Bringing home a new puppy can feel like one of life’s most exciting moments.Those feelings of excitement can also come coupled with an overwhelming sense of responsibility – don’t worry, we’re here to help. This guide will walk you through everything you need to prepare you for the adventures of puppyhood with your new bestie. Now let’s get started.
Puppies love to chew—on, well, everything. That’s why toys top the list of puppy essentials. If you want any chance of keeping your belongings in one piece, make sure to stock up on a few puppy-friendly toys. Just remember to keep an eye on your little one while they’re playing to avoid a surprise trip to the emergency vet.
After a long day of play, your puppy needs a comfy spot to rest those cute little paws. A soft, comfortable bed and a couple of cozy blankets will help them feel right at home in their new den. Bonus points for finding machine-washable bedding!
A leash and harness are your puppy’s ticket to safely exploring their new world. Start walking your puppy on a leash early, and soon enough, the whole neighborhood will know that the hottest duo on the block has officially arrived.
When I say essential, I mean it! A crate is crucial for you and your puppy to live your best, balanced, and accident-free life in the long run. Think of your puppy’s crate as their own mini-home—a cozy, safe space where they can feel secure. Crate training also helps tremendously with housebreaking and keeps them safe when you can’t keep an eye on them. When in doubt, put them in the crate!
Your puppy deserves the best dining experience, of course. Look for food and water bowls that are the right size for your little pup and easy to clean. Tip: Stainless steel bowls are a great option—they’re durable and don’t harbor bacteria.
Perfect portions every time! Feeding your puppy the right amount is key to keeping them healthy, so do your little bestie a favor and get a measuring cup just for them. Make sure to research how much you should be feeding your puppy based on their age and breed size—once you do, you’re golden.
Brushing your puppy’s teeth might not be on your radar, but it’s a habit worth starting from day one. In the early days, you can get your little one comfortable with the toothbrush in their mouth, and add toothpaste later. They’ll lose their puppy teeth anyway, but getting them used to the routine now will make it easier down the line.
Keeping those tiny nails trimmed is crucial, and starting early helps your puppy get used to a process that will be part of their routine. A small electric razor for paw pads is also handy for keeping their feet neat and clean, especially for those troublemakers who love to run right through the dirt.
Start brushing your puppy’s coat early—it’s a must if you want to keep them free of mats and tangles. Soon enough, they’ll be comfortable with regular grooming and ready to be the best-groomed pup on the block.
Accidents happen, especially when your new roomie is a puppy. A good spot-cleaning spray is a must for when your little one leaves you a not-so-sweet surprise on the floor. It helps keep your home clean and odor-free, even when your puppy has other plans.
No one likes to talk about it, but we’ve got to. Sorry if I’m the first to tell you, but poop bags are your new best friend. No one enjoys walking through a minefield of dog poo on a nice afternoon walk. Just get a cute poop bag holder and call it a day!
