New Puppy Checklist: The Essential First-Time Pet Parent Manual [2025]

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is both thrilling and overwhelming, especially when you're unsure what you actually need versus what pet stores want you to buy. The difference between a smooth transition and weeks of stress often comes down to having the right supplies ready and knowing what to expect during those crucial first days.

This comprehensive new puppy checklist walks you through essential preparations that will set both you and your puppy up for success, from scheduling veterinary care to creating safe spaces and establishing routines that work.

Use our puppy weight calculator to learn your dog’s specific needs as they grow.

Your complete new puppy checklist

Our new puppy checklist covers all the essentials you need to be a well-prepared pet parent and address your puppy's immediate health, safety, and comfort needs. Each plays a crucial role in helping your new companion adjust to their forever home while establishing healthy habits from day one.

1. Schedule your first vet visit early

Book your puppy's first veterinary appointment within 48-72 hours of bringing them home, even if they appear healthy. This first visit establishes a baseline for their health records and ensures your puppy receives the vaccines and preventive care they need.

During this visit, your vet will perform a comprehensive physical exam, discuss vaccination schedules, and address any concerns about your puppy's health or behavior. They'll also offer advice on spaying or neutering, parasite prevention, and nutrition specific to your puppy's breed and size.

Research local 24-hour emergency veterinary clinics and keep their contact information easily accessible. Puppies are naturally curious and accidents can happen, so knowing where to go in an emergency will give you peace of mind.

Dutch offers same-day video appointments with licensed veterinarians, making it easy to get expert advice without the stress of travel. Join Dutch to access online vet care and prescriptions for your pet.

2. Choose puppy food and treats

Select a high-quality puppy food specifically formulated for your dog's expected adult size (small vs. large breed). Puppy formulas contain higher protein and fat content to support rapid growth and development during the first year, and puppies eight to 12 weeks old need four meals a day to maintain their energy levels.

Stick with the same food your puppy ate at the breeder or shelter for at least the first week to avoid digestive upset. If you need to switch foods, do so gradually over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old food.

Choose training treats that meet these criteria:

• Small and soft: Easy for puppies to chew and swallow quickly

• Highly motivating: Something your puppy finds irresistible

• Appropriately sized: Won't pose choking hazards for small mouths

3. Set up a dedicated area for food and hydration

Create a quiet feeding area away from high-traffic zones where your puppy can eat without distractions or competition. Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls that are appropriately sized for your puppy's breed and age.

Consider raised feeding stations for larger breed puppies so they don’t have to crane their necks too far down to eat, promoting better posture and digestion as they grow. Place food and water bowls on an easy-to-clean surface like a feeding mat to contain spills and protect your floors.

Provide fresh water at all times in a clean bowl, checking and refilling it throughout the day. Puppies drink more water relative to their body weight than adult dogs and can become dehydrated quickly.

4. Creating a comfortable and safe environment

Puppy-proofing your home requires removing or securing potential hazards like electrical cords, toxic plants, small objects that could be swallowed, and household chemicals. Get down to your puppy's eye level to spot dangers you might miss from standing height.

Install baby gates to restrict access to certain areas and create safe spaces where your puppy can explore freely. Remove valuable or fragile items from low shelves and secure cabinet doors that contain cleaning supplies or medications.

Set up a cozy sleeping area with washable bedding that’s a good size for your growing puppy. Choose materials that won't pose choking hazards if chewed and avoid anything with loose strings or small parts.

Puppy-proofing pro tip: Puppies explore the world with their mouths, so assume anything within reach will be chewed or swallowed. When in doubt, put it away or block access to it.

5. Prepare your housetraining techniques

Establish a consistent schedule for feeding, watering, and potty breaks to help your puppy learn when and where to go to the bathroom. Take your puppy outside first thing in the morning, after meals, naps, and play sessions and right before bed.

Choose a designated potty spot in your yard and take your puppy there every time they go outside. Use a specific command like "go potty" and reward them immediately with praise and treats when they go to the bathroom in the correct spot.

Supervise your puppy constantly when they're not crated and watch for signs they need to go out, such as sniffing, circling, whining, or hovering near the door. Most puppies can hold their bladder for about one hour per month of age, plus one additional hour. Here’s a quick breakdown of how long puppies can wait to go to the bathroom based on their age:

• 2 months old: Approximately 3 hours

• 3 months old: Approximately 4 hours

• 4 months old: Approximately 5 hours

• 5 months old: Approximately 6 hours

• 6 months old: Approximately 7 hours

• 7 months and older: Approximately 8 hours

Keep in mind that individual factors such as breed, size, and health can influence your puppy's bladder control. It's essential to provide regular potty breaks to prevent accidents and promote healthy habits.

6. Have cleaning products ready

Stock up on enzymatic cleaners specifically designed for pet accidents, as these break down odor-causing compounds that regular cleaners leave behind. Avoid ammonia-based cleaners, which can actually attract dogs back to the same spot.

