controlled formula designed for Labs' tendency to overeat. Supports joint health and a healthy weight.

More durable than a tennis ball and easier on joints. Labs will destroy a tennis ball in 10 minutes — this lasts.

Labs are smart and need mental challenge. The advanced Nina Ottosson puzzles are genuinely difficult and satisfying for high-drive dogs.

Supports coat health, joint lubrication, and brain function. Look for a wild-caught fish oil softgel dosed for large breeds.

Daily brushing is the gold standard for dental health. Enzymatic toothpastes (like Virbac CET) work even if you can't brush daily.

Lower calories, higher joint-support nutrients. Ask your vet when to make the switch — often around age 7 for Labs.

Worth every penny at this stage. Look for a waterproof liner and washable cover. Big Barker and Casper make Lab-worthy options.

If your dog shares the couch or bed, a ramp protects aging joints from the impact of jumping up and down.

Hardwood floors become a hazard for dogs with weakening hind end. Paw grips (like Pawz or Toe Grips) restore traction.

One of the most evidence-backed supplements for aging joints. Look for Cosequin DS or Nutramax Dasuquin.

Talk to your vet. Many senior dogs benefit from a combination of glucosamine chews + CBD oil for inflammation and comfort.