New Puppy Checklist: The Essentials to Have at Home
If the holiday season brought an unexpected bundle of joy into the home this year – a playful and adorable puppy, this helpful puppy checklist is for you! As you navigate the excitement of welcoming a new furry family member, here are a few essential items that would make the experience smoother and more enjoyable:
1. Comfortable Bed
Provide a crate or pen with a cozy blanket to start, as beds in the crate might face chewing or accidents. Consider a cot for the main living area, elevating them off the ground. This also helps with aiding in teaching a ‘place’ command.
2. Nutritious Puppy Food
Ensure your puppy gets proper nutrition for their rapid growth. Sturdy dog bowls on a bone-shaped place mat can help to contain messes.
3. Chew Toys
Puppies love to chew, and Kong offers safe toys for chewing and are great when stuffed with treats to help keep them entertained and to exercise their jaw.
4. Collar/Harness and Leash
Prepare for safe walks post-vaccination so your pup can explore and exert some energy. Harnesses work well for small puppies, and they are essential for brachycephalic breeds, like Frenchies and pugs.
5. Pet Stain and Odor Remover
Unfortunately, the downside of a new puppy is there will be accidents. A reliable stain and odor remover
will keep your home clean and smelling fresh.
6. Bathing essentials
Puppies will roll in all sorts of things! They may need a few extra baths during the days of potty training and exploring. Invest in a gentle, tearless shampoo and conditioner that will nourish their skin and keep them smelling fresh and looking like a million bones.
7. Interactive Games
Keep your pup entertained with a game of fetch, tug o’ war, or even doggie bubbles for shared joy and laughter.
8. Training Treats
Start training early to have a well-behaved dog in the future. You can use pieces of their kibble as a reward or healthy, one or two ingredient treats.
9. Vet Visits and Vaccinations
Puppies need several vet visits in their first six months, which can add up quickly! By enrolling in a pet care plan, you can save 20-50% off all in-house vet services, including vaccinations!
10. Plan for Daycare
Puppies have a lot of energy and need socialization. Daycare at Dogtopia is a great place for your dog to play with other like-minded pups, get plenty of exercise and learn positive behavior. After your pup has received all their vaccinations, schedule them for a Meet & Greet evaluation at your nearest Dogtopia location.
As the days unfold, your puppy will quickly become the heart of your home, bringing endless joy and laughter. Welcoming a furry friend during the holidays is undoubtedly a unique and rewarding experience, made even better with the right essentials to ensure a smooth transition. Visit DogtopiaShop.com to shop many of your new puppy essentials!