New Puppy Checklist - Here's What You'll Need

New Puppy Checklist - Here's What You'll Need

Author WDF Staff

01.07.2021.


Getting a new puppy is very exciting. Your life is about to get a whole lot happier, but it will also give you additional responsibilities and duties. As responsible dog owners, we need to make sure our puppies have everything they need. However, knowing what your puppy will need can be tricky. There is a bunch of advice from other owners and websites that tell you what you should get, but not everything is necessary. We bring you the new puppy checklist to help you get all you need for your new puppy.

New puppy checklist

There is a lot of stuff your puppy will need. Some are pretty straightforward, but some are not, and you might not think of them initially. Here is what you will need, and make sure you have everything on this new puppy checklist.

Before your puppy arrives

There are some things you should get even before your new puppy arrives at your home. You should prepare and make sure you are actually ready for the puppy’s arrival. We’ll start this new puppy checklist with things you’ll need before the puppy comes home;

Leash and collars

All dogs need to be walked on a leash and a collar. You want to get an adjustable collar and a durable, comfortable dog leash. That way, you will be ready to start leash training your puppy as soon as they arrive.

puppy on leash

Doggy ID

It is better to be safe than sorry. You should get two different types of identification for your dog. Get a dog tag with your contact info and get an up-to-date dog microchip. If anything happens and your puppy gets lost, all your information is easily accessible.

Bowls

The basic thing your puppy will need is food and water. They will need their own water and food bowls, and that is something you can get without much trouble. There are many options, but we prefer either metallic or ceramic. They are easier to maintain and wash.

Crate or bed

Your puppy will need a comfy place just for them. Some owners think crates are cruel, but the truth is - dogs love secluded, peaceful places where they feel safe. You should get your new puppy a crate or a dog bed where they can nap and rest. Plus, they will get used to it from the beginning.

dog bed

Puppy food

Puppy food falls under its own category. You shouldn’t really buy it on your own. Instead, talk to the breeder you are getting your puppy from. Ask them what food they have been feeding their puppies and how satisfied they are with it. Keep in mind that switching puppy food is not easy, and it is a process that takes time and is filled with digestive issues. However, you can check some recommendations here - Best puppy food.

After the puppy arrives

Now that your puppy has arrived, there are different things you should look for and provide your puppy with. In the first few days, you can let your puppy adjust and make sure they are used to their new home and surroundings. When you get a look at your puppy’s personality and the type of entertainment they like, you can decide what kind of toys to get your puppy. Here are the new puppy checklist items you’ll need after your puppy arrives;

Toys

Puppies are very playful, and they are like little balls of energy that will want to play all the time. You should get your puppy puzzle toys, chew toys, and chase toys. It is the best way to prevent your shoes and furniture from getting chewed up.

dog toy

Puppy treats

One of the best tools you can use for training your new puppy is puppy treats. Get some puppy treats your puppy will love. They will motivate them to learn and behave how you want them to behave. Food motivation and positive reinforcement is the only good way to train your puppy.

Grooming supplies

There are different things you will need for puppy grooming. Grooming is essential for any dog, not only to look their best, but it is also vital for their health. There are different aspects of dog grooming, and if you don’t want to take your dog to a groomer every month, you will have to do it at home. Here is what you’ll need;

  • Brush
  • Dog shampoo
  • Dog toothpaste
  • Dog toothbrush
  • Grooming wipes

Cleaning supplies

When your puppy arrives at your home, you can be sure the first few months will be full of accidents. Before your puppy is fully potty trained, they are bound to make a mess inside your home. It is a great idea to get cleaning supplies, like pet-safe carpet cleaning solutions, and make absolutely sure they are safe for your puppy.

Services on the new puppy checklist

Your puppy will not only need things; there are different services you will have to arrange for them. Here are the most important things you have to find and prepare for your new puppy;

Veterinarian

There is nothing more important than having a vet in your corner. A good vet will give you great advice and can be there for you throughout your puppy’s life. Make sure you find someone that has a clinic close to you. Getting a vet that has a good reputation is also important.

Groomer

Having a skilled groomer in your corner could be very useful. Trimming your dog’s hair is not that easy, and some owners prefer groomers do it. Find a good groomer you can trust and make sure they can do a good job.

dog grooming

Insurance

Vet bills can be very high, so you should get dog insurance. They can support you through different puppy issues and will help you with the financial part of keeping your dog healthy.

Trainer

Some owners prefer training their dog on their own, but you should look for a professional dog trainer’s help if you don’t have the knowledge or skills. They have the knowledge and skills that will help you raise your puppy right.

Other services

If you have a busy work life, and you might need some help taking care of your dog, there are services like pet walking and sitting you can look into. This might not be essential, but if you need a hand, these services are convenient.

white puppy on meadow

In conclusion

Getting a new puppy is undoubtedly one of the best things you can do for yourself. Sharing a home with puppies or dogs will make sure you always have company and a best friend right next to you. Getting everything you will need for your puppy can be tricky, so here is a helpful new puppy checklist to help you get organized;

  • Leash
  • Collar or harness
  • Water bowl
  • Food bowl
  • Crate or dog bed
  • Dog tag
  • Microchip
  • Toys
  • Puppy food
  • Puppy treats
  • Grooming supplies
  • Home cleaning supplies
  • Veterinarian
  • Trainer (optional)
  • Groomer
  • Insurance
  • Dog walker or sitter (optional)

We hope this helps and enjoy getting a new puppy!

World Dog Finder team

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