New Puppy Checklist – Everything Your Puppy Needs
You have a new puppy.
Whoopee!
Those tiny paws, those big trusting eyes, those cuddles.
But…
But in addition to your love and excitement, your puppy needs essential supplies.
This is why we’ve prepared this New Puppy Checklist.
The checklist covers everything your puppy needs – so it can become the best it can ever be!
Let’s do this.
New Puppy Checklist
And now… let’s get your puppy those essential supplies!
FOOD
Yes, we start your puppy checklist with food.
This is because puppies grow and develop much faster than adult dogs.
And because your puppy needs very specific nutrients if it’s to grow into a healthy dog.
Your puppy needs food that is:
- High in calories (for healthy growth)
- High protein count of at least 22% (for healthy development)
- A balanced calcium and phosphorus content (for healthy bone growth)
- Added DHA (component in omega-3 fatty acid) for optimal brain development
Yes, your puppy needs more of the good stuff!
This is why you should feed your puppy food that is specifically designed for a puppy.
BEST OVERALL FOOD FOR PUPPY
Open Farm
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Designed specifically for puppies to support optimal growth and development
- Human-grade ingredients
- Special cooking process that removes bacteria while retaining great flavor
- 100% animal welfare certified mix of chicken, pork, beef, and salmon
- Packed with vegetables and superfoods (non-GMO)
- Free of hormones, antibiotics, and steroids
- Prebiotic fiber for healthy digestion
BEST DRY FOOD
CHICKEN & RICE
Purina
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Real chicken as the first ingredient for healthy muscles
- Tender meaty shreds (a unique texture and taste that dogs naturally crave)
- DHA from omega-rich fish oil for brain and vision development
- Antioxidants for a healthy immune system
- Calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals for strong teeth and bones
- High-quality protein (including real chicken) for healthy muscles
LAMB & RICE
Purina
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Real lamb as the first ingredient for healthy muscles
- DHA from omega-rich fish oil for brain and vision development
- Highly digestible formula
- Complete and balanced recipe fortified with live probiotics and antioxidants for digestive and immune health
- Calcium, phosphorus, vitamin A, and omega-6 fatty acids for strong bones, teeth, skin, and coat
LARGE BREED FORMULA
Purina
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Real chicken as the first ingredient for healthy muscles
- Specifically formulated for large breed puppies
- Glucosamine for healthy joints and cartilage
- DHA from omega-rich fish oil for brain and vision development
- Calcium, phosphorus, and other minerals for strong teeth and bones
BEST BUNDLE (WET + DRY)
Pedigree
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Complete and balanced nutrition
- Antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals super healthy lifestyle
- DHA for healthy brain development
- Calcium and phosphorus for healthy teeth and strong bones
- Formulated just for puppies (meaty and ground texture that puppies love)
- Highly digestible for easy nutrient absorption
PRO TIP
Make sure to ask the dog breeder (or shelter) what your puppy was fed before it arrived to your home.
Maintain this diet at first – then transition to new food when required, following your vet’s advice.
We recommend that you follow these steps when switching your puppy to new dog food:
- Week 1: 25% new food and 75% old food
- Week 2: 50% new food and 50% old food
- Week 3: 25% new food and 75% old food
- Week 4: 100% new food
Make sure to only increase the weekly food percentage if your puppy is doing well during each weekly transition.
If you notice any adverse reaction to the new food, just stop feeding it to your dog.
Switching to a new dog food too fast can upset your dog’s stomach and can lead to diarrhea or vomiting.
PUPPY SUPPLEMENTS
Puppy supplements are not compulsory.
But many dog owners give their puppies supplements for extra support for the dog’s:
- Brain
- Bones
- General health
Make sure to talk to your vet before introducing your puppy to supplements.
