Sunny, Jasper and I Soaking in the Amber Glow of Autumn

A Complete Guide for Happy, Healthy Dogs

Finding the right products for our non-speaking fur babies can be a journey of trial and error. Unlike kids, our dogs can’t tell us what feels good, tastes right, or truly helps—so we learn through love, observation, and a whole lot of patience. Over the years as a devoted dog mom, I’ve leaned on curated lists from fellow pet parents to guide me through the overwhelming deep sea of options and opinions. Now, it’s my turn to pay it forward. This curated collection features high-quality essentials my two Maltipoos and I swear by. I’ve also included convenient Amazon links to the products so you can easily check them out and see what might work for your own furry companions. Whether you’re welcoming a new pup or refining your dog’s lifestyle, these must-haves cover nutrition, wellness, grooming, play—with heart and intention behind every choice. 

Here are my pooches top choices after many trials & errors:

Nutrition & Mealtime Must-Haves

Orijen Small Breed Dry Dog Food 

Why we like it: Orijen's biologically appropriate philosophy focuses on high protein content from fresh and raw animal ingredients that mimic a dog's ancestral diet. Key factors include its high percentage of meat (85-90%), the use of "whole prey" ingredients like muscle meat, organs, and bone, and the sourcing of regional, high-quality ingredients. Their Small Breed Grain-Inclusive also has quinoa, millet, and oats and supports lean muscle, energy, and digestive health—perfect for active small dogs like my Maltipoos.

Cesar Simply Crafted Chicken & Beef Food Topper 

Why we like it: Made with real human grade chicken and beef, this topper adds flavor and moisture to dry food. It doesn't have artificial colors or preservatives—just clean, simple ingredients dogs love.

Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Meal Mixers 

Why we like it: Made with 95% meat, organs, and bone, these freeze-dried raw toppers boost your dog’s bowl with protein-rich nutrition and irresistible flavor. Available in a variety of single-source proteins—including grass-fed beef, cage-free chicken, wild-caught salmon, and grass-fed lamb—they support digestion, skin and coat health, and energy. Perfect for picky eaters or dogs needing a nutrient-dense upgrade to their meals. Just scoop, mix, and serve!

Bernie’s Perfect Poop Digestion Support Supplement 

Why we like it: It combines fiber, prebiotics, probiotics, and enzymes to improve stool quality, reduce gas and odor, and boost nutrient absorption. It's a gut health powerhouse!

Grooming Essentials

Skout’s Honor Dog of the Woods Probiotic Shampoo & Conditioner 

Why we like it: It's infused with live probiotics to balance the skin microbiome, soothe irritation, and reduce odor. It's deal for sensitive skin and fluffy coats.

Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleanser 

Why we like it: This ear cleanser is the #1 vet-recommended for routine ear cleaning. It has a non-irritating, debris-removing formula that supports ear health and prevents infections.

PawSono No-Rinse Foaming Paw Cleaner for Dogs & Cats

Why I like it: This gentle, no-rinse foam is gentle enough to use as needed even on sensitive paws. Made with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, and coconut-derived cleansers, it lifts dirt and allergens without harsh chemicals or drying alcohols. The built-in soft silicone brush makes cleanup quick and mess-free—perfect for post-walk paw care or muddy adventures. It’s safe for daily use and ideal for dogs with delicate skin (like my Maltipoos), leaving paws clean, calm, and cuddle-ready.

Dr. Pol Incredi-Pol 3-in-1 Pet Refresher, Waterless Coat Cleaner & Conditioner

Why I like it: This multitasking spray is a game-changer for low-maintenance grooming. It cleans, conditions, and deodorizes without water—perfect for in-between baths or post-adventure touch-ups. Infused with gentle ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E, it’s safe for sensitive skin and leaves coats soft and fresh without any sticky residue. The light scent is pleasant but not overpowering, and the spray bottle makes it super convenient for quick refreshes on the go. Great for dogs who hate bath time and pet parents who love a clean cuddle.

In-Between Grooming Tools for Fluffy Dogs 

Must-haves: Slicker brush, pin brush, detangling comb, grooming scissors, nail clippers, and a gentle grooming spray. These tools help manage tangles, mats, and keep coats fresh between baths.

Toys & Chews

Chuckit! Ultra Rubber Balls 

Why we love them: They are durable, bouncy, and perfect for fetch. Made from natural rubber and designed for high-energy play.

Squeaky Toys 

Why all dogs love them: They activate prey drive and offer satisfying auditory feedback. Great for mental stimulation and solo play.

Responsibly Sourced Antler Chews 

Why they’re better than bones: Natural antlers are long-lasting, rich in minerals, and safer than bones, which can splinter. Always choose ethically sourced antlers.

Brain-Stimulating Toys 

Why they matter: Puzzle toys and treat dispensers challenge your dog’s mind, reduce boredom, and prevent destructive behavior.

Treats: High, Medium & Low Value

Dogs respond differently to treats based on their smell, texture, and taste intensity—and that response can be used for their safety training. That’s why I always keep both high-value and low-value treats available. 

High-value treats are moist,  smelly, and extra tasty (think any meat jerky, liver bites, real meat toppers, freeze-dried meat, or cheese) best used for behavior shaping, training, and special occasions—especially in high-distraction environments where you need your dog’s full attention and motivation. My dogs are picky eaters, so I reward them eating their nutritious food by following up with a high-value treat. 

