Congratulations on the arrival of your new puppy! Or perhaps you are considering getting yourself a little pup, and you can barely contain your excitement.
With first-time dog owners, it could be a daunting task to know what you need for your new puppy. It is difficult to get a full picture of all the items they will need for your puppy at different stages of their lives, whether it is something as essential as pee pads or dog leashes, or something less expected but equally crucial like a pet hair vacuum or some handy dog wipes.
That’s why we have come up with this EPIC puppy checklist guide for you!
From our experience in raising puppies, and speaking with experienced dog owners and veterinarians, these are the list of items that you should buy for your new puppy.
In the sections below, we will highlight the most important items you need to get as a puppy owner as well as some of our top recommendations!
1. Wireless Dog Fence
We recommend: PetSafe Stay And Play Wireless Electric Dog Fence
This is another must-have for new puppy owners with an outdoor space. This allows you to start early training to teach the puppy the limits past which they are not allowed. Given their age, it is best to start this training with constant monitoring. As they grow older and used to the restriction, you can give them their space and independence.
2. Dog Harness
We recommend: Ruffwear Front Range Dog Harness
A dog harness is a great way to replace or complement collars especially when leash training your puppy. They are often more comfortable and bear a lower risk of choking especially with no-choke design harnesses.
As with collars and leashes, the type of material used matters a lot with polyester and nylon being the best. Comfort features like padding and the thickness of the pads also set good harnesses apart from regular ones. Finally, consider visibility features in terms of reflective strips and bright colors as puppies very easily get lost.
3. Multivitamin Supplements
We recommend: Zesty Paws Multifunctional Supplements
In addition to ensuring your dog is on a healthy diet, it is crucial that you supplement micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. This is because even with the healthiest diets, essential micros are usually absent or not in adequate amounts for their purposes in the dog’s body.
Multivitamins come in handy allowing you to fully support your dog’s systems for all-rounded health and wellness.
Vitamin E helps with coat health, vitamin C improves immunity, while Vitamin D helps with bone health. Speaking of bone health, if your puppy’s breed is prone to musculoskeletal issues, supplement their diet with bone-friendly micronutrients and compounds like chondroitin, MSM, and glucosamine.
4. Dog Bowl
We recommend: Patimate Stainless Steel No-Spill dog bowl
You also need to invest in a good food bowl as a part of your essential purchases for your new dog. Bowls come in all shapes and sized and all types of materials. For a puppy, ceramic or stainless steel dog bowls are the best options in terms of the dog’s safety from food contamination.
Stainless steel in particular stands out as the best option in terms of durability. These bowls will withstand whatever your overexcited pooch has to offer from chewing to toppling over.
5. Portable Water Bottle
We recommend: MalsiPree dog water bottle
Water bowls often come attached to the food bowl so you will rarely have to buy them separately. However, portable water bowls are a total life changer especially if you are an outdoorsy person and would like to bring your dog along with you on your fun escapades.
You could go for the simple bottle and collapsible bowl design which is often the cheapest of all the options. You could also go for a more modern design where the cap is modified to also serve as the feeding bowl. These may be pricier but they are more convenient especially when packing economically.
6. Puppy Crate
We recommend: Midwest Homes for Pets dog crate
A dog crate is invaluable for you as a new puppy parent. While it may not be a do-or-die essential, it is one of those purchases that makes all the difference especially when it comes to helping your dog settle into their new home.
Contrary to popular beliefs, dog crates are not cruel. In fact, when used right, they can be a source of comfort and control for a dog that is having a hard time settling in. The crates also come in handy when it comes to obedience training and housebreaking the dog.
7. Puppy Pee Pads
We recommend: Glad for Pets Activated Carbon Puppy Training Pads
This is especially crucial if you just got yourself a young puppy that hasn’t been potty trained. Accidents during the first few days or even weeks are pretty much inevitable. However, pee pads make life easier for you in a lot of ways.
