The Ultimate New Puppy Checklist

Written By Monique Brown

Bringing home a new puppy? Congratulations — and welcome to the wildest, cutest, most rewarding adventure ever. 🐾

Whether it’s your first pup or your fifth, those early puppy days can feel like a total whirlwind. I thought I was prepared — after all, I grew up around dogs and had my first dog, Foxxy, for over 10 wonderful years (though she was already 3 when I rescued her). But bringing home Bosley as a puppy? That was a whole different story. I quickly realized I needed a serious refresher on puppy life.

That’s exactly why I’ve put together this Ultimate New Puppy Checklist — to help you stay organized, feel confident, and maybe even enjoy the chaos (or at least survive it with your shoes intact).

🎉 Bonus: Download the free printable version at the bottom of this post to keep on your fridge or puppy binder!

Home Setup Essentials

Before your new furball arrives, prep your space so it’s safe, cozy, and puppy-proofed.

  • Crate (appropriately sized for crate training & naps)

  • Baby gates or playpen (to block off areas)

  • Puppy-proofing supplies (electrical plug covers, cabinet locks, etc.)

  • Dog bed or soft blankets

  • Food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic preferred)

  • Puppy food (ask breeder/shelter what they’ve been feeding)

  • Treats for training (small, soft, and high-value)

  • Enzyme cleaner (trust me — accidents happen)

  • Toys (chew toys, plush, and brain games). Check out this toy bundle to get you started here.

Grooming Supplies

Even if your pup is tiny now, good grooming habits start right away. This will ensure that your puppy will be used to brushing, nail trims, etc so there will be less anxiety and chaos down the road.

  • Brush or comb (depends on coat type)

  • Puppy shampoo (gentle and tear-free). This is the shampoo that I use on Bosley and Foxxy here.

  • Dog toothbrush & toothpaste

  • Nail clippers or grinder

  • Towels just for your pup

Training & Enrichment Tools

Keep your puppy’s brain just as active as their legs.

  • Clicker (for clicker training)

  • Puzzle toys or snuffle mat

  • Lick mat for calming enrichment

  • Long leash for recall training

  • Poop bags + dispenser

📘 Want ideas for enrichment games? Sign up for our email list to get our FREE Enrichment Activity Checklist below!

Health & Safety Must-Haves

Plan ahead for wellness care and emergencies.

  • Vet appointment scheduled (preferably in first 3–5 days)

  • Vaccination & deworming records. Check out our post about vaccination schedules

  • Flea/tick and heartworm prevention

  • Puppy-safe ID tag & microchip

  • First aid kit for pets

On-the-Go Gear

Even short car rides with a puppy need prep!

  • Car seatbelt harness or travel crate

  • Travel water bottle or collapsible bowl

  • Potty pads or cleanup bags

  • Comfort item for the car (blanket, toy)

  • Leash & collar (or harness)

Nice-to-Haves

Not required — but they’ll make life easier.

🖨️ Download the Free Printable Checklist!

We made this into a handy PDF checklist so you can check items off as you prep, shop, and settle in.

🎁 👉 Download the Ultimate New Puppy Checklist (Printable PDF)

Final Woof

Preparing for a puppy can feel overwhelming — but with this checklist, you’ve got all your bases covered. Focus on creating a safe, loving environment and bonding with your new best friend. The rest? You’ll figure it out (with help from us, of course ).

Monique Brown
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