The Ultimate Puppy Essentials Checklist: Must-Have Items for New Dog Owners
Bringing home a new puppy can be an exciting but also an overwhelming experience. We want to make the transition smooth for both you and your furry friend; that’s why Petrickar has put together this of everything you could possibly need for your new dog!
Of course, not every dog will need everything on this list, but consider it a helpful guide to make sure you don’t forget anything important instead of being a definitive list. The items have been divided up into categories to help you think of every scenario.
Let’s dive in!
Basics
- Collar
- Leash
- Harness
- Microchip / ID Tag (Consider our Buddy Passport as a microchip alternative)
- Food & Water Bowls
- Age and Breed Appropriate Dog Food
- Treats
- Crate
- Dog Bed & Blankets
- Pee Pads
- Vet Contact Information

Toys & Playtime
- Plushies
- Tug Toys
- Chew Toys
- Puzzle Toys
- Ball / Frisbee
- Play Pen
Training
- Training Treats
- Clicker
- Treat Bag
Going On Walks
- Harness
- GPS Tag (Check out our Paw Tracker!)
- Poop Bags & Holder
- Collapsable Water Bowl / Water Bottle
Grooming & Hygiene
- Dog Shampoo
- Towels
- Toothbrush & Toothpaste
- Teeth Cleaning Chew Toys / Treats
- Hair Brush
- Nail Clippers
- Hair Trimmer
- Paw Conditioner
- Ear Cleaner
- Heartworms, Flea & Tick Treatment
- Cleansing Wipes
Other Things To Consider
- Car Bed / Car Seat
- Dog Clothes
- Cooling Mat / Heating Pad
- Pet Insurance
- Pet-Safe Cleaning Supplies
- Lint Roller
- Air Purifier
Being prepared well in advance will make sure this new journey with your puppy starts off as stress-free as possible. Every dog is different, so take the time to get to know your puppy and their specific needs. And if you are looking to adopt a furry friend into your life, visit our partners at JohnJud and The Voice Foundation!





