Go Home Puppy Checklist

A "Go Home Puppy Checklist" helps ensure that you're fully prepared when you bring your new puppy home. Below is a detailed checklist to guide you through the process and make sure your puppy’s first days with you go smoothly.

Designated Space: 

• Set up a quiet and safe area for your puppy to sleep and relax (such as a crate or playpen).
• Ensure the area is free of hazards (e.g., cords, sharp objects, toxic plants).

Puppy Proof the Home and Yard: 

• Move potentially harmful items (cleaning supplies, medications, etc.) out of the puppy’s reach.
• Block off areas that are unsafe or where you don’t want your puppy to go (e.g., stairs).
• Keep certain areas of the home off-limits (e.g., stairs, kitchen, etc.) until they’re comfortable with their surroundings.

Food and Water:

• High-quality, age-appropriate puppy food Tip! We send starter packs with our puppies!
• Food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic to avoid bacteria buildup)

Crate and Bedding:

• A crate that is the appropriate size for your puppy (enough space to stand, turn around, and lie down). Tip! this helps with potty training too!
• Bedding for the crate, including soft blankets or a comfy mat

Collar, Leash, and Harness:

• A soft, adjustable collar or harness
• A leash (standard 6-foot leash for walks and training)

Identification:

• ID tag with your puppy’s name and your contact information
• Consider having the puppy microchipped

Toys:

• Chew toys to soothe teething pain (appropriate size for your puppy) Tip! Puppies love to chew to soothe their teeth, keep plenty of chew toys around to redirect and prevent bad habits from forming!
• Interactive toys for mental stimulation
• Soft toys for comfort

Grooming Tools:

• Puppy-friendly shampoo and conditioner
• A brush suitable for your puppy's coat type Tip! We recommend a slicker brush
• Nail clippers designed for puppies
• Puppy toothpaste and a toothbrush (for early dental care)

Veterinary Care:

• Schedule a veterinary visit within the first few days to establish a health baseline and address vaccinations
• We will send home a copy of the puppy’s health records (vaccination history, deworming schedule, etc.).

Flea, Tick, and Worm Prevention:

• Ensure your puppy is on a parasite prevention plan

Health Guarantee:

• We provide a 2 year health guarantee from genetic diseases

Potty Training Supplies:

• Puppy pads or a designated potty area if you’re doing indoor training Tip! We suggest an area near the backdoor so puppies know where to go when they begin going outside.
• Outdoor potty area (if applicable, with secure fencing) for outdoor training.

Training Tools:

• Training treats for training at home Tip! High reward freeze dried training treats work best!
• Puppy training book or videos with basic commands, housebreaking, and behavior management Tip! We'll send home a list of basic commands started with your new puppy!

Comfort Items:

• Dogs love to burrow, that's why we suggest covering their create with a blanket, leaving the entry uncovered. This provides an extra sense of security Tip! We'll send home a blanket with their momma's scent for extra transitional support!

Routine:

• Establish a routine for feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and naps to help your puppy feel secure and settled Tip! Training and adjusting is all about consistency and routine!

Patience and Bonding:

• Spend time bonding with your new puppy. Be patient as they adjust to their new environment, and provide plenty of love and reassurance