Puppy Essential Checklist

Collar (adjustable and lightweight for early weeks)

Leash (4–6 ft standard leash for daily walks; avoid retractables early on)

ID Tag with your contact info

Harness (optional, but great for leash training and safety in the car)

Crate (size-appropriate with divider, your puppy’s safe den!)

Exercise Pen or Baby Gate (to safely contain your puppy when unsupervised)

Puppy Food (the same brand Victor’s all life stages, transition slowly if changing)

Food & Water Bowls (stainless steel or ceramic; easy to clean)

Treats (soft, high-value treats for training; limit rich snacks)

Food Storage Container (airtight to keep kibble fresh)

Dog Bed – puppies love the donut style beda

Snuggle Puppy or Heartbeat Toy (helps ease separation anxiety)

Chew Toys (for teething: rubber, nylon, or natural options like Benebone, Nylabone) Trachea, Ears, Rolled Cow cheeks, Bully sticks.

Puzzle Toys (Kong, snuffle mat, lick mat, etc.)

Soft Toys

Slicker and Brush – Metal Comb (for line brushing)

Shampoo & Conditioner (puppy-safe, gentle formula)

Ear Cleaner & Cotton balls

Nail Clippers or Grinder

Toothbrush & Puppy Toothpaste

Puppy Pads or a washable pee mat

Poop Bags

Cleaning Spray (enzyme-based cleaner for accidents)

Car Crate or Seat Belt Harness

Travel Water Bottle or Bowl

Towel or Blanket for Car Rides

First Aid Kit (pet-safe essentials for small scrapes or emergencies)

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Example of setup that your puppy is familiar with:

An x-pen with a kennel inside is one of the kindest, most practical setups you can give a new puppy.

Many breeders set their puppies up in a very similar arrangement, so this isn’t something “new” you’re asking your puppy to accept when bringing them home, it’s something familiar.

The kennel becomes a cozy, “den” sleeping space, while the x-pen allows room to stretch, play, and safely explore without becoming overwhelmed.

This setup helps puppies settle more easily into their new home and supports a smooth transition to kennel training. Because the kennel is part of their daily environment from the start, not something they’re suddenly confined to, many puppies naturally choose to sleep inside it.

The x-pen also provides clear boundaries, encourages calm independence, and gives puppies a place to rest and decompress, which is just as important as play.

If you have older or other dogs, this setup is especially helpful. It gives them a comfortable break from puppy energy while still allowing everyone to coexist calmly and safely. Puppies learn to settle, observe, and rest without constantly engaging.

Example of Pearl, being the best puppy ever 💕
Loved by Sharyn and family
Beau and Phoenix Litter