They can be used together with crates allowing you to keep the dog’s area as clean as possible. They are also sometimes combined with indoor puppy potties for easier cleanup.
When shopping for pee pads, you have the option of either going for the scented or unscented options. It is entirely up to you based on preferences as even the non-scented options often offer great odor control if you go for a high quality product.
8. Poop Bags
We recommend: Moneygreen dog poop bag
Poop bags are mostly important if you are adopting an older, potty-trained dog. In this case, your only task will be to establish a potty break routine. Your trusty poop bags here just allow you to conveniently get rid of the mess.
More often than not, poop bags are made of leak-proof materials like plastic. However, there are more and more eco-friendly alternatives available today made from biodegradable material.
9. Dog Leash
We recommend: Baapet Dog leash
Leash training is a great way to assert control especially over dogs with dominant personalities or firecrackers that may be a little harder to control. When shopping for your puppy, there are 2 key considerations to make.
The first is the length of the collar. With most puppies, a shorter leash of 4 feet or less would be ideal. These offer you better control over the often over-excited pups that pull a lot at first. You could also go for longer leashes including the standard 5 to 6 feet options that you can use all the way into the dog’s adult years.
The second key factor is the material. You can never really go wrong with polyester. It is not only durable but also as weather resistant as it gets with leashes. You could also go for leather leashes which are great for aesthetics but not always durable especially in humid weather.
10. Adjustable Dog Collar
We recommend: QQpets Adjustable Personalized dog collar
Dog collars serve both an aesthetic and functional purpose. When it comes to the aesthetics, consider going for something colorful or with a fun pattern. This not only looks good but may also help you spot your pooch from a distance.
When it comes to functionality, on the other hand, adjustability is the most important feature to consider. The thickness of the collar also matters a lot in which case 1.5 to 2 cm should be safe and comfortable for your puppy.
11. Anti-Chew Spray
We recommend: Bodhi Dog 2 in 1 No Chew Spray
Puppies going through their teething phase will chew at pretty much anything that they can get their little teeth on. This will be cute at first but it soon grows frustrating when they start chewing on valuable items.
Chew spray discourages them from chewing on items that are potentially valuable. The sprays are often formulated using ingredients that the dog finds repulsive. It could be a blend of herbs, natural fragrances, or even alcohol-based formulations.
12. Puppy Shampoo
We recommend: Honeydew Natural Dog Shampoo with Lavender and Colloidal Oatmeal
A good dog shampoo is essential in every dog owner’s grooming kit. Go for something with natural ingredients and a tear-free formula especially for the younger doggies.
While these natural, high quality options may be a bit more expensive, they are more than worth it considering you only wash the dog once every month or two.
13. Flea Comb
We recommend: Coastal Safari Dog Flea Comb
Puppies are prone to flea infestations and often get hit hard by the parasites. A good flea comb comes in very handy in these cases allowing you to pick out not only the adult parasites but the eggs they lay within the coat and the hatched larvae.
When shopping for a flea comb, make sure to go for a comb with water-resistant bristles for the sake of durability.
14. Dental Water Additive
We recommend: Oxyfresh Premium Pet Dental Care water dental additive
Getting your dog to agree to have their teeth brushed is not always easy. However, dental hygiene is a crucial aspect of good care practices when raising a puppy. That is where dental water additives come in handy.
Natural ingredients like peppermint and other herbs take care of the bad breath and keep some of the germs responsible for cavities and other dental issues at bay.
15. Doggy Wet Wipes
We recommend: Earth Rated Plant-based dog wipes
Most dogs only need baths every 6 to 8 weeks. However, this does not mean that you leave your dog reduced to a smelly pile full of dirt patches and eye boogers until their next bath. Doggy wet wipes are a great compromise allowing you to conveniently offer grooming touch-ups before their next shower session.
16. Puppy Playpen
We recommend: North States Mypet Petyard
Play time is a huge deal especially for puppies. This allows them to play as much as they want without putting themselves at harm or wreaking havoc in your home. They also come in very handy for dog owners with a busy schedule. Just pop your pooch into the playpen and you can get some work done or take care of chores without the doggy getting in the way.
