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<\/p>\nBecoming a pup parent is an exciting time, and you\u2019re undoubtedly already thinking about how much fun and joy your new pooch is going to bring to your home. While your excitement is well-founded, it\u2019s important to not forget that looking after a puppy is a heck of a challenge and a whole lot of responsibility. It requires immeasurable patience, dedication, and tons of hard work. In fact, it is quite literally like having a small child running amok in the house.<\/p>\n
If your home will soon be graced by an adorable pup, you need to be prepared for their arrival. From puppy-friendly toys to grooming supplies, there is a lot to consider and get ready. Luckily, you won\u2019t have to spend your nights stressing over what you need to sort out, and if you forget anything \u2013 we\u2019re here to help.<\/p>\n
Today, we\u2019ve compiled a comprehensive new puppy checklist that covers everything you need to know to become the ultimate pup parent; must-have items, training guidance, how to puppy-proof your home, and more.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Below, we\u2019ll go over all the essential items you\u2019ll need to have ready for your new pup\u2019s arrival. We\u2019ll also cover why these items are important for their wellbeing.<\/p>\n
Keep in mind that some breeds have specialized needs that will require you to buy other items not listed here or avoid some items entirely. For example, small dogs and brachycephalic breeds<\/a> shouldn\u2019t wear collars, as they can worsen breathing problems and even damage the trachea.<\/p>\n Let\u2019s start off with the must-have basics.<\/p>\n It goes without saying your new pup needs a snug place to rest that keeps them off the cold floor. Bolster, elevated, mattress \u2013 there are several types<\/a> of dog beds, each with its own benefits and drawbacks. To begin with, we recommend going for a bolster bed, as this type can help puppies to feel safe, snug, and protected.<\/p>\n When picking a bed, opt for one which is durable and scratch-resistant; puppies are notorious for exploring the world with their paws and claws, and treating everything in it as their personal chew toy!<\/p>\n Since your pup is bound to have accidents, you should also invest in one that\u2019s waterproof or a waterproof bed cover. This will prevent stains and make cleaning hassle-free.<\/p>\n As your pup grows and you become more familiar with their sleeping style, it\u2019s worth looking for a new bed that will better accommodate their needs<\/a>. For example, if you notice they love to sleep stretched out, find a bed that lets them do just that; spacious and no raised edges (mattress style).<\/p>\n Our recommendation:<\/strong> Bedsure Bolster Dog Bed<\/a>.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll need to invest in slip-resistant bowls for their water and food. Material-wise, we recommend stainless steel since it\u2019s easier to clean and doesn\u2019t absorb odors.<\/p>\n Elevated food bowls can potentially help with posture and digestion, but if your pup is a large or giant breed, we advise against using elevated bowls. While elevated bowls were initially thought to help reduce the risk of bloat in big dogs, a recent study<\/a> found that they actually increased <\/em>the risk. Although this finding is still up for debate, it\u2019s best to err on the side of caution and stick to regular bowls for now.<\/p>\n Our recommendation:<\/strong> Mlife Stainless Steel Dog Bowls<\/a>.<\/p>\n Make sure to always buy puppy-friendly food that\u2019s rich in nutrients and easily digestible. Never feed your pup adult dog food. Puppies grow exceptionally fast, so they need food specifically formulated to help their physical development.<\/p>\n Your pup\u2019s exact dietary needs \u2013 and their food schedule<\/a> \u2013 can depend on all sorts of factors, including breed, body condition, and metabolism. Before your new pup arrives, it\u2019s important you research into their breed and history to determine what food is best for them and what their food schedule should look like. As they grow, the amount of food they eat and how often will vary.<\/p>\n At first, you should ideally give your pup the food the adoption facility or breeder has been giving them. If you wish to swap them to a new food, you\u2019ll need to transition<\/a> them off of their original food gradually; otherwise, they\u2019ll be left with an upset stomach.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Purina Pro Plan Puppy Food<\/a>.<\/p>\n A crate provides a den-like space for your pup, where they can feel safe and secure. It has immeasurable benefits; it helps with housebreaking<\/a>, alleviates anxiety, and makes traveling a stress-free affair.