Bringing a tiny puppy or an adopted dog into your life for the first time is exciting. You get emotional, can’t stop smiling, and you keep thinking of all the walks you’ll be taking together and all the cozy nights on the couch.
However, owning a dog for the first time comes with new responsibilities, and the best way to get a head start is by doing your homework and preparing for your furry friend’s arrival. Luckily, our first-time dog owner checklist can help.
In this helpful guide, we’ll walk you through all the essentials — from must-have supplies to healthcare, training, and safety — so that your new dog gets all the love and attention they deserve.
Basic Supplies
Before you bring your new dog home, it’s important to have the essentials ready. Basically, this is your starter kit as a first-time dog owner. Here’s what you need to have on day one.
Food and Water Bowls
Always go for sturdy, non-slip bowls if you can — preferably stainless steel or ceramic, as they’re easy to clean and more resistant to buildup.
Quality Dog Food
Make sure you have food that is appropriate for the pup’s age and size. A 100-lb adult Rottweiler is not going to need the same nutrition as a 6-week-old Chihuahua puppy. The best course of action is to talk to your vet and ask them about the nutritional options that are right for your dog.
Leash, Collar, and ID Tag
Safety first! A secure leash and collar are a must for walks, and don’t forget to include an ID tag with your contact details. Even if your new dog is microchipped, having a second form of ID is useful in the event that your dog escapes, runs away, or gets lost.
Bedding and Crate
A cozy bed will give your dog a safe space to rest and relax. That’s a great first step in getting them accustomed to their new home. You’ll also want to purchase a dog crate and get your dog accustomed to crate training. Just make sure the crate is big enough for your dog to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Healthcare Essentials
Your dog’s health is a top priority, so it’s best to get their healthcare basics sorted right away.
A Quick Vet Visit
Your first stop? The vet. Schedule a visit within the first few days of bringing home your new dog. The vet will give them a full health check, looking for any underlying issues that may not be obvious, and they’ll also make sure your dog is up to date on vaccinations.
Also, this initial visit is the perfect opportunity to discuss nutrition, behavior, or any specific concerns you might have.
Don’t hesitate to ask as many questions as you need about diet, exercise, or preventative care. Any doubts you may have going into it, there’s nobody better qualified to clear them up.
Flea, Tick, and Heartworm Prevention
No one wants creepy crawlers. Ask your vet about flea, tick, and heartworm prevention.
Consistent use of these medications is essential to protect your dog from parasites that can cause discomfort or lead to health issues.
There are a variety of forms available — including oral medications, topical treatments, and even collars — so ask your vet about which option is best suited for your dog’s lifestyle.
Health Supplements
Talk to your veterinarian about whether your dog may benefit from supplements. Dog probiotics can support your pup’s gut health, joint supplements can help dogs maintain mobility, and skin and coat supplements can keep your pup’s coat shiny. Always look for research-backed products that are formulated by pet health experts. Your vet can help you identify the right pet supplements for your dog’s age and lifestyle.
Grooming Supplies
Your dog will need regular grooming, even if they don’t have long fur. Stock up on the basics — like a good brush, nail clippers, dog-safe shampoo, and pet dental care.
Regular brushing helps with shedding and keeps your dog’s coat healthy while trimming their nails can prevent discomfort or injuries. Grooming is also a great way to bond with your dog and check for any signs of skin issues or parasites.
First Aid Kit
Accidents happen, but a simple dog first aid kit can save the day. It should include essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, tweezers for removing splinters or ticks, and any specific items your vet recommends.
Training and Behavior
When you bring a new dog home, it’s very important to set the stage for positive behavior, and those first few weeks of training are vital for building a strong bond and establishing good habits. Here are some dog training tools and tips that can help.
Puppy Training Pads
House training can be a real test of patience, especially with puppies. Puppy pads are a lifesaver while your dog is learning where to go. They help keep things clean and prevent accidents from happening all over the house.
Just remember — this phase doesn’t last forever, and with consistent training, your dog will get the hang of it.
Make sure to reinforce positive behavior by rewarding your pup when they go in the right spot. Don’t forget to take them outside frequently to build the habit. Don’t scold or yell at your dog if they have an accident inside, as this can actually hinder house training.
Basic Commands and Training Tools
Commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come” are the basis of good dog behavior and safety. The earlier you start teaching these commands, the better.
Stock up on treats, as positive reinforcement will be your best tool. A clicker can also be a helpful training tool. It allows you to signal to your dog that they’ve done something right, and they’ll start to associate the sound with rewards.
If you’re new to training, you can use a guide or even enroll in an obedience class to get extra support.
Leash Training
Leash training can be a challenge for both puppies and adult dogs who haven’t had much experience walking on a lead. Start slow — indoors first, if necessary — and give your dog plenty of encouragement.
