New Puppy Checklist: Everything You Actually Need

(From a Real Owner)

new puppy checklist supplies

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting… and a little chaotic.


Between accidents, chewing, and training, having the right essentials from day one makes everything smoother.


Here’s a realistic new puppy checklist with must-haves I actually recommend.




1. Adjustable Dog Crate (Your Puppy’s Safe Space)

puppy training crate

A puppy training crate helps with house training, sleep routines, and anxiety reduction.


Top Picks:


Amazon Basics Folding Metal Dog Crate 


Gardner Pet Collapsible Dog Crate 



2. This Is Where to Safely Tire Your Puppy Out

A playpen keeps your puppy safe while giving them space to move.


You can either go the crate inside the plane route or have them both separate.


Top Picks:




3. Teething Toys (Save Your Furniture)

puppy training checklist toy kong

Puppies need appropriate things to chew — or they’ll choose for you.


Must-Haves:



KONG Puppy Starter Kit + AirBalls - No frills here but Kongs are the most traditional, well known teething toy for puppies. It's not the cutest but it's quite effective and this kit also comes with traditional tennis balls and a stuffed squeaky toy. 

puppy training checklist toy heartbeat

Heartbeat Puppy Toy - This all round heartbeat kit includes lick mats and a treat ball to keep your puppy calm and entertained. 

puppy training checklist toy pupsicle

Pupsicle Woof Starter Pack - Freeze peanut butter or yogurt in this durable and dishwasher safe pupsicle treat ball and your puppy stays busy for hours.

puppy training checklist toy teething bone

Chewzzle Fun Teething Bones - A teething bone is a must have and these come in fun colors and can be stuffed with treats!



4. Training Treats (Fast, Easy Training)

Training is much easier with high-value treats.


Best Options:



5. No-Slip Food & Water Bowls

Avoid mess and spills with a stable feeding setup.


Top Picks:



6. Safe Cleaners (You’ll Use These Daily)

Accidents are part of the process — the right cleaner is essential.

Must-Haves:




7. Puppy Training Pads (Last but not least!)

puppy checklist training wee wee pads

I highly recommend XL wee wee pads. It's a trick I discovered that was a game changer for me with sooo much less cleanup. You can read my full reasoning of why bigger training pads make training easier at my blog post here


Final Thoughts...

If you get these essentials right, you’ll reduce stress, speed up training, protect your home, and keep

your puppy happy.



That’s really all you need to start strong.


new puppy checklist supplies



Save or print this puppy checklist. You'll thank me later 🐾