<\/p>\n Some misinformed dog owners believe that crating a pup is akin to \u201ccaging\u201d them. But a crate will only cause distress if it\u2019s used inappropriately<\/a>.<\/p>\n Just like dog beds, there are several types of crates. To figure out which type is best for your pup\u2019s needs, as well as which size to get, read our crate guide here<\/a>. In the guide, we also cover how to crate train them effectively.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>MidWest Pet Crate<\/a>.<\/p>\n An ID tag is essential for your dog\u2019s safety; around 14% of dogs get lost<\/a> at least once in their life.<\/p>\n You should include your home address and phone number on their tag. It\u2019s also worth including the message \u201cI\u2019m microchipped\u201d and noting any health issues they have.<\/p>\n Although it\u2019s tempting to add your pup\u2019s name, we advise against this. If they escape and the wrong person spots them, you could be giving this person a means to easily entice your pup to follow them.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>GoTags Stainless Steel ID Tags<\/a>.<\/p>\n As your puppy would say, if they could talk: the more treats, the better! Treats are essential for training, and they can also help relieve boredom and alleviate stress.<\/p>\n Make sure to stock up on a variety of puppy-friendly treats at first, not just one particular type \u2013 your pup might like the taste of some but hate the taste of others.<\/p>\n While it\u2019s important to give treats, don\u2019t overindulge them. If you give them too many, it will reduce their value in your pup\u2019s mind, which will make training more difficult. It could also make them sick and lead to health problems like obesity.<\/p>\n Treat Training Tip<\/strong><\/p>\n Once you\u2019ve figured out your pup\u2019s all-time favorite treat, use it for training purposes only. This will help to keep them motivated during their training sessions.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Wellness Natural Treats<\/a>. When collecting your new pup, bring a blanket with you and rub it over their littermates. The scent will offer your pup a sense of comfort and familiarity, something they\u2019ll definitely appreciate during their first few nights with you<\/a>.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Comsmart Paw Print Blankets<\/a>.<\/p>\n A clicker makes training more efficient, as it allows you to clearly communicate to your pup exactly which behavior you want them to do. It also turns training into a fun game, which helps to keep them interested and eager to learn.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re not familiar with clicker training, make sure to check out AKC\u2019s comprehensive guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>OYEFLY Training Clicker<\/a>.<\/p>\n It\u2019s essential your pup has a cordoned-off area in the house they can call their own. Like a crate, it can help to lessen their anxiety, and it also ensures their safety when you\u2019re unable to supervise them.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>MidWest Foldable Playpen<\/a>.<\/p>\n While looking after a new puppy can be a wonderful experience, there are some moments no owner looks forward to: cleaning up after the never-ending messes they leave behind. Below, we\u2019ll cover all the items you\u2019ll need for dealing with their business.<\/p>\n Your pup is bound<\/em> to have accidents. Potty training takes time, and a puppy\u2019s bladder doesn\u2019t fully develop until they\u2019re around six months old<\/a>.<\/p>\n Pee pads, which are absorbent, easy to clean pads you can place on the floor, help to lessen the chance of accidents in the house; you can train your pup<\/a> to use them if you\u2019re not there to take them outside to relieve themselves.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Amazon Basics Pee Pads<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n Unfortunately, even if you train your pup to use pee pads, they\u2019ll still have accidents every now and again. After all, they\u2019re learning and making sense of the world! Luckily, there are plenty of stain removers out there equipped to deal with your pup\u2019s accidents.<\/p>\n Make sure to opt for an enzymatic cleaner, as this type will eliminate the smell as well as the stain. It also discourages your pup from peeing<\/a> in that area again.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Nature\u2019s Miracle Enzymatic Cleaner<\/a>.<\/p>\n Don\u2019t forget to invest in some high-quality, leak-proof waste bags. Picking up after your dog is anything but pleasant, but doing so is a must; dog waste contains harmful pathogens that can make people and wildlife sick. Plus, most states have legislation in place to combat pet fouling \u2013 if you don\u2019t pick up their waste, you\u2019ll be met with hefty fines.