Use treats to guide them into staying by your side, and practice short walks before going on longer adventures. Be patient; this skill takes time, but it’s crucial for safe and enjoyable walks together.
Socialization
Socializing your dog early is a key part of shaping their behavior. This involves introducing them to different people, pets, and environments in a controlled and positive way.
Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, the more exposure they get to various situations, the more confident and well-adjusted they’ll become. This can also reduce the likelihood of anxiety or aggression down the line.
Once your vet gives you the green lights, take your dog to different places, like parks or pet-friendly cafes, and allow them to meet new people and dogs. Always make sure the experience is a positive one with praise and rewards.
Mental Stimulation and Exercise
A happy dog is an active dog, and it’s important to meet both their physical and mental needs to keep them healthy and prevent behavior issues.
Toys and Puzzle Games
Mental stimulation is no less important than physical activity. Puzzle toys are fantastic for engaging your dog’s brains, so pick a toy that hides treats or a puzzle feeder that makes mealtime more challenging.
Chew toys will satisfy your dog’s natural chewing instincts, especially if you have a teething puppy. Without these outlets, your dog might turn to less ideal alternatives like your shoes or furniture!
Also, here’s a great insider tip: try rotating your dog’s toys every now and then. This can keep things fresh and exciting for them, and it can make them want to find out where the other toys are, which is a good way of developing their natural curiosity.
Daily Walks and Playtime
Regular walks and play sessions offer a chance to burn off energy, explore new scents, and bond with you.
Depending on your dog’s breed, size, and age, they may need more or less exercise.
High-energy breeds like Border Collies or Jack Russell Terriers might need more than just a quick walk around the block, while smaller or less active breeds may prefer shorter strolls.
Safety and Comfort
To help your dog adjust and be safe in a new environment, you need to make your space safe and comfortable for them. Here’s how to do it.
Dog-Proof Your Home
Before bringing your new friend home, go through each room and look for potential hazards. Hide electrical cords, secure cabinets with harmful chemicals, and block off any unsafe areas.
If your dog loves to chew, pick up some cord protectors and keep shoes or other valuables out of reach.
Provide Comfort Items
Make your dog feel at ease with a few comfort items. A soft blanket, a cozy bed, and familiar toys can help ease their anxiety during the adjustment period.
If you’re adopting an adult dog, find some items that smell familiar to them, like a blanket from their previous home or shelter.
Follow these tips to prepare ahead, and you’ll set the stage for a happy, healthy life with your new furry friend. Enjoy the journey!
First-Time Dog Owner Checklist
First Week Must-Dos
The first week of owning your new doggo is the most exciting, but this is also the time for preparation and getting your pet used to a new environment. Here’s what you need to do to help them feel at home:
- Vet visit
- Creating a safe space
- House and crate training
- Setting boundaries and rules
- Basic command training
- Leash training
- Establishing feeding schedule
- Bonding and quality time
- Monitoring health and behavior
- Slowly socializing with other people, environments, and pets
Must-Haves
If you’re a first-time dog owner, you’ll need a bunch of things for your pet, but you probably don’t even know where to begin. This is a list of the most important items:
Bedding
- Bed and/or crate
- Comfort items (blankets, toys, etc.)
- Heating or cooling pad (optional)
- Washable bed cover/crate mat
- Waterproof liner
Feeding
- Food and water bowls
- Slow feeder bowl (if needed)
- Quality dog food
- Treats
- Measuring cup or food scoop
- Food storage container
- Supplements (if vet recommended)
- Water dispenser (optional)
Training & Exercising
- Pee pads for house training
- Leash (regular and long training leash)
- Collar
- ID tag
- Harness (optional)
- Clicker (optional)
- Training whistle (optional)
- Behavioral aids (calming sprays, anxiety wraps, etc.)
- Reflective gear
- Agility equipment (small jumps, tunnels, etc. — optional)
- Toys (chew toys, tug toys, plush toys, and puzzle toys)
- Interactive games (to stimulate mental activity)
Grooming Supplies
- Brush/comb
- Nail clippers or grinder
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush and dog-safe toothpaste
- Microfiber towels
- Grooming wipes
- Fur clippers or scissors
- Deshedding tool (if needed)
Health Care
- Flea, tick, and heartworm prevention
- Dog-specific first aid kit
- Styptic powder (for stopping minor bleeding)
- Paw balm or moisturizer
- Thermometer
- Eye cleaner
- Ear cleaner & cotton balls
- Insurance policy or health savings
- Prescription medication (if needed)
- Vaccination records and medical history folder
Traveling
- Carrier crate
- Poop bags
- Travel blanket
- Portable water and food bowls
- Portable bed
- Backpack for a dog
- Travel restrictions information (some countries prohibit certain dog breeds from entering the country, some dog breeds aren’t allowed to fly cargo, etc.)
- Identification and health records
