New Puppy Checklist: What to Have Ready Before Day One

Bringing home a puppy is exciting and a little chaotic. Having the basics ready before day one means you can spend that first week bonding instead of rushing to the shops.

Somewhere safe to sleep

A crate gives a puppy a den of its own and makes toilet training much easier. Choose one that fits your dog's adult size and use a divider while they're small.

Add a soft bed or blanket inside. Many puppies settle faster with something cosy they can curl into.

Food and a sensible bowl

Keep feeding whatever the breeder or shelter used for the first week, then switch slowly if you want to change. If your puppy inhales meals, a slow feeder helps.

See our guide to choosing dry dog food for what to look for on the bag.

A harness and lead for the first walks

Once your vet says it's safe to go out, a well-fitted harness protects a small neck while your puppy learns to walk on a lead.

Treats and a clicker for training

Puppies learn fast with lots of tiny rewards. Soft, small treats and a clicker make sessions quick and fun.

Toys for teething

Puppies chew, a lot. Give them safe things to chew, and rotate toys to keep them interesting.

Grooming basics

Get your puppy used to being brushed and handled while young; it makes vet visits and grooming easier for life.

The quick list

• Crate and bed
• Food (same as before), bowls
• Harness, lead and ID tag
• Training treats, treat pouch and clicker
• Chew toys
• Brush and puppy-safe shampoo
• Enzyme cleaner for accidents, and plenty of patience

Most of all: book a vet check in the first week, and start gentle training from day one.