A new dog is like a new baby. If you haven’t had one before, you’re going to need a lot of stuff! He’ll need a comfortable bed of his own and he’ll need lots of safe toys. You’ll also need a collar or harness, leash, ID tags, brush, treats … well, you get the idea. But beyond the basics, you’re going to need the power of technology, and we’ve got just the apps to help you out. Check out these fun and helpful apps for pet parents, brought to you by Doggie Playsystems!

The Best Apps for New Dog Parents

PetCoach by PetCo

Empowering New Pet Parents - Photo by Samson Katt

Photo by Samson Katt

Like any new parent, you’re going to have lots of questions about your pup’s health. Instead of running to your vet at every sneeze (yes, dogs sneeze occasionally!), ask a veterinarian online for free at PetCoach. This app won’t take the place of your regular vet, of course, but it will let you know if the symptoms you’re worried about require a hands-on visit. You can also get advice about training, behavior, and which products are recommended for your pet.

This app also includes an Educational Center with answers to frequently asked questions about health, behavior, nutrition, proper care, and breeds. Apps Reviewed notes that through this app, you can search from amongst a cornucopia of articles and answered questions for the information you need.

LadyBoss Pocket Personal Trainer

Are you planning on being active with your new companion? While you’ve probably already had it drilled into you that you need to exercise regularly, you might not realize that your pup needs an exercise plan, too. As 1-800-PetMeds explains, dogs requirements vary by breed, age and so forth, but you should plan on 30 minutes to 2 hours for your furry friend. (2 hours might be a bit much for you, but you can always add a backyard doggie playground to help round things out!)

This is where the LadyBoss Pocket Personal Trainer comes in. Think of this app as a coach in your pocket. It will tailor your regimen to your personal preferences and needs, and can even help you with planning and maintaining proper nutrition. With this app on board, you and Fido will be fit as fiddles!

Chewy

Save time and money by ordering pet supplies online through Chewy. Whether it’s that special diet food that you can’t find locally, yummy treats, fun toys, or dog gear like collars and leashes, you’ll find it here. Chewy also carries sweaters and coats to keep your pet warm and dry in any weather, along with outfits if you insist on your pet looking fashionably chic or dressing for the holidays. They carry an extensive line of, well… pretty much anything you could need for your dog! Plus, if you sign up for Autoship you’ll get a discount on your pooch’s food and favorite treats.

Are You Prepared

These apps are just the tip of the iceberg when you bring a new furball into your home. Of course, if you’ve got your mind set on these newer apps you need to make sure your smartphone has the speed and power to handle all of today’s full-featured pet apps. If your phone is struggling to keep up, a new device can be an important part of your dog-related gear. You’ll want to look for a phone with power to spare, excellent RAM capacity, long battery life, and a great camera. (That great camera is essential because, like any proud new parent, you’ll be documenting every day with your new fur baby!)

So get ready to take the deep dive into dog ownership. With a little help from technology, you’ll have an easier time adjusting to pet ownership, and you’ll have some extra insight right at your fingertips.

Whew! It takes a lot of love, patience, and effort to take care of a new dog. But he’s totally worth it, isn’t he?

Look to Doggie Playsystems for more ideas and information that will keep you and your pup happy and healthy!