Puppy Shopping List
When you bring your new puppy home, you’ll need some basic supplies. Below are our recommendations. You won't need all these items immediately, but you'll probably want to get them all eventually.
You may also want to learn more about our puppy care or adopting a puppy. ___________________________________________________________________
Kennel: If you purchase one sized for your puppy now, you’ll need to buy another one as s/he grows. If you buy an adult-sized kennel, you may need to partition it for a few months to fit your pup.
Kennel Blankets or Pads: These come in all kinds. The best ones for puppies are thin, inexpensive and easy to wash. You may choose to use old towels at first. Our puppies begin going potty outside their sleeping area at about 5 weeks, but every pup in a new environment may have accidents in his/her kennel. So it’s best to have 5-6 kennel blankets on hand for quick changes, especially at night.
Puppy Pads: These pads can help with housebreaking. They have a water-proof backing and contain hormones that encourage your puppy to eliminate on them. You’ll never want to put one of these pads inside your puppy’s kennel.
Leash, Collar & Harness: You should get your puppy familiar with a collar right away. A good first leash is usually short. For leash training our puppies, we recommend using a harness. It’s more comfortable, and it will protect your puppy’s small neck. If you buy an adjustable one, it can grow with your puppy.
I.D. Tags: Tags will help your puppy get returned to you if lost. We also recommend getting your dog microchipped. Consult your vet for more information.
Brush and Comb: You’ll probably want a wire bristle brush that has round tips. (If it hurts your skin, it will hurt your puppy.) You’ll also need a metal comb.
Nail Clippers: You’ll need to clip your puppy’s nails regularly. Your vet can show you how.
Scissors and Clippers: If you puppy doesn’t shed (Schnauzer, Schnoodle, Cavapoo, etc.) s/he will need to be clipped every 8 weeks or so. You can do it yourself or take your pup to a groomer. If you want to groom your puppy, you’ll need professional grade scissors and clippers. They will be expensive, but cheaper ones will not work. We recommend you talk with groomers in your area and buy what they suggest.
Shampoo and Conditioner: We recommend a shampoo with oatmeal because it’s gentle on your puppy’s skin. Conditioner will keep hair healthy and allow you to comb through minor tangles. Make sure to use only shampoo and conditioner for dogs, as other kinds can be too harsh.
Bowls: You’ll need two bowls. Choose ones that won’t tip over, usually ceramic or metal. Often the dollar store has good metal bowls. They may have other supplies as well.
Puppy Food: We use Kirkland Super Premium Puppy Food. We suggest you investigate brands and read their labels for nutrition and ingredients. Any time you change your puppy’s food, make the transition gradually, over the course of 3-6 days, to reduce stomach upset and diarrhea.
Treats: You’ll need small treats for training. Choose ones that don’t crumble and that your puppy enjoys.
Toys: Our puppies love soft toys that make noise or provide good chewing. Often a small stuffed animal will help make the transition to a new place. As your pup grows, different kinds of toys will appeal to him/her. Offer a variety and see which ones become favorites.
Veterinarian: A good vet is a must. Consult friends or family for recommendations. You'll also need a 24-hour clinic near your home in case of an emergency. This is a great phone number to have on your refrigerator.
