The Ultimate New Puppy Essentials Checklist

So you've become a parent to a new fur baby, congratulations! A new puppy that will give you love and affection and poop and eat your pillows.

Having that new puppy-parent glow, you'll want to be extra aware of all the new puppy essentials you're going to need. But, no worries. Keep on reading to learn all about your dog essentials and supplies you need to pick up.

New Puppy Essentials 101: Food

Preparation is key when it comes to welcoming a new puppy into your family, so you'll want to ensure that you have puppy food on hand.

Healthy adult dogs are the result of well-fed puppies. Be sure to keep a supply of the food your puppy has been reared on hand at home to minimize upset stomachs during what may already be a stressful period.

Your veterinarian will be able to recommend the best diet for your puppy after they've settled in. For puppies, your veterinarian may prescribe puppy-specific formulations as well as advise on how to transition their diet.

Puppies Treats

It's important to reward your puppy for good behavior. Be on the lookout for sweets that are minimal in fat and calories, but yet soft and chewable.

Despite the fact that treats may assist create a strong relationship and encourage good behaviors throughout training, they shouldn't account for more than 10% of your pet's entire diet.

Bowls for Food and Water

Dedicated dishes for food and water are necessary for your dog. Even if you just put out your puppy's food dish during mealtimes, you should always have a supply of freshwater nearby.

Slow-feeding bowls are a good option if your puppy tends to overeat. They are intended to assist your puppy to eat more slowly.

Collars and Other Must-Haves

A walk will help your puppy's sociability and leash-walking manners. Make certain you have a sturdy leash and collar before you go.

To prevent your puppy from pulling, speak with a dog trainer or a shop associate about other training techniques. You should affix a tag to your puppy's collar with his or her name and contact information.

And, if you're looking for a good quality harness, you should shop here for one.

Crate

It takes time and persistence to successfully housetrain a new dog. Crate training provides your puppy with a sense of security while also reducing the likelihood of messes on the carpet and improper chewing on unsecured shoes and other belongings.

When you're away from the home for long periods of time, such as at work or while you're sleeping, it's best to cage your puppy. If you want to assist your dog, learn more about crate training techniques.

Specialized Cleaning Products

New pet owners can expect messes with puppies since they aren't generally potty-trained. To get rid of pee stains, look for an enzyme cleanser and only use pet-safe products.

You should be prepared to deal with dog hair and dander in your house. Extensions or skills for cleaning pet hair may come in helpful while using vacuums.

Toys and Puzzles

Your new puppy needs mental stimulation, and toys are an excellent method for you to do it. To keep your puppy entertained and involved, look for puppy-specific toys, which are often smaller and more suited to tiny puppy teeth.

Make time in your schedule to play and strengthen your relationship with your pup.

Dog Bed

Even if your puppy spends the night in a cage, you should still get a dog bed for him. During the day, your puppy may take a nap on the bed, and it will serve as another safe haven for them to go to when they need a break.

The perfect dog bed should be one that grows with your puppy's breed and size, but it should also be durable enough to withstand chewing if your puppy is left alone with it. If your puppy is teething, you may want to consider giving him a sturdy blanket or bed, along with close monitoring.

Grooming Aids: Shampoo and Brushes

Basic grooming tools should be kept at home, regardless of whether you intend to take your dog to a professional. Styptic powder, a canine-friendly shampoo, nail clippers, a comb, and a brush are all necessities for any pet owner.

Whenever you bathe your puppy, be sure you use a canine-specific shampoo. Do not wash your dog with human shampoo.

Consult your veterinarian about any drugs or preventative measures that your puppy needs. Flea and tick prevention, as well as a monthly heartworm preventative, might be included.

How to Get Ready for a New Pet: The Puppy Edition

There are a number of things you need to do before bringing a puppy into your house, including purchasing all the necessities and preparing for training.

Make the move as easy as possible by following these tips.

Set Up Your Place

Take the time to set apart a designated area of the house for your dog and their belongings.

A feeding place and a crate should be included in this section. Your puppy will not feel alone and lonely if it is located near to where you spend most of your time with your family.

Puppy gates may be used to keep your pet safe in places like stairwells and basements. By closing cupboards, hiding wiring, and getting rid of any dangerous plants your dog has access to, you may make your house safe for him.

Find a Veterinary Clinic

Even if a shelter, rescue agency or breeder has given your puppy a clean bill of health, you should take your puppy to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Make an appointment with a local qualified veterinarian to see your puppy and have a general checkup performed.

Setting up Things for a New Puppy: Explained

There's very little out there that can match the unbridled joy of welcoming a new puppy to your family. But, you'll want to make sure that you're actually ready to do so with no issues.

We hope that our guide on the new puppy essentials has shed some light on what you need to grab and do. Also, you should check out our pets section for all of our additional tips and explainers.