If you’re in the process of adopting or buying a puppy and want to know what you should have ready when you bring home the newest member of your family, you’ve come to the right place. There are a few must-haves every new puppy owner should have to help ensure a smooth transition for their furry friend.

For Travel

First and foremost, you should already have a collar and leash to bring your puppy home. These are important for guiding your puppy into the car and into your home, as well as for taking them for a walk. You will quickly notice your puppy has a lot of energy and taking it for a walk is the best way to burn off some of that energy.

Puppies grow quickly, so it is a wise idea to purchase a collar that can be adjusted while your puppy grows. They will outgrow it eventually, but at least if it’s adjustable you won’t have to purchase a new collar every month.

Don’t forget to register your dog and get identification tags to go on its collars! Each town and city has its own process, so check your municipality’s website for details about their specific process.

For Grooming

As your puppy’s fur grows, it’s important to have a good brush or grooming glove to keep their fur from becoming a matted nightmare by the time they visit the groomer for the first time. Depending on the type of fur your puppy has, you’ll need a different type of brush.

Having dog shampoo on hand is also a good idea. Some puppies like to roll around in anything they find while out of a walk, and may require a bath to get rid of the dirt and smell.

For Potty Training

Puppies are tiny and have to go to the bathroom often, which can be challenging to manage when you have to leave the house to go to work. Accidents are going to happen, but there are some items you can purchase to help manage these accidents and make clean up a little easier.

The best thing you can purchase are puppy pee pads. These are easy to place on the floor and clean up after your puppy has used them, and are especially useful if you live high up in an apartment or condo building. Your puppy can also use them while you’re out at work. However, these should not replace outdoor potty training altogether, and only be used in the puppy’s early days to prevent accidents and tie them over until you get home and can take them out.

For Eating

Your puppy will be hungry the first day they are home, so you have to have a food bowl ready to go. You may want to consider investing in a slow feeding bowl. Puppies are used to fighting their litter mates for food and will likely gobble down their kibble in their new home. A slow feeder can prevent them from eating too quickly and potentially throwing it all back up.

Dogs should always have access to fresh water, so a water bowl is a must-have for puppies. Look for something that’s sturdy enough your puppy can’t easily tip it over. 

Being prepared for your puppy's arrival will help you and your puppy transition into your new life together.