<\/p>\n To make the process a little more bearable, you can purchase scented waste bags and a pooper scooper (see below).<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Earth Rated Poo Bags<\/a>.<\/p>\n A pooper scooper is perfect for those who suffer from back or knee pain. It is a device that lets you clear up your dog\u2019s waste without having to reach down. For the same reason, it\u2019s also ideal for those who prefer to keep their distance from the mess.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>PPOGOO Pet Pooper Scooper<\/a>.<\/p>\n Next up, toys! It\u2019s vital your new furry friend has a wide range of mentally stimulating toys to play with. The more variety, the more their senses will be engaged, and the less likely they\u2019ll become bored. Different types also provide different benefits for your pup, which we\u2019ll go over below.<\/p>\n Make sure any toys you get are puppy-friendly and won\u2019t pose a choking hazard. Always supervise your pup when interacting with their toys for the first time. You should also wash their toys on a regular basis to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.<\/p>\n Chew toys encourage your pup to exercise their jaw and can help minimize the discomfort of teething<\/a>. Plus, by giving them plenty of chew toys, you\u2019ll be reducing the chances of them chomping on your brand-new slippers (and every other belonging that catches their eye!).<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>KONG Puppy Chew Toy<\/a>.<\/p>\n Interactive toys are those that require your participation, like fetch and tug-of-war toys. For high-energy dogs that need a lot of exercise, interactive toys are a must; they help them release all their pent-up energy.<\/p>\n With that said, be aware that it\u2019s best to play fetch in moderation. According to recent studies<\/a>, the repetitive motion of running, retrieving, and jumping makes them prone to injuries and can also cause joint problems later in their life. Too much fetch can even encourage obsessive behavior<\/a>.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Hyper Pet Tennis Balls<\/a>.<\/p>\n Puzzle toys provide endless entertainment and will keep your pup from getting bored while you\u2019re away. They come in all difficulties. When choosing one for your pup, make sure it\u2019s not too<\/em> difficult for them, otherwise, they\u2019ll likely become frustrated.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Nina Ottosson Puzzle Toys<\/a>.<\/p>\n With their softness and cuddliness, plush toys can be very comforting, and they\u2019re sure to help your pup settle into their new home. Make sure to opt for machine washable plush toys, and avoid any that have a coarse, sharp filling (like straw).<\/p>\n Keep in mind that plush toys aren\u2019t suitable for every pup \u2013 they are not exactly chew-resistant, and their soft texture will encourage some dogs to shred them to smithereens! As we mentioned earlier, be sure to watch how your pup interacts with any toy before leaving it with them unsupervised.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>SmartPetLove Snuggle Puppy Toy.<\/a><\/p>\n Dogs are natural hunters; they love to work for their meals. A food-dispensing toy provides exactly this opportunity. Your pup has to scavenge, shake, lick and move it about to reach the tasty delights hidden inside. Besides satisfying their desire to hunt, food-dispensing toys also help them use up excess energy.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>KONG Wobbler Treat Dispensing Toy<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n Here\u2019s all the things you\u2019ll need to make your new pup\u2019s daily \u201cwalkies\u201d a walk <\/em>in the park.<\/p>\n We recommend getting a standard leash that\u2019s 4 to 5 ft long. This length gives you control over your pup but still lets them explore their surroundings with ease.<\/p>\n We also recommend investing in a traffic leash. A traffic leash is extremely short in length (around 1 to 2 ft), which gives you even greater control and ensures your pup stays close by your side. It can come in handy in all sorts of situations, from walking through high traffic areas to visiting the veterinarian.<\/p>\n When picking out a leash, ensure it\u2019s size appropriate \u2013 it shouldn\u2019t be too bulky. It also needs to be light and not weigh your pup down, so avoid heavy clasps and materials.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>PetSafe Nylon Dog Leash<\/a> and Max and Neo Traffic Leash<\/a>.<\/p>\n Unsurprisingly, you\u2019ll need a collar for your pup as well. We recommend choosing a collar that is made from nylon, as the material is durable, water-resistant, and lightweight.