New Puppy Checklist

Essential Supplies

Start with the basics to keep your puppy safe, secure, and well-fed:

• ID Tag

• Harness

  May be preferable over a collar to protect your puppy's trachea while they learn proper leash skills

• Leashes (6-10ft + 20-50ft)

  I like using a 10-foot leash for neighborhood walks because it gives my dog more space to explore. However, it can take some time to get used to handling a leash of that length, so choose what feels comfortable for you. A long line (20–50 feet) is perfect for park visits, allowing your pup extra freedom while giving you opportunities to practice recall. I highly recommend getting a biothane leash - they are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean. You can find them locally at Dodge City Grooming in Cumberland or Dogs Do Smile in Comox.

• Waste Bags and Holder

• Food + Water Bowl

  It's important to clean your dog's food and water bowl daily!

• Dog Food

• Dog Food Storage

  If you use a storage container to keep your dog’s food fresh, make sure to keep the kibble inside its original bag. The bag has a special lining that helps prevent spoilage, while the container’s main job is to provide an airtight seal.

Comfort + Confinement

Create a safe, cozy space for your puppy to rest and relax:

• Puppy Crate + Mat

  Select a crate that’s large enough for your puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can eliminate in one corner and sleep in another. Click here to learn all about crate training.

• Baby Gate, or Fencing System

  Using baby gates or fencing systems can help keep your dog safely contained in certain areas of the house. Puppies need supervision, and keeping their world small at first helps prevent trouble and sets them up for success.

• Dog Bed

Grooming

Starting early with handling and basic grooming helps your pup feel comfortable and makes future care much easier. Keep your puppy clean and healthy with a few simple grooming essentials:

• Brush
• Puppy Wet Wipes
• Toothpaste and Toothbrush
• Dog Shampoo
• Nail Clippers

Toys, Training + Travel

Keep your puppy entertained, engaged, and learning new skills:

• Training Treats

  The best treats for training are small, easily consumable, and high-value.

• Training Clicker

  Clicker training is a reward-based training method where a distinct clicking sound is used to precisely mark the desired behavior before giving a treat, helping the animal learn quickly and clearly.

• Treat Pouch

• Chew Toys

  Many people love giving their puppy a cute plush toy, and if you don’t mind replacing it quickly, they’re certainly adorable! Just keep in mind that most plushies won’t last long with a puppy’s teeth. For toys that stand up to active chewing, look for sturdy options like rope tug toys or chew toys made specifically for durability.

• Puzzle Toys/Brain Games

  Mental enrichment is crucial for your puppy’s well-being—there are many options from store-bought puzzle toys to easy, homemade brain games that help keep your dog engaged and fulfilled.

• Chase Toys

  I'm sure you’re familiar with fetch, but have you heard of a flirt pole? It’s a super fun game where your puppy can chase and pounce on a toy attached to the end of a string on a pole, giving them great exercise, building coordination, and is a great tool to help with impulse control. For small dogs or young puppies, check the cat section of your local pet store for lighter options, but as your pup grows you may want to invest in a sturdier flirt pole designed specifically for dogs.

• Car Seat Cover

• Crash-Tested Dog Seatbelt

  A seatbelt attachment helps keep your puppy safe while traveling by securing them in place. Simply click the tether into your vehicle’s seatbelt buckle and attach it to the back clip of your puppy’s harness for a safe and comfortable ride.

• Collapsible Food and Water Bowls

Final Tips for New Puppy Parents

Puppy-Proof Your Home: Remove hazards and keep valuables out of reach.

Schedule a Vet Visit: Find a vet that practices fear-free methods and ensure your puppy is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations.

Allow for Adjustment: Be patient and give your puppy a few days to settle in, explore their new environment, and get comfortable at their own pace.