17. Puppy Chew Toys
We recommend: Legend Sandy 12 toy pack
Play time is a huge part of raising a happy and healthy pup. They have a lot of energy and need a productive way to work it all out which is why toys are a crucial part of preparing for your pooch.
Plush toys in particular are not only super cute but also great for tactile stimulation with their soft texture. They are also easy to take care of especially if you find a machine-washable option.
18. Dog Toy Basket
We recommend: Bone Dry Collapsible Pet Storage Bin
There is nothing as annoying as having to step over doggy toys and accessories all over your home. A toy basket helps you to keep things organized and away when they are not needed. This could also be a great chance to train your dog by having them put away their own toys.
When shopping for a toy basket, you could either go for the collapsible options which are easy to put away when not in use. You could also go for something with a bit more structure which is perfect if you have more space to work with.
You also have the option of going for an alternative with a lid or one without. Here, it is all a matter of personal preference.
19. Puppy Odor & Stain Remover
We recommend: Rocco and Roxie Stain and Odor Remover
As we mentioned earlier, potty accidents are more or less inevitable when raising a dog. That is why enzymatic cleaners are so important. They get rid not only of the visible part of the stain but also of any traces of the odor that the dog may use to mark and return to the spot.
20. Paper Towels
We recommend: 365 Everyday Value Paper Towels
Puppies are always getting up to some sort of trouble or other. Maybe they snuck into the kitchen and spilled something all over the floors. It could be a potty accident they had on your living room corner.
Paper towels are super useful for quick cleanup in such cases. You may not necessarily use them all the time but they are definitely convenient to have around for those few accidents.
21. Dog Accessory Hooks
We recommend: Ashes to Beauty 3 Dog Tails Key Holder
You may not notice it at first but with time, your doggy accessories will increase and you will need somewhere to place them for easy access. A hook rack is the way to go allowing you to store everything from harnesses and leashes to your bag of poop bags.
While any regular, classic key rack will work, it is always nice to make a statement with an alternative that is specially designed to reflect your love for your furry best friend.
22. Pet Hair Vacuum
We recommend: Bissell Cleanview Pet Upright Vacuum
This is not a must-have but it will definitely make your life easier. Regular vacuum cleaners do not always get fur and dander from surfaces in your home. This not only leaves you with an aesthetic mess but may also lead to odors as well as triggering allergies.
A good pet vacuum will have modes and attachments specially designed to get rid of dander and fur from all surfaces in your home.
23. Dog Name Tag
We recommend: Go Tags Stainless Steel Pet ID
If you are not sure you will be able to completely monitor your new doggy’s whereabouts at all times, it helps to invest in dog tags with their name and your address or other contact information. That way, if they manage to get loose and get lost they can easily be traced back to you.
24. Dog Bed
We recommend: Furhaven Plush Orthopedic Sofa and Dog Bed
Dogs are pretty low maintenance when it comes to comfort and will literally fall asleep anywhere as long as it is warm and dry. However, if you want to give them a special treat or if your pooch is prone to musculoskeletal issues, a dog bed is a great investment.
An orthopedic, memory foam bed is the height of comfort and luxury for your puppy and ensures that they actually look forward to bedtime.
25. Automatic Food Dispenser
We recommend: Wopet Automatic Pet Feeder
This would come in very handy for dog owners who are away from the house a lot. If you have a dog breed known for its independence, you can leave them for hours as you go to work or run quick errands. You just have to ensure they are properly fed and watered while you are away.
For the best results with these systems, go for a model that allows programming for portion control and timing. You could also go for gravity-based automatic dispensers. These may not offer portion control as they refill every time the dog eats but they are more affordable and easier to operate in the long run.
26. Puppy Gate
We recommend: Regalo Pet and Baby Gate
This is important for future puppy parents with homes that have staircases. Puppies are prone to accidents on these stairs that could cause them serious bodily harm. A dog gate is useful in this case for their safety. You could also use these gates to keep the dog out of spaces you want to restrict access to.
