16 Jul 2024
The Essential ‘What to Buy for a Puppy’ Checklist!
There's a lot to do when you're preparing to bring your new puppy home for the first time – and what better way to make sure you’ve got everything than with a what to buy for a puppy checklist!
Rather than letting this exciting time get overshadowed with worry, you can use our checklist on what to buy for a puppy to make sure you’re fully prepared.
We’ve included everything in this list, from the food, toys, and dog bedding to pet insurance and puppy training essentials, so you can tick everything off as you go!
| What to Buy for a Puppy Checklist |
|
What to Do Before You Pick Up Your Puppy
Image by Evgeniya Shihaleeva from Getty Images via Canva.com
Although a lot of the excitement of a new puppy starts when you go to pick them up and bring them to their forever home, there are some important things you need to do before you set off to get them to keep them healthy and happy.
Here are some important things to do to prepare for your puppy before you go and get them...
| To Do | |
| Register with a veterinarian |
|
| Start pet insurance (optional but recommended) |
|
| Get your puppy microchipped |
|
| Puppy-proof your home |
|
| Buy essential supplies |
|
| Establish a training plan with family members |
|
| Make a plan for times you'll be away from home |
|
First Day Essentials: Most Important Things to Buy a Puppy
The first day you bring home your new puppy is an exciting and nerve-wracking time for both you and your four-legged friend.
To ensure a smooth transition, make sure you have the following essentials ready:
#1 Puppy Food & Water Bowls
Your puppy is going to need to have access to food and water in your home, so having appropriately sized water and food bowls is a must. You'll also need some age-appropriate dog food on hand for your new arrival.
It's best to consult your vet, the rescue, or the breeder you're getting your pup from to find out what sort of food they're used to and what would be best for them going forward.
Image by Chevanon Photography from Pexels via Canva.com
#2 A Safe Crate
Although you're likely to bring your puppy home wrapped in a blanket (or our Bronte Ranger Throw!) on your lap, it's important they have a crate to call their own when they get home.
Coming into your home will be exciting for your new pup but also overwhelming; allowing them a safe space where they can retreat will make the process smoother for them.
We recommend placing your puppy in its prepared crate in the blanket it came home in as soon as you get back. Then, leave it to settle in and explore your home on its own terms.
You can put a piece of your clothing in there to get them used to you if you like.
#3 A Comfy Bed
A comfortable bed is crucial for your puppy's rest and recovery as they adjust to their new surroundings. It provides them with a sense of security and a designated spot to sleep, aiding in their overall health and well-being.
To keep things simple for your pooch, their crate should ideally be their bed. At Bronte Glen, we have a wide selection of crate bedding that's perfect for creating a comfortable and cosy environment for your new family member to snooze, relax, and recharge.
Our crate bed range, including our Traditional Vet Bedding, is designed to fit into their crate perfectly and be easily cleaned. This helps keep their environment hygienic and comfortable, even after inevitable accidents.
If you want a bed outside the crate, our range of Trojan beds is ideal for puppies who are avid chewers, determined diggers, or might be prone to accidents.
The highly durable nylon cover is removable for easy washing and is strong enough to withstand puppy enthusiasm.
#4 Lead & Harness
Although your pup is unlikely to go for walks until it has received all its vaccines, if you have a garden or need to take it out to go to the toilet, it's best to put it on a lead.
This not only keeps it safe but also gets it used to being on a lead and harness from the start.
We recommend using a harness for your puppy. It's better for their neck and allows you more control over their excitable pulling.
#5 Poop Bags & Puppy Pads
Having poop bags and puppy pads ready for your puppy's arrival is essential for a clean and hygienic environment.
Puppies are inevitably going to have accidents in your house, especially during the first few days, so it's a good idea to have a pack of puppy pads on hand ready.
Even with the puppy pads at home, you'll need to clean up your dog's poop in the house and in your garden or designated outdoor potty area.
Image by pg_cata from Getty Images via Canva.com
#6 Legal Requirements
Before bringing your puppy home, you should consider several legal requirements and recommendations for your dog's safety and your own peace of mind.
First, you should microchip your puppy. A microchip is a tiny device placed under the skin with a unique ID number linked to your contact details. If your puppy gets lost, a microchip can help reunite you.
Many rescue centres or breeders may have already done this, but if not, your vet can handle it (this is a legal requirement now).
In the UK, according to The Control of Dogs Order 1992, a dog must also wear a collar and ID tag with your contact information.
The tag should include your name, phone number, and address to help you get reunited if your pooch wanders off or gets lost.
|
It's not recommended to put your puppy's name on their tag, as this can potentially make it easier for dog thieves to pass the dog off as their own. |
First Month Puppy Essentials to Buy
Beyond that exciting first day, there are certain supplies you'll need to get you through the first month with your puppy.
Here are our top first-month puppy essentials to help you and your new arrival bond and settle into your new lives together:
#7 Puppy-Proofing Equipment
Investing in puppy-proofing equipment is crucial to ensure your home is safe from your new pup's curious nature.
Items like puppy gates can prevent them from accessing dangerous areas, while cord protectors and cabinet locks keep hazardous items out of reach and safe from sharp puppy teeth.
