Tailroost · Printable checklist
New puppy checklist
The short version. The full guide, with the reasoning behind every line, is at tailroost.com/dogs/health/bringing-puppy-home-checklist/.
Buy before the puppy arrives
- Crate sized for the adult dog, with a divider
- Two stainless steel bowls (food and water)
- Two weeks of the exact food the breeder is feeding
- Adjustable collar and ID tag with your phone number
- Flat leash, 4-6 ft (no retractable leash yet)
- Bed or crate mat that fits inside the crate
- Four toys: chew, soft, puzzle, tug or fetch
- Enzymatic cleaner (not household floor cleaner)
- One or two baby gates
- Brush for the coat type
- Small, soft training treats
- Poop bags
- Comfort item from the breeder, asked for in advance
Do before the puppy arrives
- Puppy-proof room by room: cords, small objects, toxic plants, cleaning products
- Decide where the crate lives (bedroom for the first weeks)
- Book the first vet appointment for days 3-5
- Agree house rules with everyone: furniture, feeding, who does what
- Clear the calendar for the first weekend
- Ask the breeder for last meal time, feeding amounts and medical records
First 48 hours
- Straight to the potty spot on arrival, before entering the house
- Quiet introduction to the crate, door open, treats inside
- No visitors, no parties, no long walks
- Potty trip every 1-2 hours and after every meal, nap and play session
- Crate near your bed for the first night, one or two overnight potty trips
First 30 days
- Vet visit, parasite prevention and the vaccination plan
- Same feeding times every day
- Crate training in short sessions
- Socialization: new surfaces, sounds and people, carried until vaccines are complete
- Short planned absences of 15-30 minutes
- Microchip registered in your name
- Name, sit and coming when called, in 2-3 minute sessions
Tailroost — practical dog care from real owners. tailroost.com