New Puppy Essentials
Our puppy Eileen! I can’t believe she’s almost 3 now!!
Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting and happy experience, filled with love, cuddles, and a few challenges of course! It’s a lot like bringing home a newborn! :) To make sure your sweet new puppy has everything they need to thrive, it’s important to be well-prepared. Here’s a list of the essentials you’ll need for your new puppy. You can find the whole list of products mentioned here.
# 1. Comfortable Sleeping Area
Is there anything cuter than a sleeping puppy? A comfortable bed is essential for giving your pup a sense of security and a place to retreat for naps and nighttime sleep. Make sure the bed is the right size for them so they feel snug but not cramped.
# 2. High-Quality Puppy Food
The right food is crucial during the early stages of your puppy’s life. It’s important to choose a high-quality puppy food that meets all their nutritional needs. I recommend asking your vet for recommendations based on your puppy’s breed, size, and health requirements. Here is a brand we love though. Also, gotta have those classic Milkbone Treats!
Don’t forget to have food and water bowls that are easy to clean and appropriately sized for your pup. I like this bowl set because it stays put and is waterproof! If you’re looking for a raised bow set, the ComeSoon Elevated Dog Bowl set is a good choice.
# 3. Collar, Leash, and ID Tag
A well-fitting collar and leash are essential for walks and training. Make sure the collar is not too tight or too loose – you should be able to slip two fingers between the collar and your puppy’s neck. An ID tag with your contact information is crucial in case your puppy gets lost!
#4. Toys and Chews
Puppies are playful and curious, and they need toys to keep them entertained and help with teething. It’s nice to have a variety of toys, including chew toys, squeaky toys, and puzzle toys, to keep your puppy engaged and mentally stimulated. Chew toys are particularly important for teething puppies to help soothe their gums. This Kong Chewer is a classic! Another one we like is the Nylabone Puppy Chew. If you have a teething baby at home, beware, this looks exactly like one of their toys!
#5. Training Items
Training your puppy is essential! It will give your puppy an awesome foundation for later in life. Basic training supplies include:
- Training treats: Small, tasty treats for rewarding good behavior.
- Clicker: Useful for clicker training, which reinforces positive behavior.
- Puppy pads: For house training, especially if your puppy is not yet ready to go outside.
-Training book- This can be helpful reading if you’re the highlighting/taking notes person like me.
#6. Grooming Supplies
Regular grooming helps keep your puppy clean and healthy. Depending on your puppy’s breed, you may need:
- Brush and comb: To keep their coat tangle-free and reduce shedding. Especially that second part!
- Shampoo: A gentle puppy shampoo for bath time. Trust me, they’ll need this!
-- Ear cleaner: To prevent ear infections.
#7. Health and Safety Items
Maintaining your puppy’s health is super important! Essential health and safety items include:
- Veterinary care: Find a trusted vet and schedule a check-up to make sure your puppy is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Flea and tick prevention: Protect your puppy from parasites with vet-recommended products.
- Puppy-proofing supplies: Safety gates were really helpful for me! We have a 2 story house and it was nice to be able to contain the beast a little bit!
#8. Socialization Opportunities
Socialization is critical for your puppy’s development. Expose your puppy to various environments, people, and other animals to help them become well-adjusted. Puppy classes and playdates can be excellent ways to socialize your new pet. We took our dog to a training class at our local pet store.
#9. Patience and Love
While not something you can buy on Amazon, patience and love are the most important essentials. Puppies are full of energy and curiosity, and they require time, attention, and consistent training. Building a bond with your new puppy through positive reinforcement and affection will create a strong, lifelong relationship. There were definitely a few nights that were more frustrating than others, but in the end it was so worth it to have a lifelong buddy!
Bringing a new puppy into your home is a rewarding experience that also comes with a lot of responsibilities. By preparing with these essentials, you’ll ensure your puppy has everything they need to grow into a happy, healthy, and well-behaved dog. Enjoy every moment of this special journey with your new furry friend!
I also made a checklist for you to make sure you have everything you need! Download it here :)
