Bringing a puppy home is far less stressful when the essentials are ready and waiting. Use this checklist to shop before day one, so your puppy walks into a home set up for success.
Feeding
- Good-quality puppy food (the same brand the breeder used, at first)
- Non-slip food and water bowls
- Airtight food storage container
Sleeping and safe space
- A comfortable, washable bed
- A crate or playpen sized for growth
- A soft blanket that can carry familiar scents
Walking and identification
- An adjustable collar with an engraved ID tag
- A well-fitted harness
- A 1.5 metre flat leash
- Poop bags — lots of them
Play and enrichment
- A few durable chew toys (vital during teething)
- A puzzle feeder or lick mat for calm focus
- A soft tug or plush toy for gentle play
Grooming and cleaning
- A puppy-safe brush suited to the coat type
- Gentle puppy shampoo
- Nail clippers and dog toothpaste
- Enzyme cleaner for the inevitable accidents
Health and safety
- Baby gates to block off-limits areas
- Cable tidies and bin locks for puppy-proofing
- A first-aid basics kit and your vet’s number saved
Buy for growth, not just today
A tiny puppy grows fast. Choose adjustable or larger-size gear where you can, and expect to replace collars and beds as they grow. Prioritise safety items and comfort first — the fun extras can follow once your puppy has settled in.