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# New Puppy Checklist

By [Jocey (@joceygm)](https://listium.com/@joceygm)

552 views · 1 like  
Published 29 December 2020 · Updated 29 December 2020

Category: pets / dogs

An inclusive checklist for bringing home a new puppy (straight from the mouth of a dog bather, vet tech student, and dog lover all in one). I linked many informational articles as to why you need these things, and what considerations you should make when choosing your new puppy supplies.

## Items

### 1. [Crate](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/0/crate)

Item ID: `0`

- Category: Comfort
- Purchased: false
- Notes: When selecting a crate for any dog, a size should be chosen that allows the dog to stand, turn around, and lay down without being cramped by the cage dimensions. If you are getting your dog as a puppy and do not want to purchase more crates as the dog ages, buy a crate that will fit their adult size (most crates come with dividers that you can move as the puppy grows). I will link an article talking about the importance of crate training.
- Links: [https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-crate-training-is-great-for-your-dog/](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/training/why-crate-training-is-great-for-your-dog/)

### 2. [Crate Mat](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/1/crate-mat)

Item ID: `1`

- Category: Comfort
- Purchased: false
- Notes: A lot of times, crate mats are made in the same dimensions as standard crates, which makes it easy to find one that fits in your crate. The crate mat should be durable against puppy chewing and messes. A washable crate mat is a musts because potty training your puppy won't be without accidents.
- Links: -

### 3. [Dog Bed](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/2/dog-bed)

Item ID: `2`

- Category: Comfort
- Purchased: false
- Notes: A dog bed in addition to the crate is comforting for your new puppy. It should be placed in a common area of the house where a watchful eye can be kept on the puppy at all times. Chewing or destroying the dog bed should be discouraged, and a toy should be used as a distraction and redirection of the puppy's urge to chew.
- Links: -

### 4. [Coat Appropriate Brush](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/3/coat-appropriate-brush)

Item ID: `3`

- Category: Supplies
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Grooming is one of the most important things to consider when getting a new puppy. Each coat type is unique and requires specific care. Short coated dogs (like labs, great danes, chihuahuas, etc.) should be brushed weekly with a rubber curry type brush (such as the ZoomGroom) or a shedding blade. Double coated dogs (like golden retrievers, huskies, shetland sheepdogs, etc.) should be brushed twice weekly and undercoat with a combination of slicker brushes, greyhound combs, undercoat rakes, and FURminator brushes. These brushing sessions should remove any tangles and help remove the shedding undercoat of your dog. Long haired dogs (like poodles, doodles, portuguese water dogs, etc.) should also be brushed biweekly with a slicker brush and greyhound comb. Since these dogs do not routinely shed like double-coated dogs, the undercoat rake and FURminator are unnecessary. Keeping your dog tangle-free and well-brushed helps avoid injuries mats can create (like hematomas, increased risk of clipper burn, or pain while moving). I will link an article about at home grooming practices.
- Links: [https://www.dfordog.co.uk/blog/the-best-dog-brush-for-your-dog.html](https://www.dfordog.co.uk/blog/the-best-dog-brush-for-your-dog.html)

### 5. [Puppy Shampoo and Conditioner](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/4/puppy-shampoo-and-conditioner)

Item ID: `4`

- Category: Supplies
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Most dog shampoo brands offer a puppy-friendly version of their product. It is important not to use products meant for humans or dish soap because these products can dry out and irritate a dog's skin. While puppies do not require baths very often, it is a good idea to get your puppy used to the sensations a bath creates. A dog that is easy to bathe makes your life easier in the long run. In general (unless your dog gets especially dirty and gross) dogs should only need baths around every 6-8 weeks. It is important not to bathe a dog too often as that runs the risk of drying out the animal's skin. Cologne meant for dogs and finishing spray can be used after baths or in between to freshen your pup's scent.
- Links: -

### 6. [Puppy Friendly Toothpaste and Toothbrush](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/5/puppy-friendly-toothpaste-and-toothbrush)

Item ID: `5`

- Category: Supplies
- Purchased: false
- Notes: While it may seem silly to brush a puppy's teeth at such a young age, it is important on many levels that you start healthy dental practices young. In canine dentistry, the only real care is preventative care. Getting your puppy used to having their teeth brushed and continuing that brushing (with a CET certified toothpaste) benefit your dog in many ways. Dogs with clean mouths live longer than those with dental neglect, as bacteria buildup in the mouth can start to affect the heart and lungs of your animal. This also benefits you as it prevents "doggie breath" that you usually see in older dogs. I will link an article about the importance of teeth brushing in dogs and how to introduce your puppy to it.
- Links: [https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/brushing-teeth-in-dogs](https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/brushing-teeth-in-dogs)

