🐾 Puppy Essentials Checklist: everything you need for your new doggo

Bringing home a puppy is one of life’s most exciting moments—but it can also come with a lot of questions, including: what do I need for a new puppy, and what should I buy before they arrive? 

Don't worry - we've got you covered with our Puppy Essential Checklist. Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or just need a refresher, this checklist includes all of the must-haves to help you feel confident and prepared from day one.

🏡 Home + sleep essentials

Your new pup needs a comfy and safe place to chill—and sleep (a lot!).

  • ✅ Soft (and preferably) washable bed

  • ✅ Crate or playpen for their safe time and sleep training

  • ✅ Blanket or cuddly toy for comfort and warmth

  • ✅ Baby gate (optional) to keep them out of mischief and contained

Pro tip: Choose a bed that's machine washable—you'll thank yourself later.

🍽️ Food + feeding supplies

Fuel your pup with the right food.

  • ✅ High-quality puppy food (your vet can help you choose or local pet store)

  • ✅ Non-slip food & water bowls—we love stainless steel for easy cleaning

  • ✅ Puppy treats (essential for training)

  • ✅ Slow feeder or puzzle bowl (for the fast eaters)

🐕 Walkies + identification

Even tiny paws are made for walkies (eventually and post vaccinations - with your vets advice).

  • ✅ Adjustable collar or soft harness (puppy-sized and comfy)

  • ✅ Leash (lightweight to start, more sturdy as they grow)

  • ✅ ID tag with your pup’s name and your phone number

  • ✅ Microchip (talk to your vet—it’s a must have for safety)

  • ✅ AirTag (incase they don't respond well to recall)

Keep their first walks short and fun to build confidence and get your new bestie comfortable with walking on leash.

🚽 Toilet Training Essentials

Accidents are bound to happen.

  • ✅ Puppy pee pads or grass toilet

  • ✅ Poop bags (biodegradable preferably)

  • ✅ Enzymatic cleaner to remove smells and prevent repeat peeing spots

  • ✅ Training treats for every successful potty trip

🧸 Toys + Enrichment

Playtime is serious business for pups.

  • ✅ Teething-friendly chew toys (save your shoes, and thank us later)

  • ✅ Soft cuddly toys

  • ✅ Interactive toys or puzzle feeders

  • ✅ Tug toys or squeaky balls

Rotate toys weekly to keep things exciting.

🛁 Grooming Basics

Start grooming early to help your pup feel relaxed and chill with the process.

  • ✅ Puppy-safe shampoo

  • ✅ Soft brush or comb

  • ✅ Nail clippers or vet/groomer appointments

  • ✅ Doggy toothbrush + toothpaste (yes, really)

This will help your pup quickly get into the rhythm and will also make visits to the vet and groomers easier!

🩺 Health + Vet Care

Your vet will be your BFF when it comes to keeping your pup healthy.

  • ✅ First vet visit booked within the first week

  • ✅ Vaccination schedule set up

  • ✅ Flea, tick & worming treatments (your vet can recommend the best options)

  • ✅ Pet insurance (optional, but definitely worth considering)

🐶 Bonus: Your Daily Puppy Routine

Puppies thrive on structure! Set up a simple daily routine for:

  • Meal times

  • Potty breaks (we advise within 20-30 minutes of eating, and then on every hour to build routine)

  • Nap time

  • Walkies

  • Playtime

  • Training time

  • Bedtime

Final Thoughts

Bringing home a new puppy is a wild ride — it's equal parts chaos and rewarding. 🐾

This puppy essentials checklist is here to help make those first few weeks smooth and stress-free.

Got a new pup? We’ve got the gear. Shop walkies essentials now and follow us on Instagram @shopbigdogenergy for doggo content and inspiration.

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