Last Updated on November 4, 2025 by Kim Crawmer, KPA CTP, LFDM
Your Maremma Puppy Essentials Checklist: Everything You Need Before Pickup
The Exact Products I Use and Recommend After 10+ Years Raising Maremmas
You’re bringing home your new Maremma Sheepdog puppy soon—exciting! Here’s everything you need, organized by priority so you know what to get first. I’ve tested all of these products on my own dogs, and they’re the ones that actually work for livestock guardian dogs.
PRIORITY 1: Get These Before Pick-up Day ⭐
The Dog Food We Use and Recommend
AAFCO-approved food for large breed puppies. This is a 5-star food on Dog Food Advisor. This is what we feed our Maremma puppies under 12 months old.
AAFCO-approved food for puppies (including large breed) and adults, including large breed. This is a 5-star food on Dog Food Advisor. All of our Maremmas 12 months and up eat this food.
Dog Feeding Supplies
Clip-On Fence Feeder | Mountable Feed Bucket | 4.5 Quarts | Black. We use these to feed our Maremmas by clipping them onto the fences.
Holds 8 Cups (64 fl oz), Heavy Duty Metal Food and Water Bowl for Feeding Dogs and Cats, Dishwasher Safe, Rust Resistant Stainless Steel, BPA Free Rubber Base, Red
Fresh Water for Your LGD
Easy To Clean and sanitize, Quick Setup With Fresh Water Refill - Perfect Choice For Farm Animals and LGDs. We use these in our Puppy Parlor, barn, and pastures. They have never failed, even after years of use by our Maremmas and goats.
Order a Harness & Leash for Your Maremma
Why I carry these (and why you should use a harness instead of a collar):
I’m passionate about harness training for LGD puppies. Harnesses distribute pressure across the chest instead of the neck, which is especially important for large, strong breeds that may pull while learning leash manners. I’ve tried dozens of harnesses over the years, and the Balance Harness from Blue-9 is hands-down the best for Maremmas and other LGDs.
Here’s what makes these special:
- Safer for growing puppies who are still learning leash manners
- Perfect fit for deep-chested livestock guardian dog breeds
- Front-clip design discourages pulling naturally
- Durable enough for working dogs
- Comfortable for all-day wear
- Distributes pressure across the chest instead of the delicate neck
- Gives you better control without causing discomfort
🛒 These are physical products you purchase directly from me (not Amazon affiliates)
Purchasing options:
- Picking up your puppy in person? Order your harness and leash, and I’ll have them ready when you arrive. No shipping fees—just pick them up with your pup!
- Shipping your puppy? I can send the harness and leash with your dog (taped to the crate—airline regulations don’t allow harnesses inside the travel crate).
- Need it shipped to your home? Available! I can ship directly to you (additional shipping charges apply).
Harness Options - Regular or Reflective - Order Below
Leash Options - Regular or Reflective - Order Below
✈️ SHIPPING YOUR PUPPY?
If your puppy will be flying to you, you’ll need specialized travel supplies:
• Airline-approved travel crates
• Crate packages (crate + accessories)
• Professional booking service
• Door-to-door delivery service
🚗 PICKING UP YOUR PUPPY
Make the ride home safe and comfortable with these travel essentials:
• Travel crates for vehicles
• Seatbelt safety tethers
• Vehicle cargo liners & seat covers
• Travel bowls & accessories
Priority 2: Get These the First Week Home
Grooming Basics
- Slicker brush (for that fluffy coat)
- Undercoat rake (essential for shedding season)
- Nail clippers or grinder
- Dog shampoo (for occasional baths)
Quick note: Maremmas need weekly brushing at minimum. Start grooming habits early!
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Our Rating:
4.7 | Our Rating:
5.0 |
$14.19
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Regular Cleaning | ||
Treat Infections | ||
Use for Cleaning |
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✂️ NEED HELP WITH GROOMING?
Maremma coats require specific care! Check out my complete grooming guide with:
- Step-by-step grooming instructions
- Product recommendations for every task
- Seasonal grooming tips
- How to manage that undercoat!
Toys and Enrichment
My Pick 
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Must Have 
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Budget Size 
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Our Rating:
5.0 | Our Rating:
5.0 | Our Rating:
5.0 |
$29.95
| $9.95
| $20.95
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🧩 THE TOPPL: MY SECRET WEAPON FOR PUPPY ENRICHMENT
This toy is a game-changer for keeping LGD puppies mentally stimulated. My full review covers:
- Why it’s better than a Kong for most dogs
- Creative filling ideas beyond peanut butter
- How to use it as a training tool
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Dog Training Treats
Training Treats My favorites: High-value treats for training, lower-value for everyday rewards. Freeze-dried meat treats work great for recall training.
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Longer Lasting Dog Treats
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PRIORITY 3: NICE TO HAVE (BUT NOT URGENT)
Bedding & Comfort Many LGDs prefer sleeping on the ground or cool surfaces, but this dog bed is great for extra comfort and holds up in all kinds of weather.
15" H Raised Bowl for Large Dogs, Holds Up to 47 Lbs, 2 Removable 64 oz Stainless Steel Bowls
Ready to Join the Family?
Join Our Email List!
Sign up for our email newsletter, and we’ll keep you posted on upcoming litters and available dogs! Our email list members are always the first to know and get first dibs on available dogs. We also send out helpful Maremma Sheepdog care and training articles and links to useful resources.
