New Puppy Shopping List
Amanda Gagnon
So you adopted, or are about to adopt, an adorable wiggly little puppy. Congratulations!!! You're going to need some stuff.
The Basics:
Leash - A starter 6-foot leash with a sturdy clasp. A reflective strip is a good safety feature. Make sure it isn’t too heavy for your puppy’s neck.
Collar - A starter collar. Get one that is safe (won't break easily), but don't break the bank. You'll be trading up for a bigger size soon.
ID tag - The cheapest option will do. You'll probably upgrade this later as well.
Simple Beginner Bedding - An old blanket is best. Don't splurge on the expensive beds until you have completed house training.
Water Bowl - Anything will do. Stainless steel is easy to clean.
House Training:
If you're not sure how to use any of the tools below, reach out to us. For an easy, detailed lesson on house training, check out our online house-training workshop.
Crate. Budget-friendly and perfectly sufficient. Lux option.
Gates and/or play pen.
Nature's Miracle Clean Up Spray
Wee pads.
Biodegradable Poop Pick Up Bags
Grooming:
It is important to start grooming early, and to do so in a positive way so your puppy will learn to enjoy it. Take it slowly and feed lots of treats while you groom. You may also choose to take your puppy to the groomer for regular baths and brush-outs, but you should still practice some of this yourself during puppyhood.
Shampoo/Conditioner. This has always been my favorite.
Hair Comb
Nail Clippers
Toothbrush
Feeding:
Talk to your veterinarian about proper nutrition for your puppy! Your vet has the most expertise about the best way to feed your individual dog. We recommend feeding your puppy from Kong toys. Join our puppy kindergarten class for a detailed discussion of your dog’s mental stimulation needs, including the importance of kong feeding.
Kongs! Get a few. You'll use them.
Food!
Treats.
Fun Stuff!
I love buying toys for my dog!! Safety is the top priority! Just like toddlers, puppies have a tendency to swallow things. Buy sturdy, chewable toys. Don't leave plush toys with your puppy unsupervised. Kong, Nylabone, Chuck-it are all readily available, reliable brands.
Balls
Tuggable Toys
Nylon Chews
Always avoid buying anything for your dog that could cause unnecessary pain, stress, or discomfort. A young puppy is very impressionable, and it is downright dangerous to use painful training tools at this age.
Happy Shopping! :)