So, you’ve decided to add a new four-legged friend to your family. First of all, yay! Congratulations!
Your life is about to be filled with cuddles, wet noses, and, well, chaos… 🙂
From my experience of adding a pup to our family this year, I’ve compiled a few thoughts, helpful tips and a shopping list to help you prepare for a new puppy.
Full disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase anything through the Amazon links in this article I will earn a small commission.
Prepare your home for your new puppy
Before the little bundle of joy (fur) arrives, it’s essential to puppy-proof your home.
Some say to think of it as preparing for a human baby, I think it’s more like a toddler, but with a bit more chewing involved. They can run around and they will get into anything they possibly can.
Search for potential dangers. Tuck away electrical cords and small choking hazards. Stash your favourite shoes out of reach and don’t leave any washing on the floor or your favourite pair of socks will become their new tug toy. Puppies are like tiny explorers with teeth, and they’ll sink them into anything they find interesting.
Puppy-proof your garden or balcony
Your backyard can be a puppy’s paradise, but to prepare for a new puppy it’s crucial to make your back yard safe. Fencing should be secure and high enough that Houdini-like escape artists can’t get out. Check for poisonous plants. You will be surprised by how many plants are toxic to dogs. At the very least take some time and learn what plants are in your garden so you can monitor your puppy and ensure they’re not getting into any danger while.
Eliminate potential hazards like holes or sharp objects that could harm your pup.
If your pup will have access to a balcony check for any areas that could be dangerous to a teeny weeny pup. For example, we had to cover gaps in our balcony railing because she would have easily popped through them.
Prepare a safe space for your puppy
Creating a comfortable space for your pup to feel safe while they settle into their new home is super important. A puppy crate with some nice soft bedding is a great option. Include a couple of safe toys for some mental stimulation and emotional comfort. If you get your puppy from a reputable breeder they will often send them off with a blanket and or a toy that smells like their Mum. Pop this in this area to increase their level of comfort and safety.
Research crate training
Full disclosure, we failed at crate training and our pup now sleeps with us. That said I still think you should give it a go! A lot of people swear by crate training and if you can nail it I do believe it will make your life so much easier.
If you’re looking do to a little research about crate training here’s a great article from BeChewy.
How to crate train a puppy.
Find a vet
Your pup will need regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care.
Research local vets to find one you trust and schedule your puppy’s first visit.
We took our pup in for a general check-up when we first got her. It was great to introduce her to a new vet without needing any scary procedures. It was great for us as first-time pup parents. We could get a good feel for that clinic and decide if we wanted to use them as our regular vet and gave us the peace of mind that our new little baby was in good health.
Look for puppy school classes
Puppy school is optional of course but if you are a first-time dog owner I would highly recommend looking into it. We found these classes to be really helpful for general training as well as a comfortable environment to socialise pup with other little fluffs of a similar developmental stage. Some are better than others of course. Ask around and check reviews before signing up.
Get ready for an emotional rollercoaster
The most important thing to consider when you want to prepare for a new puppy is to make sure you are ready for a massive life change. Your new puppy will undoubtedly bring endless joy, laughter, and countless unforgettable moments into your life but it’s not all fun and games. Prepare to fall in love but also for toilet training mishaps, sleepless nights and super sharp needle teeth…
Some people can actually feel what’s called “puppy blues” which is exactly as it sounds. Adjusting to life with a new pup can be stressful and draining. Be gentle with yourself and believe me, it does get better.
New Puppy Shopping List
Your puppy’s shopping list is the canine equivalent of a human child back to school list.
Here is your new puppy shopping list:
- Crate: A cozy, safe space for your pup to call their own.
- Bedding: Comfy blankets or a plush bed for them to curl up on.
- Food and Water Bowls: Stainless steel or ceramic bowls work best.
- Quality Puppy Food: Consult your vet or breeder for the right food for your puppy’s age and breed.
- Collar and ID Tags: Essential for walks and identification.
- Lead: Flat leather or nylon leans are best for puppies.
- Toys: Soft toys, and chew toys are a good place to start.
- Puppy Pads: For toilet training.
- Grooming Supplies: Brushes, shampoo, and nail clippers.
- Treats: For rewards and training.
- Poop Bags: For obvious reasons…
Haven’t decided on a breed yet? You might enjoy our article about Best dog breeds for apartments.
