After picking a breed, getting your family ready, and meeting the perfect pet, you might think you’re ready to bring your new puppy home. Before that happens, however, there are some important items to check off your new puppy checklist. In addition to sorting out a vet checkup and vaccinations, you will also want to go shopping and stock up on certain items before you bring your dog home. Trust us — you won’t want to leave your new little furball behind for one second in order to go shopping after you bring them home!
Here’s what you need to have on hand to ensure your pet’s first days at home go off without a hitch, from dog chews to leashes:
Dogs are den animals. This means they feel comfort in cozy nooks and providing them a space of their own is essential. Get at least one small bed that will fit your puppy so they have somewhere soft and warm to take a nap. You might also wish to get multiple dog beds depending on whether or not you will be letting the dog up on the furniture.
You might want to get a crate as well. Crates also help new puppies remain well-behaved during potty training and transportation (though some dog parents don’t like to use crates, so this is a personal decision). Make sure that the crate is big enough for your pooch to feel comfortable, but not large enough for them to move around and make a mess in.
It may seem like a no-brainer, but purchasing quality food and water bowls is a new puppy must. Opt for stainless steel to avoid any allergicreactions your pooch may have with plastic. Stainless steel is also made to last and easy to clean, making it a great choice for food and water bowls. Make sure to buy small bowls that are sized to your puppy, and upgrade them later if they grow a lot.
Once you’ve secured food and water bowls, it’s time to fill them! The next item on your new puppy checklist is dog food that’s made for younger dogs. Since puppies grow at a rapid rate, they need more protein and nutrients than the average adult dog. Puppy dog food is richer in nutrients to help your puppy stay healthy and strong. Ask your vet if you need suggestions for what brand of dog food to buy.
In addition, high-quality dog treats and chews are a must to reward your puppy and assist in training them. Long-lasting chews like bullysticks for dogs can promote dental health and soothe sore teething gums. Check out our selection of the best dog treats for puppies to find choices that your dog will enjoy.
Shop Healthy Bully Sticks for DogsNew puppies are notorious chewers. To avoid unwanted holes in shoes or chunks eaten out of furniture, it’s wise to pick up a few squeaky chew toys for your pup to gnaw on instead. In addition, you should also take steps to puppy-proof your house. Chew toys are no replacement for removing items that you definitely don’t want destroyed.
Select a leash and collar of the appropriate size and length for your dog. Smaller dogs should wear harnesses instead of collars to reduce the risk of harming their necks. As your dog grows, you will need to size up to accommodate their larger neck or chest. Don’t try to save money by buying a size too large to let your dog “grow into it.” They might slip out of it and run away.
Once you’ve got a leash and collar, it’s a good idea to pick up personalized dog tags. These can include vaccination records or your contact information in case your pup gets lost. Even if you plan to microchip your dog, they should have tags on them as well.
Sooner or later, your new pup will get dirty. While shopping for your new puppy checklist, be sure to pick up a wire brush and shampoo for at-home grooming. If you’re feeling brave enough, you can also invest in some at-home nail clippers instead of paying the groomer or vet to clip their nails for you.
To clean up indoor dog messes, invest in an enzyme stain remover that is meant to be used on urine and otherpet stains. This type of cleaner removes smells that only your dog can pick up. Since dogs love to “go” in the same place more than once, it’s important you get rid of that smell right away.
Ready to spoil your new puppy with healthy treats? Browse our selection of dog treats or consider a subscription for your favorite items so that you don’t have to worry about running out.
Comments will be approved before showing up.
