Getting a puppy is exciting. It’s exciting for you, it’s exciting for the entire family. But, there are a lot of things to consider and add to your puppy list before and after your puppy comes home.
Puppies, just like babies, need a lot of stuff. From food and water bowls to the proper food and dog shampoo. Being prepared means you’ll have more time to get to know your puppy. Moreover, having your puppy list before you bring your puppy home will allow you to do things like training and establishing sleep habits properly.
Pups, whether mature ones or babies are naturally curious. One of the first things you’ll need to do is puppy-proof your home. But that is just the start. If you’re welcoming home your first puppy, this puppy list can help prepare you for its arrival.
Things to Consider Before Adopting a Puppy
The wonderful experience of adopting a puppy is a big decision and one that is not to be taken lightly. Before you make that decision, you need to be aware of the many responsibilities you’ll have, such as:
- Cost. Puppies come with many costs. You need to make sure you have the budget for all of them. From insurance, vet bills, and food, to ongoing costs like toys, poop bags, and hygiene products and medications. Raising a puppy is a big responsibility, not just emotionally, but financially as well.
- Lifestyle. Do you have enough time to raise a puppy? Is your home appropriate and secure for a dog? Puppies need daily exercise, which means time for training and proper exercise is a must. Furthermore, puppies need emotional support as well, which means spending a lot of time with your pup.
- Vets. You need to make sure there are vets nearby. Your puppy should be seen by a vet shortly after you bring it home. Look for a licensed vet in your area, for standard checkups, vaccinations, and anything in between. You can never be too safe.
- Find the Right Puppy. Some breeds might be a better fit than others. Depending on where you live, and the time you have on your hands, the size of the puppy is important. Apart from this, do you want a hyperactive dog or a lazier one, do you want a furry or a low-shedding dog? Lots of things to consider.
- Dog Trainer. Having a training plan is always a good idea. Before you bring your pup home, figure out whether you are going to do the training yourself, or a certified dog trainer.
20 Things to Include in Your Personal Puppy List When Planning to Get a New Puppy
Dog Crate and Playpen
New pups need training, and crate training is one of the most effective training methods. Dog crates are great for whenever you can’t supervise them as well. With the proper dog crate, your pup will be confined to an area where accidents are contained. Moreover, the playpen can also be a safe place where your pup wouldn’t chew on things it shouldn’t.
Dog Toys and Chews
Your puppy list won’t be complete without a variety of dog toys and chews. These toys will help a lot when your puppy starts teething and starts chewing on anything it can get a hold of. Toys are also a great way to keep your pup entertained and engaged both physically and mentally.
Leash and Collar
The collar and leash are more than just aesthetics. For safe and enjoyable walks, and successful training sessions, choosing the correct collar is important. Aim for an adjustable collar. Moreover, make sure the collar and leash combination are sturdy and reliable. You don’t want your pup to run away on your first walk.
Food and Treats
Puppies need proper nutrition in order to grow. Be sure to have the proper food for its age, size, and breed. For example, larger breeds are going to need a different type of food than smaller breeds. Puppy treats also play a big role in training your pup. Hard or soft, high or low in calories, big or small, make sure you get the proper treats on your puppy list.
Puppy Pee Pads
Training your pup to potty outside should be a priority. However, outside training is not always an option, especially if you live in an apartment. Therefore, grass pee pads, as well as washable pee pads, disposable pee pads, or scented pee pads should be on your puppy list.
Additional items you should add to your checklist:
- Food and Water Bowls
- Cleaning Products and Grooming Tools
- Blankets
- Dog Bed
- Poop Bags
- Nametags
- Stain and Odor Remover
- Gate
- Food Containers
- Car Restraint
Conclusion
The first few months with a new pup will be incredibly fun, exciting, and joyful. However, to be truly prepared, you need to be ready before you bring your pup home. And with this checklist, you are going to be more than prepared to welcome a pup into your home. Although you won’t need everything on this puppy list, it always better to be aware of the things you’ll need as your puppy grows.