BEST HIGH CALORIE SUPPLEMENT
Tomlyn
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Irresistible taste for picky eaters (and sickly dogs)
- Also great for puppies separated from their mothers prematurely
- Supports and boosts a healthy appetite
- Packed with carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids
- Formulated for puppies (by vets)
- Easy to serve
BEST CALCIUM & PHOSPHORUS SUPPLEMENT
PetAg
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Promotes optimal bone, ligament, and tendon development
- Provides calcium, phosphorus, and vitamins A and D (essential during rapid growth)
- Feed it directly to your pup or mix it in with food
BEST MULTIVITAMIN PUPPY SUPPLEMENT
PetHonesty
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Packed with vitamins, minerals, omegas, and probiotics
- Supports healthy brain, joints, immune system, skin, and guts
- A powerful mix of natural ingredients like DHA and Beta-Carotene
- Free from corn, wheat, and soy
BEST MILK REPLACER POWDER
PetAg
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Made with natural, whole, goat’s milk
- Provides a complete food source for orphaned or rejected puppies
- Can also be given to a stressed adult dog who needs more digestible nutrients
- Suitable as a supplement for post-surgery care
- Also great for older dogs
BEST CALMING PUPPY SUPPLEMENT
Pupford
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Helps ease anxiety, stress, and hyperactivity in growing puppies
- Made with chamomile, passion flower, valerian root, and L-theanine
- Specially formulated for puppies, but can also be used with adult dogs
- Very tasty for dogs
PUPPY FOOD STORAGE
Many dog owners forget about dog food storage.
But dog food storage is essential.
This is because dog food can quickly become stale when kept in the original package.
Also, what do you think will happen when your puppy finds an easy-to-open dog food bag?
BEST DOG FOOD STORAGE
Vault
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Airtight seal keeps food fresh
- Heavy duty
- Food grade plastic (BPA free)
- Easy to open screw lid
- Keeps dog food odor contained in the container
- No more dog food smells in your house!
BEST FOOD SCOOP
Petmate
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Easy to clean
- Dishwasher safe
- Resistant to bacteria buildup
- Holds up to 3 cups
- Helps measure portions (no more guessing!)
TREATS
Yes, puppies not only love but also need treats.
Treats can be used as:
- Training tools for learning new tricks and following commands
- Stress reliever
- Dental hygiene
- Entertainment
Here are our top 2 picks for the best treats for your pup.
Waggin’ Train
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Suitable even for dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Suitable for dogs of all sizes
- No artificial colors or flavors
- No grains, corn, or fillers
- 100% digestible
Best Bully Sticks
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- All-natural and 100% digestible
- No additives, no chemicals, and no preservatives
- Suitable for dogs of all sizes
- Hypoallergenic
- Long-lasting
Important: Check with your vet if these treats are suitable for your puppy.
BOWLS
And now let’s get your puppy something to eat from.
Look for food and water bowls with a non-slip base.
We also recommend stainless steel and ceramic bowls over plastic ones.
Stainless steel and ceramic bowls are more durable and are easier to clean, compared to plastic bowls.
PRO TIP
Avoid plastic bowls.
Plastic bowls are not as antimicrobial as stainless steel and ceramic bowls.
Plastic can also contain chemicals that can cause health issues such as stomach irritation or acne.
BEST STAINLESS STEEL BOWL
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Durable stainless steel bowl
- Stain- and rust-resistant
- Easy to clean (dishwasher safe)
- High-quality polished finish (look great in any home décor)
- A non-slip base ensures a secure grip to prevent tipping and spills
- Rubber base (helps protect your floor)
BEST CERAMIC BOWL
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Non-slip base for a secure grip to prevent tipping and spills
- Easy cleaning (top-rack dishwasher safe)
- Will add a neutral, stylish touch to your home
BEST BONE CHINA BOWL
Hanamya
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Made from high-quality bone China!
