Bringing home a puppy is exciting, but the first weeks go much more smoothly when you are prepared. This new puppy checklist covers the supplies, vet care, routines and training basics you need so your puppy settles in safely and happily.
Before Your Puppy Comes Home
Puppy-proof your home
Puppies explore with their mouths. Hide electrical cords, store shoes and household chemicals out of reach, and check that houseplants are not toxic. Block off stairs and any rooms you do not want your puppy to enter.
Shopping list
- Puppy food (ask the breeder or shelter what your puppy currently eats)
- Food and water bowls
- Collar or harness with an ID tag, and a lightweight leash
- A crate and a comfortable bed. See our dog crate buying guide and dog bed buying guide
- Safe chew toys and a few puzzle toys
- Puppy-safe shampoo, brush and nail clippers
- Waste bags, enzyme cleaner for accidents and puppy pads if needed
The First Day
Keep the first day calm. Let your puppy explore, show them where to sleep and where to go to the toilet. Limit visitors, because puppies are easily overwhelmed. Expect some whining at night, since everything is new.
Book a Vet Visit
Schedule a check-up within the first few days. Your vet will examine your puppy, discuss vaccinations, parasite prevention and neutering or spaying, and answer your questions. Bring any paperwork from the breeder or shelter.
Feeding Your Puppy
Puppies need a diet made for growth, usually fed in several small meals a day. Keep to the food your puppy is used to at first, and change it gradually if needed. Read our guides on how to read a dog food label and how much to feed your dog.
House Training
- Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after meals, after naps, after play and before bed.
- Use the same spot and a cue word, and reward right after they finish.
- Supervise indoors and watch for signs like sniffing and circling.
- Clean accidents with an enzyme cleaner and never punish your puppy.
Crate Training and Sleep
A crate can give your puppy a safe resting place and help with house training. Introduce it gradually with treats and short sessions. Our guide to how to crate train a puppy has a full plan.
Socialization and Training
The early weeks are the best time to introduce your puppy to new people, sounds, surfaces and gentle experiences. Keep things positive and go at your puppy’s pace, and follow your vet’s advice on when it is safe to meet other dogs and go to public places before vaccinations are complete. Start simple training with our basic dog training commands.
Playtime and Chewing
Puppies need plenty of play, but also plenty of sleep. Offer safe toys, and redirect chewing from furniture to toys. Rotate toys to keep things interesting.
Your First-Week Checklist
- Puppy-proof the home and set up a sleeping area
- Buy food, bowls, collar, leash, crate and toys
- Book your first vet visit
- Set a feeding and toilet routine
- Begin gentle socialization and training
- Arrange identification, such as an ID tag and microchip, and register your dog where required
Frequently Asked Questions
How much sleep does a puppy need?
Many puppies sleep a large part of the day. Make sure they have a quiet place to rest and do not wake them for play.
When can my puppy go for walks?
Ask your vet. Timing depends on the vaccination schedule in your area.
Which breed is right for me?
If you have not chosen yet, see how to choose the right dog breed.
Related Reading
- How to Crate Train a Puppy: Step-by-Step Guide
- Dog Crate Buying Guide: Types, Sizes and Features
- How Much to Feed Your Dog: A Simple Portion Guide
For more puppy resources, visit the American Kennel Club.
Shopping Shortlist: New Puppy Basics
Affiliate links: as an Amazon Associate, PetBoo earns from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Already have a dog at home? Follow our step-by-step plan to introduce a puppy to an older dog.