27. Dog Travel Crate
We recommend: Petmate 2 door crate
Some adoption shelters require or at the very least strongly recommend that you bring a hard dog crate when collecting your puppy for the first time. These offer reliable security when transporting the often disoriented and jittery pup. They are also required by some airlines if you intend on traveling with your pooch by air.
28. Teething Dog Treats
We recommend: N-Bone Puppy Teething Treats
Chew treats are not always meant to be gobbled down in one bite. Teething treats give your puppy something to gnaw on as they go through the discomfort of tooth eruption. For young pups, go for something with a bit more give to the bite as their jaws are not strong enough to handle very hard chew toys.
29. Grooming Glove
We recommend: Delomo Pet Grooming Glove
A lot of the time, puppies have short coats that do not shed very heavily. However, as their breed-specific adult coat grows in, you will need to get rid of any loose fur to keep the coats beautiful and your home clean.
Grooming mitts offer the perfect balance between effective deshedding and easy of use. For the particularly fussy pup, you can calm them down by petting and rubbing them while simultaneously taking care of the grooming.
30. Dematting Brush
We recommend: Hertzko Self Cleaning Slicker Brush
Puppies are also prone to coat matting. They are very active and often get a lot of moisture and dirt on themselves especially outdoors. A dematting brush will help you detangle any knotted fur before it turns into a bigger mess. This comes in very handy with dog breeds that have long coats.
31. Squeaky Toy
We recommend: Vanfine Squeaky Dog Toy
Admittedly, squeaky toys aren’t the best to listen to as a dog owner. However, puppies go crazy for the auditory stimulation they get from biting down on the toys. When shopping for these toys, get one with high quality and non-toxic material whether it is rubber or silicone.
Review sections are a great place to check for information on what you can expect from the specific toy that you settle for.
32. Bordem Buster Puzzle Game
We recommend: Nina Ottosson Interactive Dog Puzzle
Puppies are naturally very curious and need a lot of mental engagement. A puzzle is a great way to fine tune their problem-solving skills. It also gives them something fun and challenging to focus on instead of destructiveness which comes more naturally to them.
33. Fetch Ball
We recommend: Gnawsome Spiky Squeaker Ball
Fetch is a classic game and way to bond with a new puppy. They love nothing more than chasing after moving objects and also enjoy the excuse to chew on the ball without getting reprimanded.
Shopping for the perfect fetch ball is all about choosing the right material. You need something that is strong enough to handle the chewing on while also being bouncy to make the game more fun.
It also helps to have some texture whether it is spikes for the additional dental benefits or grooves for tactile stimulation of the puppy.
34. Dog Carrier Backpack
We recommend: PetAmi Premium Pet Carrier
For the outdoorsy dog owner, getting a new puppy means you now have someone to tag along on all your outdoor adventures. A good carrier should have plenty of ventilation to keep the pooch nice and comfortable especially during hot weather.
The carrier should also offer plenty of visibility for the puppy. Remember that during this stage, dogs are very curious about their environment. Having a way to take it all in definitely makes them easier to go out with.
Finally, ensure that you choose the right size so your pooch isn’t crammed into a tiny, uncomfortable space.
35. Dog Car Barriers
We recommend: Dykeson Car Net Barrier
Another handy accessory to have as a new puppy owner is a car barrier. These will keep the pooch safely in the back seat which is important given how jumpy pups can be. The most important consideration here is the material in order to ensure durability. Here, you can’t go wrong with polyester or nylon.
36. Dog Nail Clipper
We recommend: Boshel Dog Nail Clippers
You can and should start clipping your puppy’s nails as soon as the pooch is comfortable and all settled in. It is an essential part of their grooming not only for their own safety but also for the sake of your furniture.