- A unique half-moon shape (helps prevent spills and mess)
- Non-slip silicone base
- Elevated design for a comfortable feeding posture
- Safe for dishwasher, refrigerator, and microwave
BEST ELEVATED BOWL
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Helps reduce neck strain at mealtime
- A comfortable height for small and medium-sized dogs
- Easy cleaning (top-rack dishwasher safe)
- The marble print stand is hand-washable
BEST TRAVEL BOWL
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Foldable
- BPA-free
- A carabiner clip to easily attach to leashes or bags
- Easy to clean (dishwasher safe)
BEST DOG WATER BOTTLE
Choco Nose
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Leak-proof nozzle (keeps the crate dry)
- BPA-free
- Easily installs into any crate (easily adjust the height to fit your dog)
- Recommended for small to medium dogs
BEST TRAVEL DOG WATER BOTTLE
Springer
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- 2-in-1 design (a water bottle and a dog bowl in one)
- A leak-proof valve (prevents spills)
- Fits in most car cup holders
- BPA-free, food-safe material
FEEDERS
A slow feeder (puzzle feeder) will make your pup work for its food.
This will:
- Slow down your dog’s eating
- Encourage your doggy to chew food, rather than just gulp it down
- Provide tons of fun and mental stimulation for your hungry pup
BEST INTERACTIVE FEEDER
Outward Hound
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Helps reduce obesity and bloat
- Improves digestion in fast-eating dogs
- A simple maze design to promote a healthier eating pace
- Non-slip base (holds the bowl in place to prevent spills)
- Easy cleaning (top-rack dishwasher safe)
BEST PUZZLE FEEDER
Outward Hound
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Intermediate dog puzzle (slow feeder) for pups with little to no puzzle experience
- Provides mental stimulation
- Helps reduce dog anxiety
- Redirects unwanted behaviors like excessive barking and chewing
BEST DOG LICK MAT
Hyper Pet
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Slows down eating (helps improve your dog’s digestion)
- Can freshen your dog’s breath by scraping the tongue
- Helps keep your dog engaged during baths, nail trimmings, thunderstorms, and more
BEST DOG LICK MAT (ALTERNATIVE)
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Provides an engaging distraction for a dog
- Easy to clean (for the top rack of a dishwasher)
- Textured mat (perfect for spreadable treats such as peanut butter)
BEST AUTOMATIC DOG FOOD DISPENSER
Petlibro
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Set up to 6 meals a day with 1–16 portions each
- Control panel cover to prevent accidental button presses from your dog
- 180-day battery life
CRATES, PENS, GATES
A good crate and pen are essential for your puppy.
Also consider a gate.
CRATE
Here are the main reasons for getting a crate:
- Helps protect your dog (and avoid trouble) when you’re away
- Creates a save zone and chill spot for your dog
- Protects your items from your naughty dog (without crate training, your dog may chew on anything from shoes to carpets to furniture)
- Teaches your dog to hold it in a crate (which goes hand in hand with potty training)
- Solves separation anxiety (a dog can be trained to associate its crate with happiness)
- Makes your dog more comfortable being alone
- Makes it easier to manage your dog around guests
- Helps your dog adjust faster and better to overnight stays at the vet
- Helps your dog better handle travel
BEST CRATE
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Collapsible (fold & carry)
- A divider panel creates a comfortable and safe space for a smaller pup that can be removed as your dog grows
- Easy to assemble (no tools needed)
- Great for travel (fold & carry)
BEST PEN
No, you can’t keep an eye on your new puppy all day every day – all the roaming, chewing, and pooping!
Also, you probably have areas in your home you don’t want your puppy to access – such as your home office area, child’s bedroom, and more.
This is why we recommend that you use a pen.
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Perfect for puppies (but also great for adult dogs)
- Foldable (great for travel and storage)
- Made to last (very durable)
- You can change the shape of the gate (fits in any space)
- You can connect two Frisco pens for more dogs
BEST GATE
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Eight-panel design (can be wall mounted or stand freely in different shapes)
- You can change the shape of the gate (fits in any space)
- Very durable
BEST GATE (ALTERNATIVE)
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Make any room in your house a safe place for your pup to play
- Easy to assemble
- Very secure
BEST CRATE MAT
MidWest
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Perfect to keep your dog comfortable in a house, crate, or car
- Ultra-soft
- Stylish
- Easy to clean (machine-washable)
PRO TIP
Make sure the crate isn’t too small or too large.
