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Hi, everyone! I’m Will Dudding, a friend of Smarter Living and the owner of an elderly golden retriever. I’m here to talk about a few things every new pet owner needs, in collaboration with Wirecutter, a New York Times company that reviews and recommends products.

Beyond the leash, collar, bed and crate, plenty of universal items are not as obvious to a first-time owner. Here are five cheap(ish) accessories that will help you make the most out of your new relationship.

Spill-proof water bowl

If you’ve ever witnessed a thirsty dog collide with a bowl of water on a hot summer day, you and your floor can both appreciate this essential item. The key to a good water bowl is utility, and while the folding models are convenient for travel, they tend to collapse during zealous use.