The ultimate new puppy checklist from one dog owner to another

Pets

By Kieran Galpin

19 August 2024

Introducing a new puppy into your household can be a stressful and expensive endeavor, so with that in mind, we have crafted the ultimate new puppy checklist.

Getting a dog is a huge responsibility, which is exactly why the obligation is not right for everyone and there is no shame in admitting it won’t work in your life.

After you’ve chosen the breed of your dreams, perhaps considering what dog trainers think is the best, and pick a dog name that isn’t the most overused name in America. Maybe it’s worth drawing inspiration from pop culture.

Unfortunately, after the initial excitement dissipates, new dog owners are left with a mountain of tasks and often an even bigger mountain of bills.

In a bid to reduce the overwhelming stress of your new pet experience, we have put together the ultimate new puppy checklist.

Dogs — Credit: Unsplash/Ayla Verschueren

Take your puppy to the vets

One of the first, and arguably most important steps, is to take your new bundle of joy to a vet. You need to get them registered, which starts the process of microchipping, vaccinating, and general health checks.

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In the first few months of their life, you might find yourself at the vet more than you’d like, but the puppy needs to receive the highest standard of care while they are still growing. Of course, this comes with a hefty price tag, with particularly expensive breeds including French Bulldogs, German Shepherds, and Cocker Spaniels.

Some dog breeds also require specialist care, so you must stay up to date with vet advice and guidance during your monthly trips.

It’s bedtime, so they are going to need somewhere to sleep

Dog sleeping — Credit: Pexels/Lisa Fotios

When the sun sets and after the mandatory evening zoomies, your pup is going to need somewhere to rest its head. Though vets recommend an elevated bed for puppies who love to chew, there are practically too many options to choose from.

There has been a lot of debate surrounding whether you should crate train your puppy, and while our own Ellissa had incredible success with her dog Remy, there seem to be valid points on either side of the argument.

On the pro crate training side, experts have argued that it reduces owner stress, reduces damage caused by your puppy during the night, and helps form long-lasting boundaries.

In contrast, some dogs have experienced increased levels of anxiety when locked away in a crate. Though this can be mitigated by taking the process much slower and encouraging them to spend time in there with lots of treats, some owners don’t have the time or space to fully integrate a crate.

Your puppy needs a specific kind of food

Dogs are able to eat a shocking amount of human food, but you are still required to purchase puppy-specific dog food.

When it comes to the actual brand or food type, it’s best to consult with your vet in case your doggo requires specific things from their meals.

Another major consideration is what you are going to use for treats, because trust us, you’ll go through them like nobody’s business. When you start to train the new addition to your family, treats are the go-to encouragement for maximum focus.

Outside traditional food and yummy treats, it’s smart to stock up on bones, chews, and other really smelly foods that dogs enjoy. It’s best to consult a vet for the best chewy options, as you’ll soon find that the online dog community is full of contradictory statements and misleading information.

For instance, while yak milk chews have been celebrated as a better alternative to traditional bones, which can splinter in your dog’s mouth, some have argued that they are just as harsh on their teeth.

Dog toys and enrichment activities are key

Dog toya — Credit: Pexels/chept� cormani

Toys, puzzles, and enrichment activities are necessary to keep your dog in a positive mental state and out of trouble. The recommended amount of toys tends to be between two and three at a time, but it’s wise to stock up on its favorite in case of a break.

Enrichment activities are a little different from toys in that they aren’t necessarily something you also get involved with. Activities can be as extravagant as the doggy board game, or as simple as TikTok’s ice bowl trick, but the game aims to get their brains and nose working.

Enrichment activities are also necessary if you work from home, as they give you a chance to breathe as your dog rummages around for treats.