The crate should be large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around, lie down, and stretch.
But the crate shouldn’t be so large that your pup can do its pooping or urinating business in one end of the crate and sleep in the other end. That’s right, dogs usually don’t poop or urinate where they eat and sleep.
Also, never use the crate as punishment!
BEDS
Every puppy needs a comfy sleeping place.
Some dog owners use old blankets or towels as puppy beds during the potting training phase.
But if you want to treat your puppy from day one, find a proper puppy bed.
Make sure the bed is:
- Soft & cozy
- Durable (to survive chewing)
- Washable
- Big enough for your growing pup
BEST ORTHOPEDIC DOG BED
FurHaven
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Provides therapeutic back and neck support for your furry pup
- Made with medical-grade orthopedic foam
- A unique contoured shape
- Step-on design (perfect for smaller, older or disabled dogs)
- Easy to clean (removable cover is machine washable)
BEST ELEVATED DOG BED
K&H Pet Products
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Elevated design allows airflow (keeps your dog cool in warm weather)
- Prevents contact with wet or cold surfaces, bugs, and dirt
- Very sturdy
- Easy cleaning (removable and machine washable cover)
- Easy to assemble and disassemble without tools (great for travel)
BEST ELEVATED DOG BED (ALTERNATIVE)
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Breathable fabric provides an added level of comfort and support
- Very durable
- Won’t sag after extended use
- Easy to assemble and clean
- Perfect for indoor or outdoor use
TOYS
Puppies love to play!
But there is more to toys than just playing. Much more.
Here are the best toys for your puppy.
BEST CHEW TOY
Nylabone
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Teething toy (helps soothe the sore gums of your puppy)
- Encourages proper chewing habits from an early age
- Bright colors (keep your pup engaged)
- Massage the gums of your puppy
- Helps clean your puppy’s teeth
- A delicious bacon flavor
BEST KONG CHEW TOY
KONG
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Specially designed to soothe the gums of a teething puppy
- Unpredictable bounce (perfect for energetic puppies)
- Helps establish appropriate chewing and playing behavior
- Perfect for stuffing with KONG treats
BEST PLUSH TOY (ANXIETY RELIEF)
Snuggle Puppy
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Provides soothing comfort (relieves anxiety)
- Helps reduce negative behaviors
- Aids in crate & kennel training (reduces barking, whining, and nervousness)
- Includes a Real-Feel heartbeat
BEST PUZZLE TOY
Outward Hound
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Perfect puzzle dog toy for a puppy
- Level 1 brain toy for beginners
- Very durable
- Helps reduce destructive behaviors
- Encourages activity
BEST ACTIVITY TOY
KONG
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Perfect for teaching your puppy to fetch
- Enhances intellectual development of puppies
- Great for puppies with plenty of energy to burn
- You can use it with KONG treats
- Soothes the gums of a teething puppy
- Helps to clean teeth
BEST FETCH TOY
KONG
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Perfect size for teaching your puppy to fetch
- Gentle on teeth when your pup catches it
- Great for puppies with plenty of energy to burn
- Safe, flexible, and super durable
BEST FETCH TOY (ALTERNATIVE)
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Perfect for teaching your puppy to fetch
- The squeaker will grab your pup’s attention and make playtime more exciting
- Very durable
- Easy to clean
BEST TOYS BUNDLE
Rocket & Rex
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Six toys for maximum fun and variety
- Very durable
- Helps discourage destructive chewing
- Reduces anxiety
- Keeps your pup’s teeth and gums clean
COLLARS & LEASHES
Now we’re walking…
Look for a collar that is:
- Adjustable (to accommodate your growing puppy)
- Lightweight
- Soft (gentle for your puppy)
- Brightly colored (good visibility)
- Personalized (optional)
BEST COLLAR (PERSONALIZED)
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Personalized with your dog’s name and your contact information
- Adjustable (get the exact fit for your pup)
- Reflective (great visibility)
- Very durable
- A ring to attach your pup’s ID tag
HARNESS
So, should you get your puppy a collar or a harness?
