New Dog Shopping List: Preparing for Your New Family Member’s Arrival

Bringing a new dog home is one of the most exciting adventures you can embark on! Whether you’re welcoming a playful puppy or an adorable rescue dog, there’s so much joy awaiting you. 

But before the tail-wagging fun begins, it's essential to get your home ready for your new companion. That’s where our New Dog Shopping List comes in! 

We’ve compiled a guide filled with all the must-have items to ensure your pup feels right at home from day one. From cozy beds to tasty treats and everything in between, we’ll help you check off each item with ease. 

So, grab your shopping bags, and let’s get ready to spoil your new best friend! 

Basic Supplies: The Essentials for Your New Furry Friend

Collars, Leashes, and ID Tags

A well-fitted collar is a cornerstone of safety for your dog. Choose a durable, adjustable option that sits snugly around your dog’s neck, leaving enough room for two fingers to ensure comfort in your dog’s collar. Don’t forget an ID tag—this small yet vital accessory holds your contact details and can be a lifesaver if your new furry friend ever gets lost.

Our Comfort Control Dog Collar combines safety and style, making it a must-have for any new dog owner. Shop here.

A sturdy leash is equally important, whether you opt for a retractable style for open spaces or a fixed-length leash for better control in busy areas. Pair it with a no-pull harness for comfortable and safe walks, especially for dogs who may tug.

Try our Comfort Control Dog Leash and No Pull Dog Harness for secure and enjoyable outings. Explore our leashes and harnesses.

Dog Waste Potty Break Supplies

Prepare for outdoor adventures and house training with an ample supply of poop bags. These are essential for keeping your surroundings clean and are a must-have on your dog shopping list.

Pair your leash with our Poop Bag Holder to keep waste bags handy during walks.

The Importance of Regular Potty Break Training

Regular potty break training is essential for both your new puppy’s well-being and your household's comfort. Establishing a consistent routine early on helps your pup understand where and when it's appropriate to go to the bathroom. 

Frequent potty breaks are especially important for puppies, as their small bladders require more opportunities to relieve themselves throughout the day. By setting up a schedule that includes breaks after meals, naps, and playtime, you can reduce the chances of accidents in the house and encourage good potty habits.

Training your dog to recognize the signs of needing a potty break—such as sniffing around or pacing—can also help you stay proactive. Patience and consistency are key in this process. Positive reinforcement, like treats or praise, after they go outside, motivates your puppy to continue using the designated potty area. 

 

Food and Water Bowls

Feeding time should be simple and mess-free. Stainless steel bowls are a fantastic choice for their durability, ease of cleaning, and resistance to bacteria—making them superior to plastic alternatives. A non-slip base ensures the bowls stay in place, even for enthusiastic eaters.

Food

Feeding your new puppy the right way is essential to their health and happiness. When you first bring your new furry friend home, it’s best to stick to the dog’s food they’ve been eating before joining your family. This consistency helps your pup adjust during the transition period. If you want to switch to a new food, gradually introduce it by mixing it with their current food over 7–10 days. This slow transition is vital for most dogs to avoid digestive upset, especially when they’re settling into a new environment.

When creating your dog shopping list, carefully consider the quality of the food you select. High-quality options tailored to your particular dog’s needs—such as breed, size, or age—ensure they get the nutrients they require for optimal health. 

Avoid low-quality options that often lead to health issues down the line. Alongside choosing the best food, opt for durable, non-slip feeding dishes; stainless steel bowls are excellent, but plastic bowls can work too if they’re BPA-free and easy to clean. With proper planning, you’ll set your pup up for happy, healthy eating habits right from the start.

Crate and Bed

Crates serve as valuable training aids by providing a safe space for your pet, helping to establish boundaries, and promoting better behavior during training sessions. 

Choose between a wire crate for better ventilation or a plastic crate for a cozier feel. Add a plush, washable bed to give your dog a warm place to rest.

• Crate Training Tip: Ensure the crate is the right size—large enough for your dog to stand, turn, and lie down comfortably, but not so spacious that they can use it as a bathroom. 

Health Essentials: Grooming Tools and Supplies

Keeping your new pup looking and feeling their best starts with the right grooming supplies. A good brush and comb suited to your dog’s coat type are essential for maintaining a healthy, tangle-free coat and reducing shedding. 

Pair this with a dog-specific shampoo that’s gentle on their skin to keep your furry friend clean without irritation. Regular nail trims are also crucial—overgrown nails can lead to discomfort and even health issues, so invest in quality nail clippers or a grinder designed for pets. Dental hygiene is another often overlooked aspect of grooming. 

A dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste are vital for preventing plaque buildup and maintaining fresh breath.

For a well-rounded grooming routine, consider our Dog Grooming Set, which includes everything you need to keep your new family member looking their best. Regular grooming sessions aren’t just about hygiene; they’re also a wonderful opportunity to bond with your dog and spot potential issues like skin irritations, ticks, or other abnormalities. 

Establishing a grooming routine early will help your dog get comfortable with being handled and make the process easier for both of you.

The Importance of Vet Visits

While grooming keeps your dog looking great on the outside, regular visits to the veterinarian are essential for their overall health. Scheduling an initial vet visit as soon as you bring your pup home is a must. 

This check-up ensures your dog is in good health, identifies any underlying issues, and sets you up with a vaccination and preventative care plan. Your vet will also provide advice tailored to the particular dog breed, size, and age, including recommendations on diet, exercise, and health monitoring.

Routine vet visits are critical for tracking your dog’s development and catching potential health problems early. They’re also an excellent time to ask questions and get professional advice on topics like crate training, grooming, and socialization. By combining proper grooming with regular veterinary care, you’ll set the foundation for a happy and healthy life for your new furry friend.

Chew Toys and Rope Toys

Chew toys and rope toys are essential for satisfying your dog’s natural chewing instincts and preventing them from targeting furniture or shoes. Options like Nylabones and Kongs are not only durable but also hygienic, making them safe for your dog’s teeth and gums. 

To keep your pup engaged, offer a mix of hard and soft toys with varying textures, sizes, and sounds—this variety stimulates their curiosity and provides endless entertainment. Plush toys are perfect for puppies to cuddle, while rope toys and tennis balls add an interactive element for games like tug or fetch. 

Durability is key, so choose toys that can withstand rough play without falling apart, and avoid those stuffed with beans or Styrofoam. To keep things exciting, rotate the toys regularly instead of laying them all out at once—this prevents boredom and keeps playtime fresh and fun!

Baby Gates for Boundaries

Baby gates are a great tool to limit your dog’s access to certain rooms, especially during the training phase. They help create safe spaces and prevent accidents while you’re not supervising.

In conclusion, bringing a new dog into your home is exciting, and proper preparation is essential. By gathering the right supplies from your new dog shopping list, you’ll help your pup feel safe, loved, and ready to join your family.