<\/p>\n Since your pup will likely outgrow its collar within a month or so, we also advise investing in an adjustable collar. This type allows you to alter the size as they grow, saving you a lot of money in the long run.<\/p>\n Be aware that dogs with necks larger than their heads, like Greyhounds and Whippets, will need specialized collars (martingale collars) \u2013 they\u2019ll be able to easily slip out of regular collars.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Joytale Reflective Dog Collar<\/a> or Max and Neo Martingale Collar<\/a>.<\/p>\n The next piece of walking equipment you should consider is a harness. A harness is a great training tool for pups that are struggling to learn leash manners. It gives you better control, discourages pulling, and helps to prevent them from getting tangled up in the leash.<\/p>\n A harness is also a must if your pup is brachycephalic or a small breed; it alleviates the pressure off their neck, reducing the risk of any injuries arising.<\/p>\n Top Dog Tips have a helpful guide to determine the right harness size for your pup, which you can check out here<\/a>. Keep in mind that just like there are adjustable collars, plenty of adjustable harnesses are available on the market.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>EcoBark Mesh Dog Harness<\/a>.<\/p>\n It\u2019s time to prepare for muddy paws, stinking breath, and a whole lot of fluffy chaos!<\/p>\n Be aware that not all of the grooming items we cover below need to be bought before your pup\u2019s arrival. In fact, it makes sense to buy many of them after, as you\u2019ll be more familiar with your pup\u2019s individual needs.<\/p>\n Brushing your dog has a myriad of benefits \u2013 it doesn\u2019t just<\/em> keep their coat healthy and tangle-free! These benefits include:<\/p>\n The grooming brush type you should get \u2013 and how often they need to be groomed \u2013 will ultimately depend on their coat type. For example, long-coated pups will need regular de-tangling sessions, as their fur is prone to matting and knots. For the same reason, they\u2019ll also need a brush specifically designed to tackle tangles (like a slicker brush).<\/p>\n For more guidance on choosing the right grooming brush for your pup, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n If your pup has a high maintenance coat, we also recommend investing in a knot-free spray. This will let you deal with the problem areas quickly and as painlessly as possible.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>TropiClean Tangle Remover<\/a>.<\/p>\n Did you know that dogs can hear four <\/em>times better<\/a> than us? Your pup\u2019s ears don\u2019t just give them phenomenal hearing though, they also help them convey emotions and maintain their balance.<\/p>\n Considering how important their ears are, it goes without saying they need to be protected and kept in working order. The best way to do this is to ensure they\u2019re kept clean.<\/p>\n The two main types of ear cleaners are ear wipes and liquid cleaner. Ear wipes are gentler and excel at tackling surface-level wax and debris. In contrast, liquid ear cleaners provide a much more thorough clean; they can reach every crevice of the ear canal, making them perfect for pups prone to ear problems<\/a>.<\/p>\n How often you\u2019ll need to clean their ears can vary. It ultimately depends on factors like their breed<\/a>, lifestyle, and earwax production. With that said, the average dog will usually need its ears cleaned once or twice a month.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Virbac Epi-Otic Advanced Ear Cleaner<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n Most dogs only need to be washed once or twice a month. However, if your pup ends up being the \u201cI must splash in every puddle and roll in everything that\u2019s smelly<\/em>\u201d type, you\u2019ll need the doggy shampoo out on a regular basis.<\/p>\n When choosing a shampoo for your puppy, opt for one which is mild on the skin and has no added fragrances. You should also take into account your pup\u2019s individual needs and skin type. For example, if they have dry skin, pick a shampoo with a moisturizing formula (ingredients like aloe vera).<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>TropiClean Shampoos for Pets<\/a>.<\/p>\n It\u2019s important to brush your pup\u2019s teeth on a regular basis; poor dental hygiene in dogs can bring about a whole host of issues, like periodontal disease<\/a>.<\/p>\n Whichever toothpaste you give your pup, make sure it\u2019s designed for dogs \u2013 never use human toothpaste. Dogs\u2019 mouths are different from ours, and they also tolerate different things; the majority of human toothpaste has xylitol, an ingredient that is extremely toxic to dogs.