We recommend both – so you’re prepared for whatever works best at any given time.
For example, if your puppy pulls too strongly (or too quickly) on a leash, it may damage its trachea.
It’s worth noting that a collapsed trachea is much more common in smaller dog breeds like Pomeranians and Yorkshire Terriers. Smaller dogs have more fragile structures.
A harness is better at protecting your puppy’s neck and throat. But note that you will need to buy more than one harness as your pup gets bigger and bigger.
BEST HARNESS (BACK CLIP)
Li’l Pals
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Adjustable (comfortable and secure fit)
- Back D-ring for gentle guidance on walks
- Breathable mesh material (keeps dogs cool)
- Great for fussy pups
LEASH
We recommend that you start with a 4 ft or 6 ft leash.
We also recommend a standard leash, rather than a retractable one.
A standard leash is better at training your puppy to stay close and discourages it from free roaming. Yes, you want your doggy to walk nicely by your side, not ahead of you.
BEST LEASH
Li’l Pals
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Very comfortable grip
- Easy to put on
- Strong for secure handling
- Stylish design
ID TAG
Get an ID tag as soon as possible and secure it on your pup’s collar – you never know.
An ID tag will allow people to bring your lost puppy back home. Phew!
An ID Tag should include:
- Your puppy’s name
- Your telephone number
- Your city
- Any relevant medical information
- “I’m microchipped” message – if your pup is microchipped
- “I’m lost – please call my mom” message (optional)
DID YOU KNOW?
Your local pet store can engrave all the key information on your dog’s ID tag within minutes.
BEST ID TAG
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Very secure
- Plenty of space for essential info (dog’s name, your contact details)
- Available in two sizes to suit dogs of any sizes
MICROCHIP
A microchip will track your dog in case you lose sight of the escape artist.
A microchip is a very tiny electronic device – it can be implanted under your dog’s skin.
Your puppy’s microchip info is linked to your personal contact info.
A vet can scan the implanted microchip to retrieve the stored info.
And how can you get a microchip for your pup?
Your pup may have arrived at your home with a microchip already implanted under the skin. Some dog breeders and shelters equip their dogs with microchips. Just double-check that the information has been updated to you as the new dog owner.
But if your puppy arrives without a microchip, just talk to your vet about getting one.
GROOMING
Your puppy needs to get used to being groomed and handled from a very young age.
This will make daily grooming and vet visits much easier – for you, your dog, and the vet.
DOG BRUSH
Choose a dog brush that is suitable for the type of your dog’s coat.
A long-hair dog needs daily brushing, while a short-hair dog may only need an occasional brush.
Fun Fact: Brushing your dog strengthens your bond with the pet.
BEST DOG BRUSH
Hartz
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Dual-action (detangles, removes loose fur, and softens coat in one step)
- Two specialized sides for a healthy coat and shedding reduction
- Very gentle
- Nylon bristles help bring out the softness and shine of your dog’s coat
- Ergonomic handle prevents strain and fatigue while grooming your pup
BEST SHAMPOO
Burt’s Bees
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Tearless!
- Buttermilk soothes and softens the skin
- Linseed oil conditions the skin and coat
- Made with 97% natural ingredients
BEST CONDITIONER
Best Shot
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Vitamin-enriched formula for soft and shiny coat
- Hypoallergenic (safe for puppies)
- Detangles fur
BEST 2-IN-1 SHAMPOO & CONDITIONER
Arm & Hammer
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- 2-in-1 shampoo and conditioner
- Tearless!
- Gentle
- Made with natural ingredients
NAIL CLIPPER
Make sure your puppy is used to having its paws touched and nails clipped as soon as possible.