Essential cleaning supplies include:

• Paper towels and disposable gloves for quick cleanup

• Plastic bags for waste disposal

• Waterproof furniture covers or washable rugs

• Backup supplies in multiple spots in your home

The faster you clean up messes, the less likely your puppy is to return to that spot.

7. Research basic training and socialization methods

Enroll in a puppy kindergarten class or basic obedience training within the first few weeks of bringing your puppy home. Early socialization and training during the critical period (3-14 weeks) shapes your puppy's future behavior and confidence.

Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come using positive reinforcement methods. Keep training sessions short (5-10 minutes) and frequent throughout the day to match your puppy's attention span.

Expose your puppy to various people, animals, sounds, and environments in a controlled, positive way, like taking your pup to visit friends and family who know how to interact with dogs. Two weeks after their vaccines are complete, you can also take them to a dog park or out on walks. Proper socialization helps prevent fear-based behaviors so your puppy can become a well-adjusted adult dog.

8. Determine your puppy's exercise needs

Research your puppy's breed-specific exercise requirements and energy levels to plan appropriate activities. High-energy breeds like Border Collies, for example, need more mental and physical stimulation than lower-energy breeds like Bulldogs.

Avoid strenuous exercise like long runs or hikes until your puppy's growth plates close (typically 12-18 months depending on their size). Short walks, gentle play sessions, and mental stimulation are more appropriate for growing puppies.

Plan for multiple short play sessions throughout the day rather than one long exercise period. Puppies tire quickly but also recover fast, so they often prefer frequent, short bursts of activity.

9. Buy dog toys for mental stimulation

Select a variety of toys that serve different purposes, like chew toys for teething, puzzle toys for mental stimulation, and interactive toys for bonding and training. Rotate them regularly to maintain your puppy's interest and prevent boredom.

Choose size-appropriate toys that can't be swallowed whole and inspect them regularly for damage. Replace worn toys immediately to prevent choking hazards from small pieces.

Puppies need to chew to relieve teething discomfort and explore their environment. Chew toys can help redirect destructive chewing behavior away from your belongings, but look for puppy teething toys specifically made to help relieve gum pain. 

10. Create boundaries with bedding, crates, and gates

Introduce crate training gradually, making the crate a positive space with comfortable bedding, toys, and treats. Crates provide security and help with housetraining by using dogs' natural instinct to keep their sleeping area clean. A properly sized crate should allow your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without being so large they can go to the bathroom in one corner. Never use the crate as punishment — it should be your puppy's safe haven.

Use baby gates to create safe zones outside of the crate and gradually expand your puppy's access to different areas of your home as they prove themselves trustworthy. This avoids overwhelming your puppy while protecting your belongings. Putting comfortable beds or blankets in their favorite areas will help them feel cozy and safe in their zones, and washable bedding will make cleanup easier for you during house training.

11. Get puppy travel essentials

Invest in a properly fitted harness or collar with ID tags containing your contact information. Start leash training early with short, positive sessions to build your puppy's confidence and skills. You’ll also need a car safety harness or travel crate to keep your puppy secure during car rides. Never allow puppies to ride loose in vehicles, as this poses serious safety risks in case of accidents or sudden stops.

Whenever you’re on the road, pack a travel kit with essentials like water, food, bowls, waste bags, and comfort items like favorite toys or blankets for longer trips. Having familiar items helps reduce stress in new environments.

12. Learn grooming and health maintenance requirements

Research your puppy's breed-specific grooming needs and start training them to be comfy with grooming early. You can do this by touching your puppy's paws, ears, and mouth regularly to build tolerance for necessary care.

You’ll need a few basic grooming supplies, including:

• Brush appropriate for coat type: Slicker brushes for longer coats, bristle brushes for short coats

• Nail clippers designed for puppies: Guillotine or scissor-type clippers

• Dog-safe shampoo: Gentle formulas designed for puppy skin

• Toothbrush and dog toothpaste: Dog-specific toothpaste and brushes

Build into your weekly care routine checks of your puppy’s ears, teeth, and nails. Early detection of health issues leads to more successful treatment outcomes, and regular checks will build familiarity so you notice differences that may indicate a larger problem.

13. Gather ID cards and paperwork in one place

Create a dedicated file for all your puppy's important documents, including vaccination records, registration papers, health certificates, and microchip information. Keep copies in both physical and digital formats for easy access.

Take clear photos of your puppy from multiple angles and update them regularly as your puppy grows. These photos are crucial if your puppy is ever lost.

Research pet insurance options and consider enrolling while your puppy is young and healthy. Many policies exclude pre-existing conditions, so early enrollment provides the most comprehensive coverage. 

Dutch offers a comprehensive pet insurance plan that combines unlimited virtual veterinary care with $10,000 in annual emergency coverage, all starting at $24 per month for dogs and $21 for cats. This plan gives you same-day access to licensed vets, free prescription delivery, and the flexibility to use emergency funds at any U.S. veterinary clinic without pre-approval.

