Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting and joyful experience. It's the beginning of a beautiful relationship with your new furry family member. As new puppy parents, you need to be well-prepared for this addition to your household by making sure you have all the necessities your new dog will need.
Whether you're a minimalist looking for just the basics or a maximalist who wants to spoil your puppy with every comfort imaginable, our comprehensive new puppy checklist will help you get ready for everything your puppy might need.
Preparing for Your New Puppy

Before your pup arrives, it's important to get your home ready. Here are some steps to make the transition smooth for both you and your new dog:
Much like baby-proofing, pet parents should puppy-proof their home to make sure it is safe for a curious pup. Remove anything that could be harmful or that you don't want to be chewed.
Here are some tips for puppy-proofing your home:
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Secure Hazardous Items: Store cleaning supplies, medications, and small objects out of reach.
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Electrical Safety: Puppies love to chew, so hide or protect electrical cords and unplug appliances when not in use.
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Furniture and Décor: Stabilize heavy furniture and remove fragile items from accessible areas.
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Secure Trash and Food: Use trash cans with secure lids and store food safely to prevent access.
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Create Safe Spaces: Use a puppy gate (or a baby gate) to block off unsafe areas or set up a playpen for a controlled environment.
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Outdoor Safety: Ensure your yard is securely fenced and remove or fence off toxic plants.
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Designate Puppy Areas: Decide where your puppy will sleep, eat, and play. Having these areas set up in advance will help your puppy adjust more quickly.
Puppy Essentials
Even if you're a minimalist who likes to stick with the basics, there are a few supplies every pet parent will need for their new fur baby.
Here's a list of the basic puppy essentials you'll need before bringing your puppy home:
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Dog Bed: A comfortable place for your puppy to sleep is a must. Make sure it's cozy and appropriately sized. Remember, puppies LOVE to chew, so you may consider getting a chew-proof dog bed that is durable enough to withstand your puppy's teeth.
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Dog Bowls: You'll need separate bowls for food and water. Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easy to clean and durable.
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Puppy Food: Choose a high-quality food specifically formulated for puppies. Consult your vet for recommendations on the right dog food for your breed and size.
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Leash and Collar: These are necessary for walks and outings. Make sure the collar has an ID tag with your contact information.
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Crate: A crate provides a safe space for your puppy and is an essential tool for house training.
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Chew Toys and Teething Toys: Provide a variety of safe chew toys to keep your new puppy entertained and protect your belongings.
Feeding and Nutrition

Proper nutrition is vital for your puppy's growth and development. A well-balanced diet provides the essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals needed for building strong bones, developing healthy muscles, and supporting overall bodily functions.
Choosing the right dog food, specifically formulated for puppies, ensures they receive the appropriate levels of protein, fat, and carbohydrates necessary for their rapid growth phases. Establishing a consistent feeding schedule not only helps with their physical health but also aids in their training and behavior by creating a routine.
Incorporating healthy dog treats into their diet can be beneficial for training and rewarding good behavior, while ensuring their caloric intake remains balanced. Consult with your veterinarian who can help you select the best food options and create a feeding plan tailored to your puppy's specific breed, size, and health needs.
Here are some tips to consider:
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Choosing the Right Puppy Food: Look for food that is specifically designed for puppies and meets all their nutritional needs.
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Feeding Schedule: Establish a consistent feeding schedule to help with house training and to keep your puppy's energy levels stable.
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Dog Treats: Use treats for training and rewarding good behavior. Choose healthy options that won't upset your puppy's stomach.
Grooming Supplies
Regular grooming keeps your puppy looking and feeling great. If you plan to groom your new pup at home, here's what you'll need:
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Brush and Comb: Choose a brush that's suitable for your puppy's coat type. Regular brushing reduces pet hair around the house and keeps your puppy's coat healthy.
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Shampoo and Conditioner: Use a mild shampoo designed for puppies. Avoid human products as they can irritate your puppy's skin.
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Nail Clippers: Keep your puppy's nails trimmed to avoid discomfort and potential injuries.
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Ear Cleaner: Regular ear cleaning helps prevent infections. Use a vet-recommended cleaner and follow the instructions carefully.
Training and Behavior Tools
Training your puppy is key to having a well-behaved adult dog and can make all the difference in building a harmonious and enjoyable relationship between you and your new furry family member.
Here are some items to help you with training your new puppy:
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Training Treats: Small, tasty treats are great for positive reinforcement during training sessions.
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Clicker: Clicker training is a popular method for teaching new commands and tricks.
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Puppy Pads: These can be helpful during the house training phase, especially if you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor access.
You may also want to consider hiring a dog trainer or enrolling in puppy training classes. A professional dog trainer can provide valuable guidance and help address any behavioral issues.
Safety and Comfort Items
Creating a safe and comfortable environment for your puppy is essential. Here are some items to consider:
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Puppy Gates: These can keep your puppy out of areas where they shouldn't be and help with house training.
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Playpen: A playpen provides a safe space for your puppy to play and explore without getting into trouble.
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Comfort Items: Soft blankets and toys can help your puppy feel secure and comfortable in their new home.
Toys and Enrichment

Toys are not just for fun; they also provide mental and physical stimulation for new puppies.
Here's a variety of toys your puppy will love:
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Chew Toys: These are great for teething puppies and help prevent destructive chewing.
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Interactive Toys: Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys keep your puppy's mind active and engaged.
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Fetch Toys: Balls and frisbees are perfect for playing fetch and burning off energy.
Travel and Transportation
When traveling with your puppy, safety and comfort are key. Here are some items you'll need if you plan to travel with your new puppy:
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Car Harness or Crate: Secure your puppy in the car with a harness or travel crate to keep them safe during car rides.
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Travel Bowls: Collapsible bowls are convenient for feeding and watering your puppy on the go.
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Travel Bed or Blanket: A portable bed or blanket provides a familiar and comfortable place for your puppy to rest during trips. You can also get a backseat car cover to help protect your vehicle from pet hair and scratches.
Health and Veterinary Care
Keeping your puppy healthy is a top priority. Here are some important steps:
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Vet Visits: Schedule an initial vet visit soon after bringing your puppy home. Regular check-ups are important for vaccinations and overall health.
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Pet Insurance: Consider getting pet insurance to help cover unexpected medical expenses. It's a worthwhile investment for new puppy parents.
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Puppy Teeth Care: Puppies start teething at a few months old. Provide appropriate teething toys and begin brushing their teeth early to establish good dental habits.
Socialization and Bonding

Socialization is key for your puppy's development. Here are some tips for bonding and socializing:
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Puppy Playdates: Arrange playdates with other puppies to help your puppy learn social skills and burn off energy.
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Exposure to Different Environments: Introduce your puppy to various environments, sounds, and experiences to build their confidence.
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Quality Time: Spend quality time playing, training, and cuddling with your puppy to strengthen your bond.
Budget Considerations
Owning a puppy involves financial commitments, and it's important to be prepared for the various expenses you may encounter. Initial costs may include the purchase price or adoption fee, initial vet visits, vaccinations, and basic supplies.
Ongoing costs include regular expenses such as food, treats, grooming, and routine veterinary care. You should also budget for emergency costs, which can arise unexpectedly; having savings set aside or investing in pet insurance can help manage these unforeseen medical expenses.
Welcoming Your Puppy Home

Bringing a puppy into your home is a wonderful experience that comes with a lot of responsibility. By following this new puppy checklist, you'll be well-prepared to provide your new furry family member with a loving and nurturing environment. Enjoy every moment with your new companion, and cherish the bond you'll build over the years.