### 7. [Nail Trimmers](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/6/nail-trimmers)

Item ID: `6`

- Category: Supplies
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Nail trimming can seem scary, but it is very important that your puppy get used to having their nails trimmed. Keeping your puppy's nails short helps give them traction and walk normally. Nail trimmers come in two styles, guillotine and scissor. I have found that it is easier to see what you are trimming with the scissor style, and they have lasted longer. When clipping a dog's nails, it is important to avoid the blood vessel in the nails, or the "quick." Cutting too far can result in bleeding, but it is nothing too serious. Using dipstick powder or kwik-stop as a clotting agent will stop the bleeding quickly and help the toe heal. Of course, if the toe continues to bleed without stopping even after a clotting agent is applied, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care. If the thought of possibly making your dog bleed is too much for you, you may want to invest in a wireless dremel nail grinder. I prefer using these, as it helps you get the nails a lot shorter and smoother without causing any bleeding. With either of these options, it is always important to desensitize a new puppy to having their feet messed with and nails trimmed. I will link an article about trimming your dogs nails at home.
- Links: [https://thebark.com/content/how-trim-your-dogs-nails](https://thebark.com/content/how-trim-your-dogs-nails)

### 8. [Puppy Gate](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/7/puppy-gate)

Item ID: `7`

- Category: Supplies
- Purchased: false
- Notes: This is one of the most important tools to keep your puppy out of trouble. Your puppy will probably need constant supervision while they are out of their crate until they are seven or eight months old. Blocking them in an area that you can keep them out of trouble is very useful in both potty training and manners.
- Links: -

### 9. [Puppy Food](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/8/puppy-food)

Item ID: `8`

- Category: Food and Treats
- Purchased: false
- Notes: You should get some of the food that your puppy is currently eating as well as whatever you want to transition them to (if you decide to transition). Transitioning food gradually will prevent upset stomachs. I will link an article about how to transition foods with a dog.
- Links: [https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/right-way-switch-dog-foods/](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/right-way-switch-dog-foods/)

### 10. [Food and Water Bowls](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/9/food-and-water-bowls)

Item ID: `9`

- Category: Food and Treats
- Purchased: false
- Notes: This is pretty straightforward. Any old bowls will do. Your dog should have access to clean water at all times in and out of their crate, so a bowl that mounts to the side of the crate can be useful in preventing spills inside the crate. If you have a large breed puppy ,you may want to consider getting larger bowls than you need right now so you won't have to find bigger bowls when your dog is an adult and eats much more food. Follow the directions on the label of whatever dog food you are feeding to decide how much you are feeding your dog a day. Puppies under six months do well with three meals a day, while puppies six months and up can transition to two meals a day.
- Links: -

### 11. [Dental Treats](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/10/dental-treats)

Item ID: `10`

- Category: Food and Treats
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Along with routine tooth brushing with CET certified toothpaste, occasionally giving VOHC accepted dental chews helps keep your dog's mouth clean. I will link a list of VOHC accepted dental chews.
- Links: [http://www.vohc.org/VOHCAcceptedProductsTable\_Dogs.pdf](http://www.vohc.org/VOHCAcceptedProductsTable_Dogs.pdf)

### 12. [Puppy Safe Chews](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/11/puppy-safe-chews)

Item ID: `11`

- Category: Food and Treats
- Purchased: false
- Notes: In addition to chews meant to keep mouths clean, chews can be a good distraction if a puppy is being too rambunctious or is fussing in their crate. It is important to avoid rawide chews, as there are many cases of choking and intestinal blockages from rawhide. There are many alternatives though, including bully sticks (tried and true in our household), bones (raw or smoked ONLY, no cooked bones as they can splinter), lambs horns, smoked pig ears, beef trachea, and many more. A lot of times smoked bones, ears, and tracheas can be sourced from a locally owned (mom and pop) pet store, and smell like smoked meat.
- Links: -

### 13. [Puppy Training/Socializing Classes](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/12/puppy-trainingsocializing-classes)

Item ID: `12`

- Category: Training
- Purchased: false
- Notes: It is important to give your puppy the best chance at being a well mannered and socialized adult. A lot of times this includes a puppy class. They are offered at almost every Petsmart/Petco and local training business. It is important that your dog gets their first rounds of puppy shots before interacting with any other dogs, to avoid the risk of diseases like parvo, distemper, etc.
- Links: -

### 14. [Training Treats](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/13/training-treats)

Item ID: `13`

- Category: Training
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Training treats should be small and "high value" to keep your dog interested in you and the reward.
- Links: -

