Many first-time dog owners start by asking themselves, “should I get a dog?” And voila! One week later little Fido comes running into the house. There’s a lot to be excited about when bringing home a new puppy, but one of the best parts is deciding on your new pet’s name. Don’t forget to snap the memorable moments during snuggle time to create a pawsome dog photo album.
When you adopt a puppy, you’re investing for the next two decades in pet supplies and love. To help smooth the transition of bringing home your new best friend, we’ve compiled a new puppy checklist. That way, there’s less thinking and more play time those first few weeks. Customize this new puppy checklist by checking off the items you already have, then download and print the checklist for your shopping trip.
- Puppy Food
- Puppy Health Care
- House Training
- Walking Supplies
- Dog Grooming
- Puppy Toys and Chews
- Dog Travel Accessories
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Puppy Food
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Food and Water Bowls
Food doesn’t belong on the floor! The solution is two separate pet bowls.
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Dry Food and Wet Food
Puppies need to learn how to eat. Having a mix of dry and wet food helps your pup digest more easily.
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Puppy Supplements
Optional, but during your first few visits to the veterinarian, ask if they recommend any personalized supplements for your new pet.
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Puppy Health Care
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Dog Health Insurance
Yes, pups need insurance too! Make sure to get them covered as soon as they come home.
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Vaccines
A healthy dog is a happy dog. Vaccines are important so you can take your dog out in public and to the dog park.
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Heartworm Medication
Young puppies are susceptible to heartworm disease so check with your local vet about which heartworm medication is right for your pet.
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Flea and Tick Medicine
You’ll want to protect all of your pets, but especially if your new dog is playing in the yard all day!
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Parasite Testing
Always a smart thing to have done during check-ups.
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Microchip
Optional, but very handy for making sure you can find your best friend if they’re lost.
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House Training Supplies
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Two Sets of Dog Beds
Two dog beds are always better than one! Puppies sometimes don’t know better and life happens, so it’s handy to have extra.
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Cleaning Supplies
This includes odor-neutralizing carpet spray and enzyme cleaner to get rid of accidents.
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Puppy House Training Pads
If you’re gone for long hours these puppy house training pads save the day.
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Dog Gate(s)
Your pup might try wandering the house and potentially tear up a room with no supervision.
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Training Clicker
Training clickers are helpful for nailing down tricks.
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Treats
Good behavior should always be rewarded.
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Carpet Steam Cleaner
Optional, but incredibly helpful with stains.
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Walking Supplies
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Adjustable Collar
This makes it easy to adjust your dog’s collar size as they grow.
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Dog Tags
Make sure to include your dog’s name, plus your phone number and address on their dog tag.
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Leashes
You’ll need a dog leash that’s short for quick walks and one that is a little bit longer for lead training.
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Harness
This is a great choice for those puppies who always want to play with other dogs during walks.
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Waste Cleanup Bags
Always remember to pick up your puppy’s waste! Stay clean while doing so.
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Scooper for Waste
Helpful in making sure everyone and everything stays sanitary.
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Dog Grooming Supplies
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Soft Bristle Brush
Good for short-haired breeds to clean their fur.
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Metal Comb
Detangles mats, loose hair and dirt for all types of dog fur.
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Deshedder Brush
Helps prevent fur from getting all over your furniture and home.
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Puppy Shampoo
Gets rid of those unwanted doggy smells.
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Nail Trimmers
Those nails don’t trim themselves! Make sure to watch tutorial videos or ask your veterinarian for a lesson before your first time.
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Puppy Dental Care Kit
This includes dental chews, toothbrushes and paste for your puppy’s teeth.
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Deodorizing Spray
For when you don’t have time for the whole bath.
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Grooming Appointments
Every once in a while, a deep clean for your pup is necessary.
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Puppy Toys And Chews
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Stuffed Animals
Many puppies love stuffed animals, but be careful they don’t tear the toy up, since they can potentially eat the stuffing.
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Freezable Toys
These help numb the pain of teething.
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Puppy Play Toys
Puppies love tennis balls, frisbees and rope or tug toys.
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Treat Dispensing Toys
These toys can keep your new pup busy for hours.
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Bitter Apple Spray
Spray on furniture and other items that the puppy shouldn’t chew on.
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Dog Travel Accessories
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Pet Carrier for Small Dogs
This comes in handy when flying or driving with small pets.
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Large Travel Crate or Bed
When dogs join in on road trips it’s sometimes easier to have them in a secured crate while in the car.
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Collapsible Food and Water Bowls
Don’t forget to grab these to make feeding your pup on to go easy.
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Dog Travel Bag
This can contain extra water, snacks, treats and even a toy to keep your pet satisfied. Use a pet luggage tag, personalized for your pup, to keep track of your bag.
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Bench Seat Cover
Your car doesn’t have to be as furry as your critter!
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Doggie Clothes
Dress your puppy up in adorable pet accessories and gifts, such as a bandana and dog t-shirt.
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Printable New Puppy Checklist
If you’re a new puppy parent, the first few days can be hectic. This printable checklist will help you get organized with the essentials, so your new best friend will feel right at home that first day.
This new puppy checklist comes in handy and prepares you to not forget anything, even chew toys. If you want to make your pup feel like a true king or queen, get inspired with DIY dog room ideas.
You might have to share that adorable face via social media — friends and family love puppy pics. We have some great dog captions and quotes that you can freely use to post with, and make sure to follow our guide to capturing the cuteness with puppy photos.
