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

May 12, 2025

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

That’s where this puppy essentials checklist comes in. Whether you’re a first-time dog parent or just need a refresher, this guide covers all the puppy starter kit must-haves to help you feel confident and prepared from day one.

🏡 Home + sleep essentials

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

✅ Soft, washable puppy bed
✅ Crate or playpen for safe alone time and sleep training
✅ Blanket or snuggly toy for comfort and warmth
✅ Baby gate (optional) to keep them out of mischief

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

🍽️ Food + feeding supplies

Fuel your pup with the right tools at mealtime.

✅ High-quality puppy food (your vet can help you choose)
✅ Non-slip food & water bowls—we love stainless steel for easy cleaning
✅ Puppy treats (essential for training)
✅ Slow feeder or puzzle bowl (for 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 for safety)
✅ AirTag (incase they don't respond well to recall)

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

🚽 Toilet Training Essentials

Accidents will happen, so it's best to be prepared.

✅ 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 a growing pup.

✅ Teething-friendly chew toys (save your shoes and thank us later)
✅ Soft cuddly toys
✅ Interactive toys or puzzle feeders
✅ Tug toys or squeaky balls for bonding and fun

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)

🩺 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 worth considering)

🐶 Bonus: Your Daily Puppy Routine

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

Meal times
Potty breaks
Nap windows
Walks/play
Training time
Bedtime

Final Thoughts

Bringing home a new puppy is a wild ride—equal parts chaos, cuddles, and cuteness overload. 🐾

This puppy essentials checklist is here to help make those first few weeks smooth and stress-free—because every pup deserves a great start (and every human deserves fewer surprises at 3am).

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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