### 15. [Clicker](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/14/clicker)

Item ID: `14`

- Category: Training
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Clickers are optional, but using a signal such as a clicker or a routine "yes" along with a treat can help you wean off of using treats with your dog.
- Links: -

### 16. [Potty Bells](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/25/potty-bells)

Item ID: `25`

- Category: Training
- Purchased: false
- Notes: I have found these super helpful during puppy potty training. Basically, they function as a relatively quiet but definitive way for your puppy to tell you that they need to go outside. I will link an article about how to use potty bells.
- Links: [http://akc.org/expert-advice/training/teach-dog-ring-bell-go-outside/](http://akc.org/expert-advice/training/teach-dog-ring-bell-go-outside/)

### 17. [Collar](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/15/collar)

Item ID: `15`

- Category: Equipment
- Purchased: false
- Notes: You will most likely have to buy multiple collars as your puppy grows. Two fingers should easily fit in between the dog's neck and the collar. I will link an article about how to correctly size your puppy's collar.
- Links: [https://www.petful.com/pet-products/choose-right-size-dog-collar/](https://www.petful.com/pet-products/choose-right-size-dog-collar/)

### 18. [Harness](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/16/harness)

Item ID: `16`

- Category: Equipment
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Just like collars, you will probably have to buy multiple harnesses for your puppy. I find that harnesses can help with leash training, as your puppy can not choke themselves on their collar. I also find that a well fitted harness is harder to escape from than a collar. There are many styles of harness available. I prefer the style that slides over the neck and buckles on both sides, but I encourage you to try multiple styles on at a local pet store to find what is right for you.
- Links: -

### 19. [Identification Tags](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/17/identification-tags)

Item ID: `17`

- Category: Equipment
- Purchased: false
- Notes: These are important because it will help your puppy find its way back home if it happens to escape. Even if your dog has a registered microchip, having an identification tag with your contact information makes the return of your dog much faster, as they will not have to go to a shelter or vet that has a microchip reader.
- Links: -

### 20. [Walking Leash](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/18/walking-leash)

Item ID: `18`

- Category: Equipment
- Purchased: false
- Notes: This is the first of three leashes on this list, which may seem excessive, but I will explain the function of each one. This leash has the most obvious function. This will be the one that you will use when taking your dog out and about. This leash should be 4-6 feet in length and a sturdy enough material to successfully contain your dog. This leash should NOT be a retractable leash. Retractable leashes do not give you any control over your puppy, which is very dangerous if they were ever in a situation you had to remove them from quickly. I will link an article about the dangers of retractable leashes.
- Links: [https://www.rover.com/blog/the-hidden-dangers-of-retractable-leashes/](https://www.rover.com/blog/the-hidden-dangers-of-retractable-leashes/)

### 21. [House Line](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/19/house-line)

Item ID: `19`

- Category: Equipment
- Purchased: false
- Notes: This leash can be a little longer (up to 8 feet) and also a nylon leash like the walking leash. This one will be worn by your puppy for the first six months or so of their life constantly in the house. You will want to remove the loop at the end of the leash to prevent your puppy from getting caught on something in the house. This leash will alow you to quickly remove your puppy from a situation where they are doing something "naughty" like chewing, scratching, etc. without making it a game of chase. I will link an article about house lines and how to use them.
- Links: -

### 22. [Long Line](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/20/long-line)

Item ID: `20`

- Category: Equipment
- Purchased: false
- Notes: This leash should be 20-30 feet in length and will be used for any "off-leash" work with your puppy. These are useful to wear when in the backyard or another outdoor location that you want your puppy to be able to run freely but still have control of them if necessary.
- Links: -

### 23. [Spay/Neuter](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/21/spayneuter)

Item ID: `21`

- Category: Veterinary Concerns
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Getting your puppy fixed is one of the most important thing you will do for your dog. It is debated whether it is best to get them fixed before or after puberty, but I find the argument to get them fixed early much more sound. Most vets recommend getting a puppy spayed or neutered between four and six months. In female dogs, spaying them early will eliminate the risk of ovarian cancers and cysts, and lessen the risk of mammary cancer. In male dogs, neutering them early will prevents testicular cancer and lessens the risk of some prostate diseases. In addition to the health benefits, fixing your puppy will help prevent behaviors that are undesirable in your pet. Females won't go into heat, which means you won't have to deal with the vaginal discharge that can last up to two weeks. Males are less likely to display behaviors such as marking (peeing on anything and everything), humping (anything a everything), and dominance behaviors such as aggression. On its base level, fixing your animal will prevent more puppies from entering your community. Shelters are already bursting with dogs of every shape size and color. Even if you think it would be cute to see your dog's puppies, it is more important to the health and happiness of your dog that they are fixed as recommended by breeders, shelters, and veterinarians. I will link an article about the importance of spaying/neutering your puppy.
- Links: [https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/spayneuter-your-pet#:~:text=Spaying%20helps%20prevent%20uterine%20infections,cancer%20and%20some%20prostate%20problems.](https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/spayneuter-your-pet#:~:text=Spaying%20helps%20prevent%20uterine%20infections,cancer%20and%20some%20prostate%20problems.)

