Checklist: 10 Things to Get Before Your New Puppy Comes Home

So, you probably have already considered all the things you need to know before getting your first dog and made the decision to have one. Congratulations! It's undoubtedly one of the most important decisions you've made in your life. Now, the fun—or not so fun—part begins: getting everything your puppy will need on their first days.

To make your life easier, I've written a checklist below with the 10 things your newly arrived puppy will need. You can download the file at the end of the post to have it handy when you require it.

1. A Dog Crate or Bed

Dogs need a place of their own where they can take a nap, relax, and have some alone time. Many people recommend getting a dog crate and gradually getting your puppy used to it, so they feel it's their space.

In Bella's case, she never had a crate, but she did have a suitable bed in an exclusive area for her. However, over time, she realized that sleeping in our bed or on the couch was better (our fault 😒).

2. One – or many – Blankets

Your new puppy will feel more comfortable if they have their blanket in their crate or bed. The blanket will take on their scent over time, helping them feel like it's their place.

If you live in a very cold area, it will even help keep your dog warm.

You may want to have some replacement blankets in case your puppy destroys or make its needs over one of them.

3. Food and Water Bowls

Don't forget to get a couple bowl for your puppy's food and water, both appropriately sized for your puppy.

If you already have another dog, they shouldn't share bowls, so it's crucial to get a new set for your new furry friend.

4. Puppy Food and Treats

You'll need to get the right quality and quantity of food for your new puppy. Some criteria to consider include:

• Age: Dog food is specifically formulated for puppies, adults, or even seniors. You can't feed adult food to a puppy, as the composition and kibble size aren't suitable.
• Potential size of your puppy: Many foods have specific compositions for small, medium, or large dogs.
• Your puppy's breed: Some rations are developed for specific dog types, considering factors like their fur, some common allergies, etc.

You may also want to get some treats to help teach your puppy some basics and to reward good behavior.

5. Leash, Collar or Harness, and a Tag

It's essential to get a leash and a collar for your puppy and getting them used to wearing them in their early days, even if they can't yet go for walks, as it can be more challenging later on.

You can also get a harness for when it's time to go for walks, although it won't be necessary at the beginning, and you may probably prefer to wait until your dog gets bigger.

When the time arrives, your puppy will need an ID Tag with your phone number and its name, just in case.

If your puppy will be traveling in your car, you'll also need to get a dog safety belt.

6. (Many) Dog Toys

Puppies require two or three basic dog toys for entertainment and chewing. If you don't provide them, your dog will probably find something else in your home to fulfill this need 😅. Some basic dog toys include:

• Chew toys: Dogs release multiple hormones while chewing, and over time, it helps keep their teeth healthy. So, it's necessary to have these toys and teach them to use them for chewing; otherwise, they'll use anything they find in their way.
• Balls: Dogs love balls, especially some breeds that enjoy fetching and retrieving. Balls will serve as a toy that you'll also use when going for a walk or to the park.
• Plush toys: Apart from chewing, these toys stimulate your puppy with their various shapes, textures, and sizes. Some make sounds, while others have unusual textures that will catch your puppy's attention and help with socialization.
• Ropes: Another basic toy that allows you to interact with your puppy and make them burn a lot of energy playing with it.

7. Potty Training Pads

In the first few days, your puppy will do their business wherever and whenever they feel like it. It's essential to try to teach them to do it in a designated area.

Pads help them potty training, and over time, you can guide them to do it when they go for walks. We'll talk more about this in another post, but generally, it takes between 4 and 6 months for your puppy to be fully reliable.

8. Dog Poop Bags

There's not much to say about this, but you'll need plenty of dog poop bags. Puppies usually poop about 3 to 4 times a day, so do the math.

My recommendation is to buy a large pack (24 or 48 rolls) so you always have backups, and it will also be cheaper. You should also get a dispenser that attaches to the leash to have bags with you when you go for a walk.

9. A Brush for Grooming

There are different types of brushes designed for different types of fur, so keep that in mind when getting one.

The brush allows you to groom your puppy and remove any excess fur they tend to shed. Even dogs with short hair can benefit from brushing.

Initially, you may not find it very useful to brush your puppy, but if you don't do it, it can be challenging to get them used to the process when they start growing and shedding.

10. Dog Toothpaste and Toothbrush

These are crucial for your puppy's dental health, as you should brush their teeth regularly.

The toothpaste should be specially formulated for dogs (human toothpaste is not good for their health).

For the toothbrush, you can use one you have at home, but I recommend getting one specifically designed for pets. You can even get those disposable ones that fit on your finger, which, in my opinion, are easier to use.

Download the puppy stuff checklist below

You can download the puppy stuff checklist to have it always handy and even print it if it's more convenient for you.

If you find it useful, you can also help us by sharing it on Pinterest or Twitter 💪!

Is there anything missing on the list? Feel free to use the comments to suggest other things that everyone should get before the new family member arrives home.

Thanks for reading 🙌.