Hands of female holding a white french bulldog puppy with sleepy face.

The Ultimate New Puppy Checklist: What to Get for Your Pet

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Bringing a new puppy home is the most exciting and joyous time. But it also comes with a great deal of responsibility.

If you want to ensure your new furry friend has all the essentials needed to be happy and healthy, read on for all the puppy essentials and important supplies to make your puppy feel right at home.

French Bulldog Puppy sleeping on dog bed

New Puppy Checklist

  1. Comfortable bedding: a cozy bed is essential for your puppy to feel comfortable and secure. Look for a bed that’s the right size for your breed and provides plenty of support and, of course, all the snugs.
  2. Nutritious puppy food: proper nutrition is essential on the puppy checklist for your puppy to grow and develop well. Invest in the best food you can afford that is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional demands of your dog’s life stage. If you’re overwhelmed by all the options, ask your vet for a recommendation.
  3. Pet insurance: making provisions for unexpected veterinary care is highly recommended. Insurance for emergency treatment offers you the peace of mind that comes with knowing any future emergencies are covered.
  4. Stainless steel bowls: stainless steel is always highly recommended when choosing the right bowls for food and water. They are super durable, easy to clean, resistant to bacteria, hygienic, and won’t develop any weird smells.
  5. Safe chew toys: your puppy will want to chew on things, so appropriate and safe toys are must-haves for new puppies. Look for toys made of non-toxic materials that are designed for puppies to chew on them. Failing to provide appropriate chew toys will force your pup to chow down on whatever it can find, including shoes, clothes, and furnishings.
  6. Collar and ID tag: ensure your puppy wears a collar with an ID tag detailing your most up-to-date contact information. If your dog gets out or gets lost, this puppy essential will help get them home sooner.
  7. A sturdy leash: a leash is a puppy essential and a must-have for walks and outings with your pup. Choose a leash that is comfortable for both you and your dog and appropriate for the size of your dog.
  8. A crate or kennel: a crate or kennel offers your puppy a safe and secure place where your puppy can stay for short periods; you’re not able to supervise them. Look for something large enough for your puppy to stand, turn around and lie down comfortably.
  9. Puppy pads: in the first stages of potty training, puppy pads will do the absolute most to contain accidents until your puppy learns to go outside.
  10. Poop baggies: cleaning up after your puppy is an important part of being a pet owner. Ensure you always carry poop bags on walks and outings to keep your surroundings clean.
  11. Grooming supplies: whether your puppy has a long coat or shorter hair, purchase appropriate grooming tools to keep them always looking neat. Nail clippers, dog shampoo, and ear-cleaning solutions are also invaluable.
  12. Treats: treats are more than just yummy snacks. When successfully training your puppy, having treats to reward your pup for good behavior is essential. Look for nutritious treats made from high-quality ingredients.
  13. Stain and odor remover: accidents will most likely happen despite all your best efforts, particularly during the early months. To deal with smells and stains, invest in a high-quality odor and stain remover to keep your home fresh and clean.
  14. Veterinary care: schedule an appointment with a veterinarian as soon as possible after bringing your puppy home for the first time. This ensures your new bestie receives all the correct vaccinations, deworming, and a thorough health check-up.
  15. Pet gates: first, it’s advisable to keep your puppy in a small area to help them feel safe and secure before unleashing them into your whole house. Also, there may be areas you’d like to keep puppy-free.
  16. Deterrent spray: deterrent spray is a handy investment to deter your curious puppy from chewing on furniture or other household items. The deterrent spray works best with an appropriate chew toy to redirect your dog’s nibbly tendencies.
  17. Pet first-aid kit: chances are good that your curious little puppy will find itself in a spot of trouble on occasion. For those times, it’s essential to have a pet first-aid kit that includes bandages, tweezers, and antiseptic ointment.
  18. Patience and love: these qualities are essential. Shower your new little sidekick with love and affection to build a strong bond between you. And when your little darling gets into trouble, a healthy dose of patience will save the day.
  19. Interactive toys: are an important part of your puppy’s development. Interactive toys that stimulate and challenge your pup are highly recommended, as are remote pet toys that you can use to interact with your pet at home while you’re out.

Final thoughts

With this ultimate new puppy checklist, you’ll be prepared to start life with your new puppy on the right foot.

Making a happy home for your new companion is easy when ticking this list of essentials.