<\/p>\n There is a wide array of dog toothpastes on the market, each having its own unique formula, taste, and consistency. Since your pup might be picky over the flavor, it\u2019s a good idea to buy a variety at first.<\/p>\n It goes without saying you\u2019ll need a puppy toothbrush as well! There are two main types: classic style (similar to a human toothbrush) and finger style. The latter is essentially a small brush that fits on your finger.<\/p>\n If you have a dog with a long snout, make sure to opt for a long-handled toothbrush. Otherwise, you\u2019ll have a hard time reaching the teeth at the back of their mouth.<\/p>\n WebMD has gathered plenty of veterinarian-approved tips for brushing your dog\u2019s teeth, which you can explore here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Vet\u2019s Best Enzymatic Toothpaste and Toothbrush<\/a>. <\/strong><\/p>\n It\u2019s vital you keep your new companion\u2019s nails well-trimmed throughout their life. The longer the nails are, the greater chance they have of cracking or tearing off, and the harder it\u2019ll be for your pup to walk comfortably.<\/p>\n Make sure to buy nail clippers that are appropriate for the size of your pup\u2019s nails. We also recommend opting for a pair that has a non-slip handle and safety guard.<\/p>\n Keep in mind that you\u2019ll need to first get your pup accustomed to their paws and nails being handled<\/a> before attempting any trimming.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re nervous about trimming your dog\u2019s nails, take them to a professional groomer instead.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>BOSHEL Dog Nail Clippers<\/a>.<\/p>\n Grooming wipes make it easy to keep your dog squeaky clean; they can quickly clear up any dirt, dead skin, or debris trapped in the coat. Grooming wipes also allow you to easily clean skin folds and wrinkles, which will help to keep them free of infection-causing bacteria.<\/p>\n When picking out grooming wipes, make sure they don\u2019t contain parabens and harsh chemicals like strong alcohols (isopropyl<\/a>).<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Pogi\u2019s Grooming Wipes<\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n Unless your pup is a \u201cno-shed\u201d breed<\/a>, they\u2019re going to bless your house with a whole lot of hair \u2013 on the carpet, the furniture, your clothes, everything and everywhere. If you don\u2019t want to risk going to work with fluff-covered pants, you\u2019ll need to invest in a de-shedding tool as well as a vacuum cleaner that is specifically designed to tackle pet hair.<\/p>\n For more tips on how to keep your house hair-free, check out the Real Home\u2019s guide<\/a>.<\/p>\n Our recommendation: <\/strong>Pet Neat Deshedding Tool<\/a> and Hoover MAXLife Pro Pet Vacuum Cleaner<\/a>.<\/p>\n Great! You\u2019ve now got all the necessary items for your pup. Sadly, the work isn\u2019t over yet; from registering with a veterinarian to sorting out pet insurance, you\u2019ve still got a few things left to do before they arrive.<\/p>\n When choosing which veterinarian to register with, make sure to choose one that has plenty of experience working with your dog\u2019s breed. You should also consider:<\/p>\n If you\u2019re struggling to narrow down your options, it\u2019s worth visiting each practice in person before you register. This will give you a much better picture of how they operate and how easy they are to access (travel-wise and parking-wise).<\/p>\n At each practice, you should also ask questions about their care and services, such as if diagnostic tests are done on or off-site and what emergency services they have.<\/p>\n Your breeder or adoption facility will have likely already begun your pup\u2019s vaccinations. However, you will need to continue (or start if your breeder hasn\u2019t) their vaccine schedule yourself. It can be difficult, but you won\u2019t have to navigate through this alone; your veterinarian and online guides<\/a> can help you out.<\/p>\n Your pup needs to be covered against the four main parasites: fleas, ticks, intestinal worms, and heartworms. Puppies are exceptionally vulnerable to parasites, so you should start prevention measures as soon as possible. If parasites are left untreated, they can cause serious health problems.<\/p>\n Make sure to find a treatment that is appropriate for their age and weight. Speak to your veterinarian if you\u2019re unsure which type of treatment to use. Grooming and maintaining a clean environment, like regularly washing your pup\u2019s bedding and food dishes, will also help to prevent parasites.<\/p>\n For more information about parasites, including the symptoms to look out for, click here<\/a>.