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Tips for your new puppy's first year

The first year with your puppy sets the foundation for a lifetime of companionship and good behavior. These practical tips help navigate common challenges and create positive experiences for both you and your new family member.

Your puppy's success depends on consistency and patience during this crucial development period:

• Prepare the night before pickup: Set up your puppy's space, prepare meals, and remove hazards so you can focus entirely on helping your puppy settle in

• Be patient: Expect accidents, chewed items, and sleepless nights — these are normal parts of puppyhood that improve with time and consistent training

• Build a routine: Puppies thrive on predictability, so establish consistent schedules for feeding, potty breaks, play time, and sleep

• Use calming products: Consider anxiety-reducing items like pheromone diffusers or calming music to help your puppy adjust to their new environment

• Be consistent with training: Use the same commands and rules throughout your household so your puppy doesn't receive mixed messages about expectations

• Set boundaries: Establish house rules early and enforce them consistently — it's easier to prevent bad habits than to break them later

• Socialize your puppy: Expose your puppy to new experiences, people, and environments during the critical socialization period (before 16 weeks of age)

• Give them space: Puppies need 18-20 hours of sleep per day, so provide quiet spaces where they can rest undisturbed

• Consider professional training classes: Group classes provide structured socialization opportunities and professional guidance for common puppy challenges

New puppy shopping checklist

Having the right supplies ready before your puppy arrives reduces stress and ensures you can meet their immediate needs. This comprehensive shopping list covers everything from basic necessities to helpful extras that make puppy parenting easier.

Food and feeding supplies:

• High-quality puppy food appropriate for expected adult weight

• Food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic)

• Measuring cup for consistent portions

• Food storage container

• High-value, puppy-safe training treats

Safety and containment:

• Properly fitted collar with ID tags

• 6-foot leash for training and walks

• Crate sized appropriately for adult size

• Baby gates for restricting access around the house

• Car safety harness or travel crate

Comfort and bedding:

• Washable crate pad or blanket

• Comfortable bed for main living area

• Extra blankets for various rooms

• Crate cover for creating a den-like environment

Toys and enrichment:

• Variety of chew toys for teething

• Interactive puzzle toys for mental stimulation

• Soft comfort toy for comfort

• Rope toys for interactive play

• Tennis balls or fetch toys

Grooming and health:

• Brush appropriate for coat type

• Dog-safe shampoo and conditioner

• Nail clippers designed for puppies

• Dog dental products like toothbrush and toothpaste

• First aid kit with basic supplies

Cleaning supplies:

• Enzymatic cleaner for accidents

• Paper towels and disposable gloves

• Waste bags for walks and cleanup

• Stain and odor remover

• Disinfectant safe for pets

Welcome your new puppy home with confidence

Bringing home a new puppy marks the beginning of an incredible journey filled with love, laughter, and learning experiences. Effective preparation will help you provide the best possible start for your furry family member.

Remember that every puppy is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Stay flexible, patient, and consistent as you both navigate this exciting transition period together.

Having access to professional veterinary guidance makes the journey smoother and less stressful for new puppy parents. The online vets at Dutch understand the unique challenges of puppyhood and provide expert support through convenient telehealth appointments, helping you address concerns quickly and affordably from the comfort of your home.

Establishing care with an online vet early makes life easier for both you and your new puppy. Dutch lets you connect with licensed veterinarians from home, avoiding stressful trips to the clinic while still getting expert guidance on vaccinations, behavior, nutrition, and routine health questions, making puppyhood smoother and more enjoyable.

Get started today—create your Dutch account and give your puppy convenient, expert care from home.

New puppy checklist FAQs

Where should my new puppy sleep on the first night?

Your puppy should sleep in a crate or confined area near your bedroom so they feel secure while learning house rules. Place comfortable bedding and a favorite toy in their sleeping space to help them settle.

What is the rule of three for a new puppy?

The rule of three suggests puppies need about three days to decompress after moving in, three weeks to learn routines, and three months to fully settle into their new home. This timeline helps set realistic expectations for the adjustment period.

What is the 10-10-10 rule for puppy training?

The 10-10-10 rule involves 10 minutes of training, 10 minutes of play, and 10 minutes of rest, repeated throughout the day to match a puppy's short attention span. This approach prevents overstimulation and maximizes learning opportunities.

What should I do with my puppy in the first 48 hours?

Focus on helping your puppy settle in by maintaining calm energy, establishing basic routines for feeding and potty breaks, and scheduling that crucial first veterinary appointment. It’s important to avoid overwhelming your puppy with too many new experiences during this adjustment period, and the vets at Dutch can help you do just that. They can guide you through your puppy’s first vaccinations, answer questions about behavior or nutrition, and provide reassurance on any health concerns — all from the comfort of your home. 

Early support helps your puppy build confidence and sets the stage for a happy, healthy life. Register with Dutch today to help your puppy feel their best as they grow.