New Puppy Checklist - First-Time Dog Owner

🍖 Food & Feeding

• ○
  Puppy food (same brand breeder/shelter used initially)
• ○
  Food bowls (stainless steel, weighted to prevent tipping)
• ○
  Water bowl (larger than food bowl)
• ○
  Treat pouch for training
• ○
  Training treats (small, soft, smelly)
• ○
  Food storage container (airtight)
• ○
  Slow feeder bowl (if pup eats too fast)

🛏️ Rest & Crate

• ○
  Crate (size for adult dog, with divider)
• ○
  Crate pad or bed
• ○
  Crate cover (for nighttime darkness)
• ○
  Dog bed for around the house
• ○
  Blankets (old ones work great)
• ○
  Puppy playpen/exercise pen

🎾 Toys & Entertainment

• ○
  Chew toys (Kong, Nylabone - puppy appropriate)
• ○
  Teething toys (for sore gums)
• ○
  Rope toys
• ○
  Squeaky toys
• ○
  Puzzle toys/treat dispensers
• ○
  Balls (appropriate size for breed)
• ○
  Snuggle toy (heartbeat toy for first nights)

🦮 Walking & Outdoor

• ○
  Collar with ID tag (name, your phone)
• ○
  Leash (6 ft standard, not retractable for training)
• ○
  Harness (no-pull style recommended)
• ○
  Poop bags and dispenser
• ○
  Portable water bottle/bowl
• ○
  Long line lead (15-30 ft for recall training)

🧼 Grooming

• ○
  Puppy shampoo (gentle, tearless)
• ○
  Brush (type depends on coat)
• ○
  Nail clippers or grinder
• ○
  Ear cleaner
• ○
  Toothbrush and dog toothpaste
• ○
  Towels dedicated for dog

🩺 Health & Safety

• ○
  Find a veterinarian (schedule first visit)
• ○
  Pet insurance (consider enrolling while healthy)
• ○
  Flea/tick prevention
• ○
  Heartworm prevention
• ○
  Pet first aid kit
• ○
  Microchip (if not already done)
• ○
  Vaccine records from breeder/shelter

🏠 Puppy-Proofing

• ○
  Baby gates (restrict access to certain areas)
• ○
  Hide/cover electrical cords
• ○
  Remove toxic plants (lilies, aloe, ivy)
• ○
  Secure trash cans
• ○
  Store chemicals/cleaners out of reach
• ○
  Pick up small items puppy could swallow
• ○
  Protect furniture from chewing (bitter spray)
• ○
  Designate potty area (indoor pads or outdoor spot)

📚 Training Essentials

• ○
  Enzymatic cleaner for accidents (Nature's Miracle, etc.)
• ○
  Potty training pads (if using indoor)
• ○
  Clicker (for clicker training)
• ○
  Training book or online course
• ○
  Sign up for puppy class (socialization!)
• ○
  Establish feeding schedule (consistency is key)

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