New Puppy Checklist by Category: Every Item to Prepare Before Pickup
A new puppy checklist printable covers everything to buy and prepare before your puppy arrives — organised by category so nothing gets missed and no money is wasted. Here is the full list.
A new puppy checklist organised by category stops the frantic 10pm trip to a pet shop for something you forgot. Puppies are fast, curious and surprisingly destructive, and the difference between a smooth first day and a stressful one is preparation. Here is the complete checklist, organised by category, plus the documents most owners overlook.
Essentials
- Food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic)
- The same puppy food the breeder or shelter used
- Collar, ID tag with your phone number, and a lightweight lead
- Enzyme cleaner for accidents
- Poo bags and a dispenser
Sleeping and Containment
- Correctly sized crate (with a divider for a growing puppy)
- Washable bedding
- Baby gates for stairs or rooms
- A puppy pen for daytime confinement
Feeding
- Measuring cup or scales for portion control
- Training treats
- A written feeding schedule so everyone gives the same meals
New Pet Shopping Checklist
Want a ready-to-print version, organised by category with tick boxes? The New Pet Shopping Checklist covers everything to buy before your puppy arrives — printable and fillable, so nothing gets missed.
Get the New Pet Shopping Checklist →Safety
- Cable covers for chewable wires
- Removal of toxic plants and low-level hazards
- Secured cupboards for cleaning products and medicines
Grooming and Health
- Puppy brush, nail clippers and puppy-safe shampoo
- Toothbrush and puppy toothpaste
- Flea and worming treatment (ask your vet for the correct product for the age)
Training and Enrichment
- Chew toys (puppies are teething)
- A Kong or lick mat for crate settling
- A treat pouch for training sessions
Documents and First Vet Visit
- Health and vaccination documents from the breeder or shelter
- Microchip registration in your name
- A booked vet appointment for the first week
Two ways to start prepared
Just need the shopping list? Choose the New Pet Shopping Checklist. Want checklists plus feeding, potty, routine and training trackers for the whole first weeks? Choose the New Puppy Starter Kit.
Get the New Puppy Starter Kit →Frequently Asked Questions
What do I need to buy before getting a puppy?
At minimum: bowls, the breeder's food, a crate, bedding, a collar and ID tag, enzyme cleaner and training treats. Add grooming supplies, toys and a lead before vaccinations are complete.
What documents should I get at pickup?
Vaccination history, any health records, and confirmation that the microchip is registered to you.
When should the first vet visit be?
Within the first week, even if the puppy seems healthy — to check for issues, start or continue vaccinations and establish your vet relationship.
Printable and fillable PDF templates for pet owners — feeding schedules, health records, training trackers and more.