New Puppy Checklist: What To Prepare & Gear You’ll Need

You'll want to stick around and read our article because it's got a checklist perfectly curated by none other than a dog training expert. From chow that's more drool-worthy than a T-bone steak to toys that'll make your little pal's tail spin like a helicopter, our list has it all to get a grip over the new-puppy-in-the-house chaos. Happy unleashing the fun!

The Ultimate New Puppy Checklist [Most Needed]

We promise you days filled with love and joy, and a whole lot of slobbery kisses will come once you cover some important groundwork. Read and save this list to get into the real action.

Preparing Your House For a New Puppy

Before getting your pup home, you'll want to puppy-proof your living space. There is a ton that you can do here and many people don't even think about getting their home ready before they bring their pup home.

New Puppy Checklist: Clean up Risky Hazards

Puppies are curious and love to chew on just about anything they can find. There are tons of dangers around our house that we don't even think about. Keep your shoes, wires, and any other potential hazards out of your new pup's reach.

Block Off Areas Of Your Home

One of the most important parts of caring for your new pup is keeping an eye on them. For people with a bigger home, this might include blocking off some areas, so your pup can't get to them. A baby gate is the perfect solution to setup areas where you want to keep your pup.

1. Essentials For Your Puppy

Here is to the beginning of creating personal wellness for your new member. Here are the everyday basics needed for your pup.

1.1 Dog Food

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The first essential we would recommend buying is your dog’s food. We know you thought of that too. However, there are a few pointers to be kept in mind while getting suitable food for your dog. Firstly check if it is FDA-approved. If the packaging says yes, then you have one checkbox ticked. The dog food you pick should be age appropriate for your puppy and most importantly, it should be approved by your vet.

To start with the basics, there are 2 kinds to opt for:

• Dry kibble

  This one is popular for feeding puppies with growing needs. Dry kibble is full of nutrients, helps in teeth cleansing, and is cost-effective. Of course convenient for you to feed.

• Wet food

  Wet dog food is great for hydration. It is also easier for the little tummies to digest and absorb nutrients. Wet food is more palatable with more flavoring and textures. Even the pickiest eaters will love having this.

Here are a few things you should keep in mind when picking puppy food.

• • Growth & Nutrient Focused

    This is a crucial time for puppies in terms of growth and development. You should choose a dog food that provides all essential nutrients. For that, always check the label for guaranteed analysis (GA). You will find the percentages of protein, fat, fiber, and moisture content in it.

  • Grain-Free

    This is specifically for puppies whose bodies don't show acceptance of certain ingredients like grains, corn, soy, etc. If your puppy has a bad history with any of these, get grain-free food. But there've been some studies linking grain-free diets to potential heart problems in dogs. So only dogs that have issues with grains should be on grain free diet. Consult a vet before you make the switch.

High Protein

• Proteins are the building blocks of a dog’s body for healthy and sprouting growth. If your puppy belongs to a large breed, they need more protein and less fat than the average pup.

  But here's the thing – too much protein isn't good either so you don't want to overdo it. Just find the right balance. Make sure the ingredient list contains meat like chicken, fish, or beef.

• Limited Ingredient

  This puppy food type contains one protein source and one carbohydrate source. These are ideal for curbing the intolerance or sensitivities puppies develop to certain ingredients. GMOs, artificial flavoring, color preservatives, or dairy products – it can be anything. Just make sure that there is no compromise on the growth nutrients.

  Remember that trying limited-ingredient foods for your dog isn't something you should rush into. The best approach is to consult a vet to figure out if these foods are the right fit for your furry friend.

1.2 Food & Water Bowls

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So next up, you need feeding bowls. You may say, what’s the big deal here – just buy anything deep that serves the purpose. But there’s more to it. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

• • Ergonomic

    Your feeding bowl should be ergonomic. While feeding, it should support a good posture.Elevated twin dog feeding bowls are a popular choice.

• Material

  We recommend stainless steel. It is easier to clean, you are sure that it won't be toxic, and it catches less bacteria. It will last long too. Some people opt for silicon or plastic bowls. Just make sure they are BPA-free, unbreakable, and do not pose a threat to your puppy’s safety.

1.3 Collar & Leash

These are important accessories that come in handy for training your new puppy. Buy a collar that is a perfect fit – not too big and not too small. Once you've adjusted the collar on your dog, do a little test. Try to pull it over their head gently. If you can slip it off easily, your clever pup can do the same. So make sure it's snug and secure. Also, it should be durable, cost-effective, and come with safety perks like reflective strips.

A nylon or leather 6-foot leash is considered ideal. Avoid weak, bungee, or retractable leashes.

1.4 Identification Tag

Get a personalized ID tag that has your dog’s name and your address attached to its collar. Identification tags come in handy in situations like when your puppy tries to go on a solo squirrel hunt.

1.5 Dog Crate & Carrier

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Now this is important. Get a dog crate for your pup asap. Buy one that has good ventilation and a view. The size should be just enough for your pup to get up, turn, and lie down comfortably. Not bigger than that or else you will have piddling accidents in the crate. Check out our article on sizing a crate for more information.

For crate training, you can also get a crate with dividers. When your puppy gets bigger, you can take that divider out. The pup will have the entire crate to stretch out and enjoy all to itself. For vet visits, you will need a carrier. Some crates are portable – buy the one that will save you money. We have a whole article dedicated to helping you learn how to crate your puppy and multiple crate reviews?

1.6 Bedding

Don't let your puppy sleep on the hard floor. Look for a dog bed that gives them enough space to sprawl and snuggle comfortably. If your pup loves to curl up, a donut-style bed is ideal for that cozy feeling. On the other hand, if they're more of a sprawler, a flat and cushioned bed could be the way to go.