Clipping your dog’s nails is very important but can be very difficult if your pup is not used to the procedure.
You should clip your dog’s nails every 2 to 3 weeks.
BEST NAIL CLIPPER
Pet Life
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Built-in LED light to illuminate your dog’s nails
- No batteries required (charge through USB)
- Anti-slip grip for perfect control
- Waterproof trim guard that collects nail trimmings
DENTAL CARE
Yes, brushing your pup’s teeth may sound silly, but it’s a great way to prevent plaque buildup.
And no, you don’t need to brush your dog’s teeth daily – although the more often the better.
Please note that most dogs aren’t too crazy about brushing their teeth at first, but you can easily train your pup to have its teeth brushed.
Make sure to get toothpaste made specifically for dogs. This is because toothpaste for humans contains ingredients that are toxic to dogs and other pets.
Also, dog toothpaste often comes in a delicious flavor such as chicken or peanut butter.
As you’ll see below, you can use either a traditional dog toothbrush or a brush that fits over your fingertip.
BEST TOOTHBRUSH (FINGER DESIGN)
Jasper
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Allows you to clean your dog’s entire mouth with just a few swipes!
- Soft but abrasive enough to remove plaque
BEST TOOTHBRUSH (TRADITIONAL DESIGN)
H&H Pets
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Made from human-usage grade materials
- Each toothbrush has a small and a large brush head
- Angled heads for easy access to the front and back teeth
- Soft bristles remove plaque without being too tough on your dog’s gums
BEST TOOTHPASTE
Petrodex
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Veterinary strength for super effective clean
- Controls plaque and tartar
- Enzymatic
- Freshens breath
- Poultry flavor (loved by dogs)
BEST TOOTHPASTE (ALTERNATIVE)
Virbac
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Enzymatic
- Inhibits the formation of plaque
- No foaming agents (can be swallowed)
BEST DENTAL CHEW
N-Bone
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- No corn, wheat, or soy (easily digestible by puppies)
- Relieves sore gums and teething pain
- Chicken flavor (loved by puppies!)
- Fortified with DHA and fatty acids for a healthy brain and skin and a shiny coat
- Crafted with calcium for optimal bone and teeth health
BEST BRUSHLESS TEETH CLEANING
TropiClean
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- No brushing required!
- Reduces bad puppy breath, plaque, and tartar buildup
- Safe for daily use
- Made from natural ingredients
POOPING BUSINESS
This must be your favorite part of your puppy duties, right?
POOP BAGS
You can never have enough poop bags.
You can find them in every pocket of every dog owner.
Better too many than not enough, right?
BEST POOP BAGS
Earth Rated
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Compact and convenient (take them anywhere)
- Extra-long, extra-strong, and leak-proof (your hands are always protected)
- Scented!
- Made from recycled plastic
BEST POOP BAGS (ALTERNATIVE)
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Durable and leak-proof
- Made with 50% recycled materials
- Scented!
BEST POOPER SCOOPER
DogBuddy
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- No more touching your dog’s droppings with your hands!
- Hooks directly onto your dog’s leash for easy portability
BEST POOPER SCOOPER (FOR GRASSY AREAS)
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Jagged teeth, spring-action jaws (easy scooping in grass)
- Long handle (less bending over)
- So simple to use that you only need one hand to scoop
- Easy to clean and store
BEST DOG ODOR & STAIN REMOVER
A puppy will often urinate where it has done its business before. That’s right, not cleaning urine spots will tell your pup that these spots are acceptable potty places. Oh dear!
So make sure to clean up accidents with a reliable urine odor remover.
POOPH
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Perfect for removing dog odors and stains
- Great for feces, urine, vomit, and more
- Prevents your dog from making a mess in the same area
- Safe for use around humans, pets, and plants
BEST POTTY PADS
Frisco
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Fast-drying, super-absorbent (keep your floor dry and make cleanup easy)
- Leak-proof and disposable pads
- Available unscented (with dog attractant) or scented with a pleasant aroma
- Helps make potty training much easier
BEST WIPES
TropiClean
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Suitable for dogs 12 weeks and older
- Refreshing dog wipes (for face, paws, body, and butt)
- Moisturize skin and coat
- Long-lasting berry and coconut scent
BEST EAR WIPES
Not for your pup’s bum but for ears.
