Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but being unprepared can turn those first weeks into chaos! This comprehensive new puppy checklist covers every essential supply you’ll need, organized by category.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know:
✔ Absolute must-haves for day one
✔ Nice-to-have extras that make life easier
✔ Budget-friendly alternatives
✔ Pro tips from experienced dog owners
Let’s make sure you’re fully prepared for your furry bundle of joy!
The Ultimate New Puppy Checklist ✅
1. Feeding Essentials 🍽️
Must-Haves:
- Stainless steel or ceramic bowls (2+ sets) – $10-$30
- High-quality puppy food – $20-$80/month
- Treats for training – $10-$30
- Measuring cup – $5
Pro Tip:
“Elevated bowls can help large breed puppies eat more comfortably.” – Dr. Sarah Wooten, DVM
2. Sleeping & Comfort 🛏️
Must-Haves:
- Crate with divider – $40-$150
- Washable dog bed – $30-$100
- Blankets (avoid loose weave) – $15-$40
- Snuggle puppy (with heartbeat) – $30
Budget Tip:
Use old towels initially if your pup is prone to chewing!
Health & Grooming Supplies 🧴
Basic Care Essentials
| Item | Purpose | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Brush | Coat maintenance | $10-$30 |
| Dog shampoo | Gentle cleaning | $8-$20 |
| Nail clippers | Regular trims | $10-$25 |
| Toothbrush & paste | Dental care | $15-$30 |
| First-aid kit | Emergency prep | $25-$60 |
Vet Recommended:
“Start handling paws and mouth early to make grooming easier lifelong.”
Training & Behavior Tools 🎓
Essential Training Gear
Priority Items:
- 6-foot leash ($15-$40)
- Harness ($20-$50)
- Clicker ($5)
- Potty pads (if apartment training) ($15-$30)
- Enzyme cleaner ($10-$25)
Training Pro Tip:
“Rotate toys to keep them interesting and prevent boredom destruction.”
Puppy-Proofing Your Home 🛡️
Safety Must-Haves
- Baby gates – $20-$80
- Cable organizers – $10
- Bitter apple spray – $10
- Trash can with lid – $25+
Common Hazards to Remove:
✖ Electrical cords
✖ Toxic plants
✖ Small objects
Puppy Entertainment & Enrichment 🎾
Toy Types to Include:
- Chew toys (for teething)
- Interactive puzzles
- Tug toys
- Fetch toys
- Comfort toys
Recommended Brands:
- Kong
- Nylabone
- Outward Hound
First Vet Visit Prep 🩺
What to Bring:
- Vaccination records
- Stool sample
- List of questions
- Your puppy!
Average First-Year Vet Costs:
- Exams: $50-$100/visit
- Vaccines: $75-$300
- Spay/neuter: $200-$800
Budget Breakdown 💰
| Category | Low-End | High-End |
|---|---|---|
| Startup Costs | $500 | $2,500+ |
| Monthly Costs | $100 | $300+ |
Money-Saving Tips:
✔ Buy gently used crates
✔ Make DIY toys
✔ Compare pet insurance plans
One of the most important topics to discuss with your vet is the optimal time for spaying or neutering your puppy. The traditional age of six months is no longer a one-size-fits-all recommendation. Recent research shows that the ideal timing can vary significantly based on your dog’s breed, size, and gender, as it can impact their long-term health and development. To help you have an informed conversation with your vet, we’ve created a comprehensive guide that breaks down the latest research and recommendations for When to Spay/Neuter Your Puppy by Breed.