This helps prevent accidents and protects both your puppy and your belongings during those exploratory early months.
Image by Sequoiaphoto from Getty Images via Canva.com
#8 Enriching Toys
Having a range of enriching toys is essential for keeping your puppy mentally stimulated and physically active during the first month when they're probably not going out for walks yet.
Having plenty of stimulating toys helps prevent them from chewing on furniture and belongings out of boredom.
Providing a variety of toys can satisfy their natural urge to chew, reduce anxiety, and keep them engaged.
|
Any toys you purchase for your puppy should be specifically designed for dogs and made of safe, non-toxic materials. You'll also have to regularly size up these toys as your dog grows to prevent choking hazards. |
#9 Puppy Exercise Equipment
Although your puppy won't be going for walks in the first month, it's still a good idea to invest in some puppy exercise equipment, including a well-fitting (but adjustable) harness, a training lead, and puppy-specific car restraints or a car crate.
This will allow you to safely take your dog out of your house for potty breaks in the garden or trips to the vet for vaccinations.
Having your puppy wear its lead and harness for toilet breaks gets it used to wearing it and enforces a routine of leaving the house.
Image by ahloch from Getty Images via Canva.com
#10 Cleaning Products
Regular cleaning products can be harmful to puppies due to their sensitive skin and the fact that they explore with their mouths.
Investing in puppy-specific cleaning products ensures a safe and hygienic environment for your new pet.
|
Ongoing Puppy Supplies
Of course, there are going to be things that you'll need to buy on a rolling month-by-month basis to keep your new puppy happy, healthy, and thriving as they grow into a much-loved member of your family.
Here are some ongoing puppy supplies that you'll need to factor into your budget:
#11 Age-Appropriate Food
Ensuring your puppy has age-appropriate food is a must-have as they grow. The type of food they need will change, especially during the first year or two.
Puppies require specific nutrients to support their rapid growth and development, so it's crucial to adjust their diet accordingly.
Regular consultations with your vet can help guide these dietary changes to ensure your puppy stays healthy and happy as they mature.
Image by Switlana Symonenko from Getty Images via Canva.com
#12 Flea, Tick, & Worm Medication
Regular flea, tick, and worming medication administration is essential for your pup's overall health and well-being.
These parasites can cause serious health issues, such as anaemia, skin infections, and gastrointestinal problems.
Preventative treatments not only protect your pet from discomfort and disease but also safeguard your household from infestations.
Consistently treating your puppy ensures they remain happy, healthy, and free from these potentially harmful parasites.
#13 Dental Care
Maintaining dental care from a young age is vital for your puppy's overall health.
Using dog-specific toothpaste and a soft-bristled or finger dog toothbrush helps prevent plaque and tartar build-up, while dental chews can support oral hygiene by reducing bacteria and freshening breath.
Establishing a routine early on ensures your puppy gets used to dental care, preventing tooth decay, gum disease, and other health issues later in life.
Image by Wavetop from Getty Images via Canva.com
#14 Claw Clippers
Claw clippers are essential for maintaining your puppy's paw health. Regular trimming prevents overgrown claws, which can cause discomfort and lead to mobility issues.
Start early to get your puppy accustomed to the process and ensure their claws stay short and healthy.
|
Clipping your dog's claws may not be necessary as they begin outdoor walks if they're walked on paved or hard surfaces regularly. Check with your vet to see if your dog's claws need clipping. |
#15 Chew Toys
Chew toys and other stimulating toys should regularly be bought for your dog to provide entertainment and mental engagement at home.
These toys help fulfil your dog's natural urge to chew and can reduce anxiety and boredom, preventing unwanted behaviour like chewing on furniture.
Regularly updating and rotating toys keeps them interesting for your growing pup.
|
Basic everyday items like food, poop bags, and treats will also be an ongoing need for your new puppy. |
Prepare for Your New Pup With Bronte Glen!
Properly preparing for your new puppy is important for a smooth transition and a happy, healthy start in your home.
At Bronte Glen, we can help you get ready for your new furry friend with our range of premium dog bedding. Our high-quality, comfortable beds provide a cosy, hygienic space for your new furry friend to relax and feel secure.
From flat beds that fit snuggly into crates to Cosy beds that create a cocoon-like environment, we have the perfect option for every pup with sizes for every breed.
Shop our full range online at Bronte Glen today!
Find the Best Bed for Your Puppy
FAQs
The best things to buy for puppies include age-appropriate food, a comfortable bed, a safe crate, enriching toys, a harness and lead, cleaning products, and flea, tick, and worm medication. These essentials ensure your puppy's health, safety, and happiness during their early months at home.
Dogs need food, water, shelter, healthcare, exercise, training, and companionship. These essentials ensure their physical health, mental stimulation, and emotional well-being, providing a balanced and fulfilling life.
The first week with a puppy can be challenging due to their need for constant supervision, frequent potty breaks, and adjustment to a new environment. Patience and preparation are key to navigating this period smoothly and helping your puppy feel secure and loved.
Our dog beds are suitable for all ages of dogs, including puppies! Our vet bedding is ideal for crates and is comfortable and easy to wash, while our Trojan beds are great for protecting against accidents and the effects of sharp puppy teeth.