Pet MD
WHY WE RECOMMEND IT
- Gently removes dirt, wax. and discharge which can cause ear odors and infections
- Helps prevent common ear problems
- Soothes with aloe vera
- Keeps dog ears fresh with natural eucalyptus oil
FIND THE RIGHT VET
Finding the right vet for your dog is critical.
Follow these guidelines when looking for a vet for your pup:
- Distance from your home: Choose a vet as close as possible to your home. This will allow you to make a quick dash in case of emergencies. This will also save time for routine vet visits.
- Opening hours: Make sure their opening hours fit your schedule.
- Services offered: Look for pet hospitals that offer a wide range of services. Ideally, you want one place that offers services such as dental, nutrition, and surgeries.
- Qualification and experience: It would be great if your vet specializes in your puppy’s breed – but this is not a must. But at least make sure the vet is fully licensed to perform key dog services.
- Service culture: See if they allow dog owners to accompany their dogs into an examination room. Also, find out if they have separate waiting areas for dogs, cats, and other pets.
PRO TIP
Don’t delay the first vet visit once your puppy arrives to your home.
All puppies need core vaccines to strengthen their immunity for safe outdoor adventures and playdates with other dogs.
Your veterinarian will also screen your puppy for any external parasites and recommend an appropriate procedure for effective control.
CONSIDER PET INSURANCE
Your dog will very likely get sick at some point – that’s life.
There is also a chance your dog will have an accident. That’s life, too.
You should know that nearly 70% of households in the U.S. own a pet – and that 1 in 3 of those pets will need emergency veterinary treatment every year.
For your information, the average cost of unexpected veterinary care for dogs is between $250 to $8,000.
Fortunately, a good pet insurance plan will cover most of the vet costs. Most pet insurance policies will reimburse up to 80% (some go up to 90%) of total vet expenses after deductibles.
This is why we recommend that you consider good pet insurance for your doggy.
Pet Insurance is designed to reimburse you for unexpected veterinary expenses and related fees. This will give you peace of mind and protect your savings.
This is why selecting the right pet insurance for your dog is so critical.
We’ve reviewed each pet insurance based on customer reviews, affordability, and other important factors.
Here are our recommendations for the best pet insurance for your dog:
Best Overall
Healthy Paws
Best Value
Lemonade
Best Personalized Plan
Spot Pet Insurance
Best Pre-Existing Condition
Embrace
CONCLUSION
Your puppy needs your love.
But your puppy also needs essential supplies.
This is why we created this New Puppy Checklist.
This checklist covers everything your puppy needs – so it can become the best it can ever be!
- Food & treats
- Bowl & feeder
- Crate & pen
- Bed
- Toys
- Collar & leash
- Grooming gear
- Dental care tools
- Pooping bags and more
- Vet and pet insurance advice
DOG TRAINING COLLARS CAN REALLY HELP
So you should know:
- Key benefits of dog training collars
- Are there any risks?
- Best dog training collars for your dog
Check here to quickly find out…
Getting the right advice is essential for your pet’s health and happiness. But with so many pet guides available on the internet, it can be challenging to know which advice is the best for your pet. This is where we come in. To help you find the best advice for your pet, we follow a strict set of criteria. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions of professional zoologists and pet experts, and extensive personal experience.
Check out our Editorial Process for details on how we research and review pet products and topics.
And don’t forget to visit our About page for more details about our editorial team.
This article is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge. It is not meant to substitute for diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, prescription, or formal and individualized advice from a veterinary medical professional. Animals exhibiting signs and symptoms of illness, pain, or distress should be seen by a veterinarian immediately.