Puppy Essentials Shopping List

1. Cozy bed or crate: Your puppy will need a dedicated space to sleep and relax. Choose a bed or crate that is cozy, appropriately sized for your puppy's breed, and provides a sense of security.
2. Food and water bowls: Opt for stainless steel or ceramic bowls that are easy to clean and resistant to tipping. Make sure they are the right size for your puppy's breed and age to ensure they can comfortably eat and drink.
3. Puppy food: Consult with your veterinarian to select a high-quality puppy food that meets your puppy's specific nutritional needs. Choose a balanced and age-appropriate formula to support their growth and development.
4. Collar and leash: Essential for walks and outdoor adventures, a properly fitted collar and leash are important for your puppy's safety. Select a collar that is adjustable and comfortable, and a leash that is durable and appropriate for your puppy's size.
5. Identification tags: Ensure the safety of your puppy by attaching identification tags to their collar. Include your puppy's name and your contact information (phone number and address) so they can be easily identified if they get lost.
6. Puppy toys: Provide a variety of toys to keep your puppy entertained and mentally stimulated. Choose toys that are safe, durable, and suitable for their age and size. Consider interactive toys, chew toys, puzzle toys, and plush toys to cater to different play needs.
7. Puppy pads or outdoor potty supplies: Help your puppy learn proper potty habits from day one by having puppy pads or outdoor potty supplies readily available. Puppy pads are absorbent and provide a designated area for them to eliminate indoors, while outdoor potty supplies like grass patches or a designated potty area in your yard can facilitate outdoor potty training.
8. Grooming supplies: Keep your puppy's coat, nails, and teeth in good condition with the right grooming supplies. Essential items include a brush or comb suitable for your puppy's coat type, puppy-safe shampoo, nail clippers or a grinder, and a toothbrush/toothpaste designed for dogs.

The First 48 Hours With Your New Puppy

1. Create a quiet and safe space: Designate a specific area in your home where your puppy can relax and feel secure. This can be a crate, a cozy corner with a comfortable bed, or a gated-off section of a room. Make sure the space is free from hazards and provides a sense of security.
2. Introduce your puppy to their designated potty area: Take your puppy outside to their designated potty area immediately upon arrival. Give them time to sniff around and encourage them to eliminate. Use positive reinforcement, such as praise and treats, when they successfully go potty in the designated area. This helps establish good potty habits from the start.
3. Begin a feeding schedule: Establish a consistent feeding schedule for your puppy. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate type and amount of food for your puppy's age and breed. Offer regular meals at designated times and provide plenty of fresh water at all times.
4. Start basic training with positive reinforcement: Begin basic training exercises as soon as possible. Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, to reward desired behaviors. Start with simple commands like sit, stay, and come. Be patient and consistent with training, and make it a fun and positive experience for your puppy.
5. Bond with your puppy through gentle play and cuddling: Spend quality time bonding with your new puppy through gentle play sessions and cuddling. This helps establish a strong emotional connection and builds trust. Use interactive toys and engage in gentle play to stimulate their minds and bodies. Cuddle and pet your puppy to provide comfort and reassurance.

1. Place your puppy's bed or crate in your bedroom: For the first night, it's recommended to have your puppy sleep in your bedroom. This helps them feel secure and reduces separation anxiety. Set up their bed or crate close to your own bed, so they can sense your presence.
2. Provide a soft blanket and a familiar-smelling toy: Make your puppy's sleeping area comfortable by placing a soft blanket or bedding inside their bed or crate. Additionally, provide a familiar-smelling toy or a piece of cloth that has the scent of their littermates or the breeder. This can provide a sense of security and familiarity.
3. Offer reassurance with soothing words or sounds: To help your puppy feel comforted during their first night, offer soothing words or sounds. You can softly talk to them, use a calm and gentle tone, or play soft background music. Some people find that a ticking clock placed nearby can mimic heartbeat sounds and provide reassurance to the puppy.
4. Take your puppy for a final potty break before bedtime: Just before settling down for the night, take your puppy outside for a final potty break. This helps prevent accidents during the night and reinforces the routine of going potty outside. Give them ample time to eliminate and provide positive reinforcement for appropriate behavior.
5. Be prepared for initial whining or restlessness: It's normal for puppies to feel some anxiety or restlessness during their first night away from their littermates. Be prepared for whining or crying as they adjust to their new environment. Avoid giving in to their demands or taking them out of their designated sleeping area, as this can reinforce unwanted behavior. Instead, provide comfort through your presence and soothing words, and allow them to gradually adjust to the new surroundings.

• New Dog Owner