However, if you prefer cheap and disposable, then puppy sleeping pads will do. Don't forget to get a soft small blanket as puppies need cuddling up to regulate their body temperature.

1.7 Chew Toys

Teething toys have our vote of confidence. Ones made from rubber or silicone are usually preferred. Do a thumbnail test before getting the chew toy. The size of these dog toys matters too. Don't let it be a choking hazard.

We have full reviews of some of the most popular chew toys, including Benebones and our most indestructible recommendation of Goughnuts.

1.8 Puppy Pads, Poop Bags, & Litter Boxes

Your pup is not going to be potty trained when it comes to you. So for preventing the mess made by accidents happening in the house, you can get puppy pads. We don’t generally recommend using puppy pads since it can make housebreaking harder for you. Many people prefer using them as a quick fix. We would prefer you follow these steps outlined in our House Breaking and Potty Training Article. If you are going to use potty pads we highly recommend you use them outside of your pups crate and always in the same place. This will help the dog know they can go potty only in this area.

Litter boxes can be used for the same purpose,  the one pictured above from Fresh Patch even resembles real grass. You can choose one and don't necessarily have to buy both. Poop bags are great for disposing of poop responsibly. Get the biodegradable ones and pitch in your share for a safer environment.

1.9 Grooming Supplies

Hygiene is important for everyone, even your pup. It needs regular baths to stay healthy. So buy a good quality puppy shampoo. Oatmeal shampoos are naturally gentle and used for curbing any skin allergies. Plus, they elevate the natural shine of the fur. Read the label and pick the dog shampoo suitable for your puppy breed’s hair. Other supplies include:

• Toothpaste
• Toothbrush
• Hairbrushes
• Nail clippers
• Cleaning wipes
• Ear and nose care
• Microfiber bath towels

2. The Healthcare

Here are the things that you need for your puppy’s safety and well-being.

2.1 Vaccinations

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A puppy is scheduled to get its vaccination shots in its very first year to shield them from various diseases like:

• Rabies
• Heartworm
• Leptospirosis
• Kennel cough
• Canine hepatitis
• Canine distemper

The vaccination schedule starts when your puppy hits the 6th week. Here’s a quick look at their schedule.

• First round: 6-8 weeks.
• Second round: 10-12 weeks.
• Third round: 16-18 weeks.
• Fourth round: 12-16 months.
• Next rounds: Every 1-2 years.

Consult your vet for more details on these shots and their frequency.

2.2 Puppy Proofing Supplies

Puppies are just like babies. They are intrigued by everything around them that we specifically don't want them to be with. So you need to puppy-proof your house. If you have stairs – get a stair gate. Electrical sockets – invest in covers. Trash can – hide them. Cords – use cord organizers or cable covers.

Other things to do are:

• Get rid of toxic plants
• Get window treatments
• Keep the toilet bowl lids down
• Put away the medicines or any other hazardous elements in the house

3. The Training Supplies

Training is the most important and inevitable part of this journey. Buying training aid supplies may not be mandatory but they make the whole training process much easier.

3.1 Training Treats

Dog treats are important to keep your pup motivated during the training period. Get organic and natural ones. Consider your dog’s age since these treats come in a large variety.

The size, hardness, and shape of these treats should be convenient for your pup to prevent choking hazards. Check ingredient quality and quantity. It shouldn't contain anything your pup is allergic to. Even look out for the ones that provide sealable bags to keep the chews from going stale. Above all, check if they are FDA approved.

3.2 Training Bells Or Doorbell Mats

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These are both training aids that come in handy for potty training a puppy. Dog training bells are jingly, hanging bells usually attached to a strap. You can hang them on your doorknob or by the door and train your dog to nudge or paw at them when they need to go outside to do their business.

4. The Entertainers

So your new puppy is here just when summer is starting. Talk about perfect timing. If you love spending summertime in your yard or outdoors, these are the things you’ll need.

4.1 Outdoor Toys

To keep your dog entertained while you get an undisturbed golden tan, get them some outdoor toys. A sprinkler pad is a great option to beat the summer heat safely. Other options are ball launchers or simple chew toys suitable for their age.

4.2 Playpen Or Fenced Yard

Your pup is small and new to the place so you wouldn't want it warding off to unknown places or running after squirrels. The solution? A portable and usually foldable enclosure aka playpen. It is the best option if you are an outdoor person who loves soaking up vitamin D.

You can set up the playpen indoors or outdoors, depending on your pet's mood and the weather. It's like giving your pet their own mini playground where they can frolic, stretch their legs, play with toys, or simply lounge around like the royalty they are.

Just look for a playpen that is a suitable size for your puppy. It should come with sturdy stabilizing feet for the ground. But most importantly, the material should be chew-free and non-toxic. Don't forget to monitor your puppy at all costs.

5. The Cleaners

Where there is a puppy, there is going to be a mess. There will be piddling accidents, drool on the couch, and hair on the carpet. Be equipped with these cleaning supplies to keep up with the cleanliness of your home.

5.1 Enzymatic Cleaner

This is a must-have. No compromises here. An enzymatic cleaner is natural with no harmful fumes or effect and thoroughly clean the area where your pup has had an accident. Why is it important for new puppy parents?

Well, you may think that you have cleaned up the X-marked area thoroughly but the dog’s noses are like Sherlock Holmes's magnifying glass. They find their soiled area and mark it as their territory for future elimination. Natural instinct! Enzyme cleaners kill the urine odor and stain from scratch, not leaving a single sign for the puppy to come back.

5.2 Lint Roller

Here’s an insider: a lint roller will be your best friend after you adopt a puppy. There is a healthy amount of shedding that every pup goes through and your clothes or couch will have hair. A lint roller will save the day in these situations.