The internet will happily sell you 60 things before your puppy comes home. You don't need 60 things. You need a handful that make the first week calmer for you and your dog, and the rest can wait until you know your puppy's personality.
Here's the new puppy checklist we'd actually use.
Sleep and settling in
- A crate sized for your puppy. Big enough to stand up, turn around and lie down. Many crates come with a divider so the space can grow with your dog.
- Soft, washable bedding. Expect accidents in week one. Anything you can toss in the wash is a win.
- Something to do in the crate. A lick mat spread with a little plain yogurt or wet food gives your puppy something calm to focus on, and helps the crate feel like a good place instead of a punishment.
Food and water
- The same food your breeder or shelter was using. Switching food suddenly can upset a puppy's stomach. If you want to change, ask your vet how to transition slowly.
- Food and water bowls. Stainless steel or ceramic are easy to clean.
- Water on the go. Puppies get thirsty fast on walks and car rides. A portable dog water bottle with a built-in cup means you're not cupping water in your hands at the park.
Walks and training
- A collar and ID tag with your phone number, plus a standard 4 to 6 foot leash.
- Small, soft training treats. Tiny pieces work best, since you'll be handing out a lot of them.
- Visibility for dark walks. Early mornings and evenings get dark fast in fall and winter. A light up LED collar makes your puppy easy to spot in the yard or on the sidewalk.
- A warm layer for cold weather. Small and short-coated puppies feel the cold. A winter jacket with a built-in harness saves you from layering gear every time you head out.
Grooming and bath time
- A gentle dog shampoo and an old towel or two.
- A soft brush to get your puppy used to being handled.
- A distraction. The same lick mat that helps with crate time works wonders in the tub or during a nail trim. Stick it to the wall, add a thin layer of peanut butter (xylitol-free) and let your puppy lick while you work.
Health
- A vet visit in the first week or two. Bring any records from your breeder or shelter.
- Enzyme cleaner for accidents. Regular cleaners can leave a scent that brings puppies back to the same spot.
The one thing people forget
Your puppy will never be this small again. Save that tiny paw with a clean-touch paw print kit in the first few weeks, and do it again on their first birthday to see how much they've grown.
What can wait
Fancy beds, big toy bundles, and gear for activities you haven't tried yet can all wait a few weeks. Once you know whether your puppy is a chewer, a cuddler or a zoomie machine, you'll buy smarter.
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