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How to Prepare for Your New Puppy

Dogs

Bringing home your new puppy for the first time may take some adapting, it is important that you prepare for your puppy coming home to help them settle easily, feel happy and safe. You may need to puppy proof your home before they arrive. This can include hiding away any harmful objects such as cleaning products or electrical cables making sure nothing harmful is at easy access.

Especially at the start it is important they have their own space they can escape off to. Make sure their space is quiet and comfy as they may just want to spend some time alone. A crate is often a good idea as a safe space for your puppy, it is a secure space to explore and can also help with their toilet training.

Puppy Checklist

Creating a checklist is always a good way to help you prepare for your new puppy. Here’s some things you may need to help you get started:

A bed - somewhere comfy and cosy for naps.
A crate - often to provide your puppy with a safe place.
Complete puppy food - high quality puppy food formulated to help them grow. They tend to have more delicate stomachs then adult dogs. Shop our puppy food range.
Puppy treats - a tasty snack and a great training tool. Try not to feed too close to mealtimes as it may upset their stomachs.
Food and water bowls - choose the size based off what size of dog you have.
A collar - an adjustable collar is often a good idea as your puppy will quickly grow.
A lead - this is a must have for walks, especially when your dog is untrained.
A car restraint - it is the law to restrain your dog while travelling, chose a restraint that is suitable for your dog. To find out more, click here.
Lots of toys - all puppies love to play with toys and is a great way to keep your puppy entertained.
Puppy pads - these are essential when toilet training your puppy.
Poo bags - an obvious must.
A brush or comb - it is a good idea to groom your puppy from a young age so that they get used to it, especially if you decide to take them to the groomers.
Toothbrush and toothpaste (one for dogs) - to keep their breath fresh and reduce plague build up.
Puppy shampoo - puppies can have delicate skin so use a shampoo that is gentle and specially formulated for puppies.
Blankets - to keep your puppy cosy and warm.
Chew bone - promotes healthy teeth growth.
Flea & worm treatment - these are to make sure your puppy stays healthy and free of fleas, tick and any other unwanted pests.

You can find most of these necessities in one of our stores. Click here to find your nearest store.

We also have some tips on bringing your puppy home for the first time. to find out more, click here.