Being a pet parent comes with a lot of joy, but it can also mean navigating an overwhelming sea of products and marketing tactics aimed at making you believe your furry friend needs the latest and greatest items. While many pet products are incredibly helpful, there are some that just aren’t necessary. Below are five things you probably don’t need to buy for your pet, no matter how much they’re advertised as essentials.
1. Overpriced Pet Beds
It’s tempting to splurge on a fancy pet bed, especially with the variety of stylish and luxurious options out there. However, pets are simple creatures when it comes to where they sleep—they just want a safe, comfortable spot. In most cases, your puppy will pee/ poop on the bed, or if you're like me and foster puppies, one of them is bound to make it look like it snowed in your house.
A great alternative is to get an old pillow case of yours and fill it with used towels and clothes that smell like you. Much cheaper and if it get destroyed or gross you can wash it or toss it. Don't worry, it's not forever, you can get a fancy dog bed later when they aren't little piranhas anymore.
2. Toys with Heartbeats
One of the more "interesting" pet products on the market today are toys that mimic the sound of a heartbeat, marketed as soothing for puppies or anxious pets. While these toys may appeal to our desire to comfort our pets, they’re often unnecessary and can even be more confusing than calming.
Most pets, especially dogs, are perfectly content with basic toys—balls, ropes, squeakers, and chew toys will usually do the job. If your pet struggles with anxiety, other more effective solutions, like crate training or a consistent routine, are better long-term approaches. A heartbeat sound isn’t going to replace human comfort or a good night’s sleep, and pets are more likely to respond to real soothing actions (like cuddling, consistent exercise, or a calming environment).
3. Puppy Pads (If You Have a Yard)
Puppy pads can be convenient for potty training puppies, especially if you're in an apartment or don’t have a yard. However, if you have access to a yard or any grass, puppy pads often become an unnecessary addition to your pet’s routine. They can also create confusion, as your pet may struggle to differentiate between the pad and the real world of outdoor bathroom breaks.
Instead, focus on teaching your pet to use the outdoors from the start. This may take more time and patience, but it will save you money in the long run and help establish more consistent habits. If you're training a puppy or a kitten, be patient and consistent—puppy pads are often a temporary crutch that can delay the process and create long term behavioral problems.
The Bottom Line: Keep It Simple
Often, the best things you can provide are love, training/ socialization, and a consistent routine. I know that's hard to do when all of Instagram and TikTok is telling you to buy everything, but know you are doing amazing and we're always here to help you navigate this weird new life of yours as a pet parent.