Is a New Puppy Coming Home For the Holidays? Check This List Twice, First!

Nothing quite compares to the feeling of bringing home a floppy-eared, big playful-pawed puppy! Being prepared for your furry new addition to the family can really help the transition go much more smoothly.

Our new-puppy checklist is great guide to the few simple things you should buy before you bring your puppy home. Keep this list close by as you shop online, or print it out and check it twice at the pet store.

Puppy essentials for sleeping, cuddling, and feeling safe when you’re away:

• Crate & crate liner
• Bed
• Blanket
• A plush toy for snuggling

Puppy essentials for potty training:

• Treats you KNOW your new pup loves to eat for positive reinforcement
• Potty training pads
• Potty training bells (signals when they have to go)
• A chemical-free enzyme cleanser

Puppy essentials for playing:

• Play pen
• Puppy-size puzzle toy (These are great for stuffing with treats!)
• BPA-free plastic ball

Puppy essentials for feeding and snacking:

• Bowls
• A long-term chew for teething, like our bully sticks
• Treats for training that are DIFFERENT than those used for potty
• Age- and size- appropriate puppy food
• Measuring cup to ensure your pup gets the right amount of food--not too much and not too little!

Puppy essentials for training, walking, and traveling:

• Collar
• Harness
• Leash
• Seatbelt restraint (for use with harness)

We’ve got lots of information to help you along the way! While this isn’t an extensive list, it’s the right one for getting the basics down pat. With a few tools, the right information, and a little luck, you can feel confident about becoming new puppy parents in no time.

Related Resources

You might also like:

• Training your new puppy
• How to avoid separation anxiety
• 5 tips for mastering dog ownership