Joybuy Insights

Choosing pet supplies: a practical guide for dogs and cats

When you shop online for pet supplies, you’ll often see appealing promises about convenience, safety and long-lasting performance. But an attractive product photo tells you little about whether an item is right for your pet. The wrong size, unclear instructions or unsuitable materials can leave you with a purchase that barely gets used.

This guide helps pet owners in the UK assess dog supplies, cat supplies and pet care products based on features they can verify.

Three common pitfalls when choosing pet supplies

1. A universal size that isn’t really universal

A pet carrier, dog crate or playpen needs to suit your pet’s body length, sitting height and weight. A product described as suitable for a “small to medium-sized dog” may be too cramped for a broad dog in practice. Always check the internal dimensions and maximum load.

2. Marketing claims without clear limits on use

Words such as “natural”, “safe” or “for all animals” are no substitute for an ingredients list or safety instructions. For example, a dog shampoo may be intended for dogs only. A flea and tick spray may have restrictions based on age, weight or health.

According to the product information for Knock Pest Fleas and Ticks Drops, the product is intended for dogs aged 6 weeks and over and weighing under 5 kg. The guidance also says to avoid using it on unwell animals and dogs weighing 5 kg or more. Always check the label on products for animals, and ask a vet for advice if you’re unsure.

3. A product that needs maintenance or familiarisation

A dog brush needs to be cleaned after use. A dog training clicker only works once your pet has learnt to associate the sound with a reward. Pet urine odour remover often needs time to work. If you skip these steps, you may mistakenly think the product isn’t suitable.

Important specifications to check

Size, weight and portability

For a dog carrier, internal dimensions, load capacity and ventilation matter more than the external size alone. The Euziel Foldable Dog Transport Box has internal dimensions of 60 × 42 × 42 cm, a stated maximum load of 11 kg and mesh windows for ventilation. According to the product information, it folds down to 60 × 42 × 8 cm. Before buying, check that your dog can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.

For a dog crate or foldable pet playpen, check the frame, fastenings and base too. Take extra care with products that don’t provide clear information about their joints or maximum load.

Materials and cleaning

For pet care products, the material determines how easy an item is to clean. A silicone dog brush is flexible and, according to the product information, can be cleaned with warm water, in the dishwasher or in a laundry bag in the washing machine. Don’t use a brush with cracks or sharp edges.

The surface matters when using sprays. Test a pet urine odour remover on an inconspicuous area first, especially on textiles, treated wood or coloured surfaces. Don’t mix an enzyme cleaner with bleach, acidic products or other cleaning products.

Use and safety

When choosing dog shampoo, check which animals it’s for, the recommended age and any warnings. Animology Dogs Body Dog Shampoo is described as suitable for dogs aged 6 weeks and over. Excellent Pets Propolis & Honey Shampoo lists dogs, cats, rabbits and rodents as the intended animals. Don’t assume a product is suitable for another species just because the packaging makes it seem that way.

Catnip spray has different instructions: spray it on a toy, scratching post, bed or carrier, not directly on your cat. According to the product information, not every cat responds to catnip. Test a small area of fabric first to prevent discolouration.

Recommended products for different needs

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Excellent Pets Training Clicker

Excellent Pets Training Clicker

Why it suits this profile: A compact aid for anyone who wants to start teaching basic commands at home using positive reinforcement. The integrated wrist and lead loop keeps the clicker close to hand.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The instructions start by explaining how to condition your dog with 10–15 click-and-reward repetitions. This makes it clear that your pet needs time to get used to it.

Key benefit & features

Plastic casing, metal click plate and a compact size of 16,8 × 8,4 × 3,8 cm.

Suitable for: Buyers looking for premium quality
Euziel Foldable Dog Transport Box

Euziel Foldable Dog Transport Box – 60 × 42 × 42 cm

Why it suits this profile: A good choice for dog owners who want one carrier for the car, home and days out, provided it’s the right size for their dog and within its weight limit.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The internal dimensions, maximum load of 11 kg and folded size are specified. Check these details before buying.

Key benefit & features

Folds down to 8 cm thick and comes with a carry handle, mesh windows, two side pockets and a removable fleece mat.

Suitable for: Specific needs & frequent use
Excellent Pets Urine Control Spray 500 ml

Excellent Pets Urine Control Spray 500 ml

Why it suits this profile: Handy for households with young pets, several animals or recurring accidents on suitable hard surfaces.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The instructions say to soak the area, leave the product to work for 5–10 minutes and test it on an inconspicuous spot first.

Key benefit & features

Enzyme formula in a 500 ml spray bottle, suitable for tiles, hard floors, litter trays and kennels, among other surfaces.

Suitable for: Budget-conscious beginners
Excellent Pets Soft Silicone Brush Long Hair

Excellent Pets Soft Silicone Brush Long Hair

Why it suits this profile: A practical choice for owners of long-haired pets who also want to remove loose hair from clothes and furniture.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The advice to brush in the direction of hair growth and use light pressure helps prevent pulling on the coat.

Key benefit & features

Made from 100% silicone, suitable for long hair and, according to the product information, dishwasher- and washing-machine-safe.

Looking for more options?

We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.

Frequently asked questions about pet supplies

What pet supplies do I need as a new dog owner?

Start with products for everyday care, safe transport and training: a suitable dog brush, shampoo for the right species, food and water bowls, a lead, collar or harness, and possibly a dog crate. Choose based on size, material and how you’ll use each item. Additional products, such as flea and tick treatments for dogs, need to be suitable for your dog’s age and weight.

How often should I replace a dog brush or grooming product?

It depends on wear and hygiene. Replace a brush as soon as its teeth, seams or silicone are damaged. Check sprays and shampoos for expiry information, changes in smell and leaks. Store liquids upright, sealed and out of reach of children and animals.

How much does pet care typically cost?

Costs vary depending on your pet, coat, how often you use the product and the product type. A reusable dog brush can be cost-effective with regular use, while sprays and shampoos are recurring expenses. So compare more than just the price per pack: consider the quantity, dosage, intended animals and how often you’ll need to replace it.