Bringing home a puppy is one of life's happiest days. It's also a lot to think about. Getting the basics ready before your puppy arrives means you can spend those first days bonding instead of running to the store.
Feeding essentials
- Puppy food: start with the same food the breeder or shelter was using, then switch slowly over 7–10 days if you want to change.
- Food and water bowls: stainless steel or ceramic are easy to clean. A slow-feeder bowl helps fast eaters.
- Training treats: small, soft and tasty, because you'll be using lots of them.
- A food storage container to keep kibble fresh.
Sleep and comfort
- A crate sized so your puppy can stand, turn around and lie down. Many crates come with a divider so they grow with your dog.
- A cozy bed or washable crate mat.
- A soft blanket. Ask the breeder for one that smells like mom and littermates; it really helps the first nights.
Walks and safety
- A collar with an ID tag showing your phone number.
- A harness and a 4–6 ft leash. A harness is gentler on little necks while your pup learns to walk nicely.
- Baby gates to block stairs and rooms you're not ready to puppy-proof.
- Poop bags and a leash dispenser.
Toys and chewing
Puppies explore with their mouths, and teething makes them want to chew everything. Give them good options:
- A few durable chew toys sized for your puppy
- A puzzle toy or treat-dispensing toy for mental exercise
- A soft toy for cuddling and gentle play
Rotate toys every few days to keep them interesting, and always supervise with new toys.
Grooming and cleaning
- A brush suited to your puppy's coat
- Puppy-safe shampoo
- Nail clippers or a grinder
- An enzyme cleaner for accidents. It removes the smell so your pup doesn't return to the same spot.
Puppy-proof your home
- Tuck away electrical cords and chargers.
- Move shoes, socks and kids' toys out of reach.
- Keep trash cans covered.
- Store medicines, cleaning products and foods that are dangerous for dogs (like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions and anything with xylitol) up high.
Your first-week plan
- Book a vet visit within the first few days for a check-up and to plan vaccines and deworming.
- Set a routine: same times for meals, potty breaks, play and naps. Puppies need to go out after waking, eating and playing.
- Keep it calm: let your puppy explore one or two rooms at a time before meeting lots of new people.
- Start gentle training: their name, sit and crate time, all with treats and praise.
Make it easy with a printable checklist
Want all of this on one page you can tick off? Our New Puppy Checklist printable covers shopping, puppy-proofing and your first-week routine. Print it, stick it on the fridge, and enjoy every wiggly moment.
This guide is general information. Your vet is the best source of advice for your puppy's specific health needs.
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