<\/p>\n Even if you\u2019re convinced you\u2019ll always have enough money to cover their medical expenses, there\u2019s no telling what will happen in the future. If your pup gets sick or injured, the costs can quickly add up \u2013 pet insurance helps lessen the financial burden from these unexpected costs.<\/p>\n Pet insurance can be exceptionally difficult to navigate; there are countless plans on offer. If you\u2019re finding it hard to figure out which one is best for you and your pup, we recommend checking out Forbes\u2019 list<\/a> of the top 13 pet insurance plans.<\/p>\n Once your new puppy arrives, one of the first things you should do is update their microchip with your contact details.<\/p>\n Depending on the microchip database provider, you will have to update the information by post, telephone, or online. If they\u2019ve already been chipped, the adoption clinic or your breeder should provide you with all the details you need to know, including the provider and the microchip\u2019s number. Otherwise, you can contact your veterinarian for information on getting your puppy microchipped.<\/p>\n A dog trainer can help you set up an effective training plan and also help with any bad habits your pup picks up throughout their life. Make sure you choose a qualified trainer that uses positive reinforcement<\/a> methods and has experience working with your dog\u2019s breed.<\/p>\n Always meet them in person first before committing; they should be approachable, friendly, and easy to communicate with. You should also supervise a session to get a feel for their training approach. An easy way to see if they\u2019ll be a good fit is to ask who their role models in the industry are; avoid trainers whose role models don\u2019t use positive reinforcement. If you aren\u2019t comfortable with their methods or notice any red flags, look elsewhere.<\/p>\n Red flags include:<\/p>\n Many dog trainers also run group puppy classes. Besides helping with training, these sessions offer fantastic socialization experiences for your pup; they will get to interact with all kinds of dogs and people. Research has shown<\/a> that weekly puppy training classes can even reduce stress, fear, and aggression.<\/p>\n If your dog trainer does not offer puppy classes, ask your veterinarian for recommendations, or check out your local humane society, they often host a variety of training classes.<\/p>\n Before you sign your pup up for a class, make sure to watch a session first. The puppies (and their owners) should look happy and at ease. The class shouldn\u2019t be crowded, and the area should be well-kept and clean. As always, avoid puppy classes that use punishment-based training methods.<\/p>\n Keep in mind that all reputable classes will require pups to be up to date with vaccinations before being allowed to enroll. As such, you should also avoid any classes that don\u2019t ask for vaccination history.<\/p>\n You\u2019ll undoubtedly need to hire a pet sitter at some stage in your dog\u2019s life, so it\u2019s a good idea to have a few contacts on hand.<\/p>\n When looking for pet sitters, make sure to ask about their experience and what types of dogs they\u2019ve looked after in the past. You should also ask for references and find out how they will communicate with you and what their service involves.<\/p>\n A professional groomer will help keep your dog\u2019s coat muck-free and styled appropriately. Not all dogs need a professional groomer, but if your pup has a high-maintenance coat \u2013 or you simply don\u2019t trust your own grooming capabilities \u2013 you\u2019ll need one on speed dial.<\/p>\n Make sure to find a groomer that has plenty of experience with your pup\u2019s breed and size.<\/p>\n Having a training and socialization schedule<\/a> ready from the get-go will ensure you can better prepare yourself and start with no delay. It\u2019s important to begin sooner rather than later; the first 16 weeks are the critical socialization period<\/a> of a dog\u2019s life, where they are more receptive to new things.<\/p>\n Starting their training or socialization too late could potentially lead to behavioral issues in adulthood, which will be difficult to tackle and manage. No new puppy checklist would be complete without some handy tips and tricks on how to puppy-proof your house!<\/p>\n Bringing your new puppy home for the first time can be exceptionally stressful and make you feel at a loss; what\u2019s the best way to welcome them? Where should they sleep? What should you teach them first? But don\u2019t worry \u2013 we won\u2019t leave you in the dark. Here, we\u2019ll answer the common questions new puppy owners have.<\/p>\n Before you collect your new puppy, make sure you\u2019ve puppy-proofed the house<\/a>.