### 24. [Microchip](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/22/microchip)

Item ID: `22`

- Category: Veterinary Concerns
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Getting a microchip for your dog is a relatively inexpensive way to ensure you will find your dog if they ever escape. Microchips are inserted under the skin between a dog's shoulder blades. They are about the size of a rain of rice and are usually inserted while the animal is under anesthesia for a spay or neuter (two birds, one stone) so it is not painful for the animal. After a microchip is administered, it needs to be registered with an online database. You should be given instructions on how to do that from whoever administers the microchip. A microchip provides a permanent way for your puppy to be identified and returned to you. I will link an article about microchips and how they work.
- Links: [https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/how-do-dog-microchips-work/#:~:text=A%20microchip%20is%20a%20radio,of%20a%20grain%20of%20rice.&text=The%20microchip%20is%20injected%20under,done%20in%20your%20vet's%20office.](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/how-do-dog-microchips-work/#:~:text=A%20microchip%20is%20a%20radio,of%20a%20grain%20of%20rice.&text=The%20microchip%20is%20injected%20under,done%20in%20your%20vet%27s%20office.)

### 25. [Puppy Shots](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/23/puppy-shots)

Item ID: `23`

- Category: Veterinary Concerns
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Vaccinations are important for both people and animals, especially for a puppy. If you want to be able to properly socialize your puppy, it is important that you don't have to worry about your dog catching a potentially deadly disease. On top of this, most grooming salons, doggie day-cares, and kennels require many (if not all) of the shots recommended by vets. Any vet clinic will be more than happy to help you through the process of scheduling all of your puppy shots and checkups. I will link a guide to the vaccinations your puppy will receive in the first year of its life.
- Links: [https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/puppy-shots-complete-guide/](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/puppy-shots-complete-guide/)

### 26. [Flea/Tick Preventative](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/24/fleatick-preventative)

Item ID: `24`

- Category: Veterinary Concerns
- Purchased: false
- Notes: Another important thing to start with your puppy is flea and tick preventative. Every dog and cat should be on a flea and tick preventative, regardless of lifestyle, age, or breed. Luckily, these preventatives come in tasty chewables that dogs will take just like treats or collars that can be work for months at a time. Preventing fleas and ticks stops your dog from getting diseases (such as Lyme's disease in ticks or an infectation of \*Dipylidium caninum\* from fleas). I will link an article about the importance of flea and tick preventative.
- Links: [https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/five-reasons-for-flea-prevention-products-this-summer/isnnot](https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/five-reasons-for-flea-prevention-products-this-summer/isnnot)

### 27. [Grooming](https://listium.com/@joceygm/53962/new-puppy-checklist/26/grooming)

Item ID: `26`

- Category: Veterinary Concerns
- Purchased: false
- Notes: This is not technically a veterinary concern, as many grooming salons function as standalone businesses, but it is worth including in considerations when getting a new puppy. If you are getting a puppy that has continuously growing hair (such as poodles, malteses, bichons, or cocker spaniels), odds are they are going to need routine haircuts to keep them comfortable and healthy. When getting one of these breeds, you must be willing to pay for a haircut every 4-6 weeks. These expenses can add up fast, and in addition to these expenses, you need to be willing to devote two or three brushing sessions a week to keep your dog free of tangles and mats. As someone who has worked in a grooming salon, I see so many people who let their dogs mat and then get them shaved every three months in a vicious cycle that is hard for both the groomer and the dog. I will link an informational article about matting.
- Links: [https://woofgangflemingisland.com/blog/what-your-groomer-wants-you-to-know-about-matting/#:~:text=Matting%20is%20a%20condition%20in,other%20health%20issues%20or%20parasites.&text=Some%20dogs%20have%20coats%20that,and%20more%20vulnerable%20to%20matting.](https://woofgangflemingisland.com/blog/what-your-groomer-wants-you-to-know-about-matting/#:~:text=Matting%20is%20a%20condition%20in,other%20health%20issues%20or%20parasites.&text=Some%20dogs%20have%20coats%20that,and%20more%20vulnerable%20to%20matting.)