What To Buy For A New Puppy? - Puppy Essentials Checklist

Choosing your new puppy and bringing it home for the first time is an incredibly exciting moment. Before you bring home your fluffy ball of excitement it is best to be as prepared as possible so your new addition will feel settled and welcome. Our puppy checklist will walk you through exactly what to buy for a new puppy. This will help prepare you for bringing your new best friend home.

New Puppy Checklist

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Here's everything you'll need ahead of welcoming your new puppy.

Bedding 

A comfortable bed that is large enough for your puppy to stretch out in and grow into is a must. There are lots of bedding options, one thing that lots of puppies like is vet-bed which is a synthetic sheepskin that is machine washable and non-allergenic. This is a great option to put into a bed to make it very cosy. 

Food and Water Bowls  

Your new puppy will need food and water bowls. If you have a larger dog breed then the bowls should be raised off the floor. Make sure you always leave fresh water out for your puppy.

Dog Food  

When you first bring your puppy home it is best to talk to your vet about which food is best for them. The breeder will also be able to help recommend food and will tell you what food your puppy has been weaned onto. Some breeders will provide a small amount of this food to new owners as part of their “puppy pack”.  

Food Storage 

A puppy-proof food storage container is useful for stopping your curious puppy from getting into their food when your back is turned. An airtight container will also help to keep your dog's food fresh. 

Puppy Treats 

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Treats are great for training so it’s a good idea to have a few different treat options on hand as an incentive for your dog to learn new things. A treat pouch can also be useful so you can keep treats close by so you can reward your dog as and when you need to. 

Crate and Safety Gates 

Crates are an extremely useful tool that can be used to keep your puppy safe when you need to go out and leave them on their own. A crate can make all the difference in the early days. Make sure you choose a crate that is going to be large enough for your dog once fully grown. The crate should have bedding and a couple of toys to help make it a comfortable place for your puppy to be. 

Another safety tool that may be useful is child gates to stop your dog from going into certain rooms or going upstairs. 

Puppy Pads  

Puppy pads are very useful as a training tool when toilet training your new family member. Puppy pads can make clean-up easier and also give your puppy a good starting point when learning where they should go to the toilet.  

Adjustable Collar 

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Your new puppy should have a comfortable, good-quality collar that fits well. As puppies grow quickly it is important to check the size of the collar every couple of days. You should be able to slip two fingers under the collar but the collar should not be too large that it can slip over your puppy’s head. 

Car Harness 

When your dog is in the car, they need to be either in a secure car harness, a fixed car cage, or a crate. Choose the type of restraint that will best suit your dog and situation. 

Coat/ Protective Clothing 

If your dog has a short coat or will be clipped short, they may need a coat or jumper to help protect them from the cold when out on walks.  

ID Tag 

All dogs need to wear an identity tag on their collar when out in public. This tag needs to be inscribed with the name and address of the owner. This is required by law and it is very important to comply with this, even if your dog is microchipped. 

Toys 

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Your new puppy will need a selection of puzzle toys, chew toys, and fetch toys that will help keep them stimulated, keep their teeth clean, and also gives them something safe and appropriate to chew on. When choosing toys for your puppy, make sure the toys are not too small as they can be a choking risk. 

Leads 

A good lead must be a good size for your dog. Look at the length and weight of the lead and consider how strong and comfortable the lead is for both you and your puppy. In addition to leads, you may decide to use head collars or harnesses to help prevent your dog from pulling when on walks. 

Poo Bags 

Clearing up after your dog is required by law so you will need a plentiful supply of poo bags (or nappy sacks or sandwich bags). After you have cleared up after your dog, the bag can be disposed of in a dog poo bin, or other appropriate bin.  

Grooming Tools 

Choose grooming tools based on your puppy’s breed and coat type. A good brush that suits your dog’s coat is a must. In addition to this, some dogs need to be hand stripped or clipped, speak to a professional groomer for advice on this. Dogs also need their nails trimmed regularly, this can either be done at home using pet nail clippers or by a vet or groomer. 

Shampoo 

A gentle puppy shampoo will help keep your puppy clean and comfortable. Shampoo should only be used every couple of months (or when your dog has rolled in something or has been swimming). 

Toothbrush and Toothpaste 

A dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste are important to help prevent gum disease. Brushing your dog's teeth from a young age will help them get used to it being a part of their routine so the earlier you can start the better.

Cleaning Products 

Accidents happen and it’s best to be prepared with the essentials such as carpet cleaner, paper towel, and disinfectant.  

Pet Insurance 

Don’t forget to get pet insurance for your puppy. This will help you get your puppy veterinary treatment without breaking the bank. 

With the items on this new puppy checklist list checked off, you’ll be ready to welcome your new puppy home. 

Before you buy a dog, take a look at our puppy buying advice for important information, key questions to ask, and things to look out for when purchasing a dog. 

You can learn more about caring for your new puppy through our guides including; what to buy, how to take care of your puppy’s health, and when it is safe to take your puppy for their first walk too.