37. Dog-Friendly Toothpaste
We recommend: Vet’s Best Enzymatic Dog Toothpaste
Puppies are very open to new things and are the best to train to get used to having their teeth routinely brushed. For this, you will need dog-friendly toothpaste. It is crucial that you go for a specially-formulated brand as most puppies will swallow most of the toothpaste. Also avoid harsh pastes that the puppy will definitely reject.
38. Puppy Toothbrush
We recommend: PenVinoo Pet Toothbrush Set
Puppies may be a bit more open to tooth brushing but they still need some time to adjust. It is best to start with finger brushes that offer you more control. As the dog gets more comfortable and as their teeth grow to a point where a bite might actually hurt, you can graduate to classic puppy toothbrushes with handles.
39. Paw Cleaner
We recommend: Dexas Mudbuster Portable Paw Cleaner
This is one of those items you may not realize you needed until you actually have it and you see how much of an impact it makes. Puppies that spend a lot of time outdoors will have very dirty paws. If you don’t want dirty paw prints all over your floors, carpets, and furniture, a paw cleaner is a great investment.
Portable options are the best as you can take them on your outdoor adventures whether it is a day hike or camping.
40. Dog Door
We recommend: Petsafe Plastic Doggy Door
Doggy doors are an investment you will eventually have to make as a new dog owner especially if you happen to have your own private outdoor space. Getting one of these allows your dog to learn some independence by letting themselves out or in at will.
The doggy doors come in many different styles. For a puppy, the classic flap is the best way to go. It is easy for them to figure out and use at will. However, if you are willing to take the time to teach them, you could also go for slide doggy doors that require collar keys.
41. Slow Feeder Bowl
We recommend: Outward Hound Slow Feeder Bowl
Puppies can be a little overexcited during meal times. This could lead to them eating too much too fast. With some dog breeds, this results in stomach discomfort with everything from bloating to indigestion. A slow feeder is a great way to help your puppy calm down and actually enjoy their meal.
42. Soft Chew Puppy Treats
We recommend: Hills Dog Treats Soft Savories
Doggy treats come in handy in a lot of ways when raising a puppy. The most obvious application is during training where they serve as rewards for positive reinforcement. Treats are also a great way to keep very active doggies going before their next meals.
Soft chews are awesome as they offer a quick and convenient way to reward your pooch and move on to the next skill or other aspects of your training.
43. Puppy Food
We recommend: Purina ONE SmartBlend Natural Puppy Dog Food
When it comes to puppy food, you need to focus on getting a brand that uses high quality ingredients, with no fillers and as few chemical additives as possible if any at all. This is because puppies tend to have delicate digestive systems especially when being weaned off breast milk.
The dog food also needs to have a healthy balance of nutrients. Puppies need a high protein diet to support their growth and development as well as plenty of carbs to keep up with their energy needs. Finally, ensure that you pick a dog food brand that focuses on flavor as pups can be a bit picky sometimes.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know all that you need as well as some of the best options on the market of each, you can now start your shopping at ease. The important thing is to understand your dog and its needs so that you know what to settle on. So use all this information we have provided and get right to it. These items will definitely make your new puppy parenthood journey a lot easier.
Related Questions
Where Should Your Puppy Sleep The First Night? Your puppy should spend their first night in the space you have specifically designated as their sleeping spot. This allows them to get used to the new arrangements a lot faster. However, if you notice that the puppy is very distressed or if they are very young, it is best to have them sleep on your bed or in the same room with you.
What Is The First Thing You Should Train Your Puppy? House training should be the first aspect of training that you focus on when you get your new puppy. This includes potty training as well as teaching them where they are and are not allowed to go. You could also introduce basic obedience commands including “sit”, “stay”, “come here”, and responding to their name.
Should I Leave My Puppy To Cry At Night? It might be a bit hard at first but you might have to let your puppy cry at night. More often than not, they are doing it as a result of anxiety from being alone and away from their favorite humans. Just do your best to ensure that they have a comfortable place to sleep. If the crying persists, investigate for other issues including health problems.