Low-value treats, on the other hand, are dry, mild-flavored rewards used for everyday reinforcement—perfect for casual praise, routine interactions, and maintaining good behavior without overstimulating or overfeeding your dog. Think of them like your dog’s daily “thank you” snack—simple, satisfying, and easy to offer throughout the day.

High-Value: Carolina Prime Pet Salmon Jerky Treats 

Why we love them: Made with real salmon, these treats support joint, brain, and skin health. They are ideal for training and special rewards.

Low-Value Treats (for casual rewards):

Fruitables: Low-calorie, fiber-rich superfood treats with pumpkin and blueberry

Healthy Edibles: Made with natural ingredients like fruits and veggies for guilt-free snacking

N-Bone: Edible, digestible dental bones that reduce tartar and freshen breath

Milk-Bone: Classic crunchy treats with added vitamins and minerals

Dental: Belly Bones Yogurt Flavor Dental Chews 

Why we love them: Made with probiotics and kelp, and have a chewy texture that cleans teeth and freshens breath without the additives of other brands and risks of rawhide.

Comfort & Sleep

The Right Shape of Dog Beds 

Dogs choose bed shapes based on sleep style—round beds suit curlers, rectangular beds suit stretchers. My Maltipoos prefer rectangular beds because these support side sleepers and sprawlers, while my mom's Shih Tzu prefer hers round. So if your dog ignores their bed, it might just be the wrong shape for their sleep style. 

Harnesses & Leashes

Ruffwear Harness & Leash Sets 

Why we love them: They are ergonomically designed, padded, and built for adventure. Features include front-clip for pullers, reflective trim, and breathable materials.

Paw Care

Musher’s Secret Paw Balm 

Why we like it: It forms a breathable barrier to protect paws from heat, snow, and rough terrain. It's also made from food-grade waxes.

Bodhi Dog Organic Paw Balm 

Why we like it: This USDA-certified organic balm soothes dry, cracked paws through the night. It's ideal for indoor use before bedtime, and it's safe for sensitive skin.

Why I like these: I’ve tried several high-quality, even high-end dog shoes for my Maltipoos, but they just don’t like them. The rigidity and bulkiness made the shoes uncomfortable and awkward for my small dogs—one walked stiffly and kicked them off immediately, and the other refused to move at all. They impaired their natural paw movement, reduced ground sensation, and even caused chafing and sweating that lead to licking and discomfort when I took them off. These KOOLTAIL socks, on the other hand, are waterproof at the paw area, anti-slip, lightweight, flexible, and breathable, which makes a huge difference. They do the job of protecting paws on rainy or snowy days, shield against salt, ice, and allergens, and help reduce paw licking caused by irritation. The built-in paw area grips provide traction, helping dogs feel secure and steady. My dogs adjusted quickly and now wear them comfortably in wet and cold weather. They’re easy to slip on, stay in place with secure straps, and don’t interfere with how my dogs walk or play. For my picky dogs, these socks offer a gentler, more practical alternative to traditional dog shoes and boots.

Supplements

Pawfy Supplements 

Their natural formulas are tailored to each dog’s needs—whether it’s allergy relief, joint support, or gut health—and made with clean ingredients.

First Aid Kit Must-Haves

Mountain Salve by Glacier Peak Holistics 

Why I love it: This organic antibacterial and anti-inflammatory salve is multi-use. It works for hot spots, wounds, inflammation, bug bites etc. It's the only product that I can't find on Amazon but buy directly from the company that makes it.

Vetericyn Plus Dog Wound Care Spray 

Why it’s great: It's a fast-acting pain relief and germ-killing formula for minor cuts, bites, and clipper burn.

Styptic Powder

Why all dog parents need it: It stops bleeding from nail trims and minor wounds instantly. A must-have for grooming emergencies.

Dog First Aid Emergency Kit

Why it's great: This compact, well-stocked emergency kit is a must-have for any dog parent. It includes essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers, and even a pet thermometer—perfect for hikes, travel, or unexpected mishaps at home. I love that it’s thoughtfully organized and lightweight enough to toss in a backpack. I keep mine packed and ready at all times.

Allergy Test

The Original Pet Intolerance Test by Glacier Peak Holistics 

Why I recommend it: This holistic hair and saliva test screens for over 395 food and environmental stressors—helping you uncover hidden sensitivities in your dog or cat. Results arrive in 7–10 business days and offer actionable insights to improve your pet’s diet, comfort, and overall wellness. Ideal for pets with chronic paw licking, inflammation, digestive issues, or unexplained symptoms. 

Final Thoughts: Tail-Wagging Tested, Dog-Mom Approved

Navigating the world of dog essentials doesn’t have to feel like chasing your tail. With love as your compass and a little help from fellow pet parents, you can build a toolkit that truly supports your pup’s health, happiness, and personality. Every product in this guide has earned its place through real-life use, countless sniffs, chews, playtime, cuddles—and most importantly, the joyful approval of my two canine sons.

I hope this list saves you time, brings clarity, and adds a little extra love to your dog’s daily routine. If it helps even one pup live a healthier life, and feel more comfortable, playful, and loved, my mission is accomplished. Feel free to message me your own favorite discoveries and I'll add them to the list with a contributor byline—I’m always eager to learn from the amazing community of dog lovers.

Cheers to wagging tails, muddy paws, and the kind of companionship that makes life infinitely better. 🐶💛