<\/p>\n When picking them up, give them ample time to sniff you and play with you; this will help them become further accustomed to your scent and presence. We talked about this in our new puppy checklist above<\/a>, but don\u2019t forget to also bring a blanket to rub over their littermates.<\/p>\n When taking your pup home in your car, put them in a secure travel kennel with the blanket and a couple of puppy-friendly treats. Make sure to also talk to them throughout the journey, as this will help to reassure them and lessen their anxiety.<\/p>\n Once you arrive home, tell family members to be calm and quiet; it can be tempting (especially for kids) to drown a new pup in lots of hugs and attention, but this will be very overwhelming for them!<\/p>\n Ideally, your pup should sleep in your bedroom at first. Your company will help them to feel less lonely and more at ease. It also ensures you can easily hear them throughout the night \u2013 they will whine if they need to relieve themselves.<\/p>\n Keep in mind that you should ignore your new pup if they\u2019re only whining to gain your attention. Although it can be tempting to cuddle and soothe them every time they cry for you during the night, it can actually do more harm than good. We go over this in greater detail in our dedicated first night with puppy guide<\/a>. In the guide, we also share more tips on how to make your pup\u2019s first night as stress-free as possible.<\/p>\n Here we\u2019ll briefly cover some of the key things you should do in the first week with your new puppy.<\/p>\n We\u2019ve included links to helpful resources throughout our new puppy checklist, but below we\u2019ve gathered a few more which we feel will help you prepare for your new pup\u2019s arrival.<\/p>\n Looking after a new puppy can be a nerve-wracking challenge, and at times you might doubt yourself and wonder if you\u2019re truly equipped for dog ownership. But rest assured that with dedication, commitment, and preparation, you\u2019ll definitely be the best owner you can be for your new pup.<\/p>\n Above, we\u2019ve made sure our new puppy checklist covers everything you need to know and own to give your pup the best start in life.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Becoming a pup parent is an exciting time, and you\u2019re undoubtedly already thinking about how much fun and joy your new pooch is going to bring to your home. While your excitement is well-founded, it\u2019s important to not forget that looking after a puppy is a heck of a challenge and a whole lot of […]<\/p>\nBasics<\/h3>\n
Appropriate Bedding<\/h4>\n
Food and Water Bowls<\/h4>\n
Appropriate Food<\/h4>\n
Crate<\/h4>\n
ID Tag<\/h4>\n
Treats<\/h4>\n
\n<\/a><\/p>\nBlanket<\/h4>\n
Clicker<\/h4>\n
Puppy Gates or Playpen<\/h4>\n
Toiletry<\/h3>\n
![\"puppy](\"https:\/\/usserviceanimals.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/puppy-on-pee-pad.jpg\")
<\/p>\nPee Pads<\/h4>\n
Stain and Odor Remover<\/h4>\n
Waste Bags<\/h4>\n
Pooper Scooper<\/h4>\n
Toys<\/h3>\n
![\"puppy](\"https:\/\/usserviceanimals.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/puppy-chewing-toy.jpg\")
<\/p>\nChew Toys<\/h4>\n
Interactive Toys<\/h4>\n
Puzzle Toys<\/h4>\n
Plush Toys<\/h4>\n
Food-Dispensing Toys<\/h4>\n
Walking Equipment<\/h3>\n
![\"puppy](\"https:\/\/usserviceanimals.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/puppy-walking-on-leash.jpg\")
<\/p>\nLeash<\/h4>\n
Collar<\/h4>\n
Harness<\/h4>\n
Grooming<\/h3>\n
![\"puppy](\"https:\/\/usserviceanimals.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/puppy-being-washed.jpg\")
<\/p>\nGrooming Brush<\/h4>\n
\n
Knot-Free Spray<\/h4>\n
Ear Cleaner<\/h4>\n
Puppy Shampoo<\/h4>\n
Toothpaste<\/h4>\n
Toothbrush<\/h4>\n
Nail Clipper<\/h4>\n
Grooming Wipes<\/h4>\n
Deshedding Tool and Pet Vacuum Cleaner<\/h4>\n
New Puppy Checklist: Responsibilities<\/h2>\n
![\"puppy](\"https:\/\/usserviceanimals.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/puppy-being-vaccinated.jpg\")
<\/p>\nRegister With Veterinarian<\/h3>\n
\n
Vaccinations<\/h3>\n
Parasite Prevention<\/h3>\n
Pet Insurance<\/h3>\n
Update Microchip<\/h3>\n
Dog Trainer<\/h3>\n
\n
Puppy Classes<\/h3>\n
Pet Sitter<\/h3>\n
Professional Groomer<\/h3>\n
Training and Socialization Schedule<\/h3>\n
\n<\/a><\/p>\nPuppy-proofing the House<\/h2>\n
![\"puppy](\"https:\/\/usserviceanimals.org\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/09\/puppy-walking-in-clean-home.jpg\")
<\/p>\n\n
New Puppy Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n
What To Do When You Bring a New Puppy Home?<\/h3>\n
Where Should a Puppy Sleep the First Night?<\/h2>\n
What Should I Do in the First Week?<\/h3>\n
\n
Handy Resources<\/h2>\n
\n
Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n