Updated: 21/08/2024
We’ve compiled this handy guide to ensure you will have everything you need for your new puppy.
It’s important to get the essentials but also to think ahead, as your puppy’s needs will change as they grow.
New Puppy Checklist:
Dog bed
Choose one that’s not too easy to chew through, ideally with a machine washable cover for any mishaps and room for your puppy to grow.
Crate
This will serve as your puppy’s den or safe place!
It needs to be big enough that as an adult, your dog will be able to stand up, turn around, lay down and stretch out comfortably.
Food and water bowls
These will need to be the correct size and type for your dog, for example, dogs with flat faces will struggle with very deep bowls.
Stainless steel and ceramic bowls are good, non-chewable options.
Bowls ideally need to be heavy enough that your puppy can’t tip them over and not too deep if your puppy is very small.
Food
Select a complete puppy food to support your puppy’s growth and all their nutritional needs. Always check what food your puppy is already being fed and if you plan to change this, make the transition slowly to avoid tummy upsets.
Speak to your local veterinary practice if you need further advice.
Treats
Always check any training treats are puppy safe, and then check what the recommended portion size is on the packet.
Don’t forget you can also use some of your puppy’s regular food (taken from their daily ration) to reward good behaviour.
Toys
Any toys should be puppy safe. As a rule, rubber ones tend to be more durable and resistant to chewing – they are easy to clean too!
You can also make feeding fun and keep your puppy’s brain busy by using puzzle feeders or other feeding toys.
Collar and lead
Dogs legally need a collar or an ID tag that states their name and the address of their owner, when in a public place.
It’s helpful to choose a collar that is adjustable in size as your puppy grows.
It needs to be snug and secure, but not too tight or so loose that it slips over their head.
Also, consider purchasing a long line to assist with training.
Stock up on cleaning products
Use pet safe cleaning agents which are not heavily scented to clean up any accidents.
Pet safe enzymatic cleaners are great for cleaning up urine and eliminating odours.
Puppy training pads
These are very handy for toilet training and for catching any leaks or spills around the food and water bowls.
Poo bags
Poo bags are essential for any dog owner! Why not do your bit for the environment and opt for plastic free, biodegradable poo bags?
Grooming equipment
When choosing grooming equipment, it’s important to choose brushes and combs that are appropriate for your puppy’s coat type, and any shampoo bought should be dog safe.
Groom mitts and rubber massage brushes can be used for relaxation and for removing loose coat.
If you are confident cutting your puppy’s claws, then you can purchase dog nail clippers to use at home.
However, if you need any help with this, it is best to speak to your local veterinary practice or a dog groomer for support (accidentally cutting a claw too short is very painful and can make your puppy worried about having their nails clipped in future).
Dental care
It’s sensible to get your puppy used to having their teeth brushed from a young age.
You’ll need a dog safe, flavoured toothpaste and an appropriate toothbrush (it can sometimes be easiest to start with a finger toothbrush). Take it slowly and let them gradually get used to the sensation before trying to properly clean all their teeth.
A harness or crate for car travel
Your puppy should be safe and secure when travelling in the car.
This can be done via use of a secured dog guard, crate or car safe dog harness.
Driving without your dog appropriately secured may be classed as ‘driving without due care and attention’, which is a finable offence. It may also invalidate your car insurance in the event of an accident.
Always reach out to your local veterinary practice if you have any questions about your puppy’s general care, diet or health.