Getting a new puppy is a joyous occasion. But it can be overwhelming especially if you are a first-time pup parent. To ensure that everything goes as smoothly as possible, we’ve compiled a list of basic puppy supplies that you should run and go buy before adding a new member to your family. 

Chew Toys 

Like human babies, fur babies experience teething. Unlike human babies, however, fur babies are able to sneak into your closet and chew on your favorite pair of leather loafers. To save your belongings from little puppy teeth, get your pooch some soothing chew toys, like a Nylabone Just for Puppies KeyRing Bone or a Bully Stick.

A Harness & Leash

When it comes to puppies, I have a personal preference for harnesses over leashes, because it’s easier to wrangle them. While your puppy may insist on getting a $250 Tiffany collar and a $300 matching leash, like mine did, your best bet is actually a back-clip harness and a retractable leash. 

Dog Food 

Upon first arrival, your pup is going to be starving, so you’ll need to have plenty of dog food on hand. That being said, it’s best to contact your vet to see what type of food would be best for your little one. 

Dog Bowls

After all, you’ll need a place to put your dog’s food. 

A Microchip

Before getting your pup, make an appointment for them to get microchipped. Sure it’s an additional cost, but it will prevent future heartbreak if your dog ever gets loose. 

A Crate 

Now everyone has an opinion on crate training and it’s not for every dog or every owner. That being said, it still can be good to try out. 

Biodegradable Waste Bags & Indoor Potty Area

Waste bags are an absolute must when you are dog owner. It’s pretty crappy behavior -- pardon the pun-- to not pick up after your dog on walks. That being said, poop bags aren’t that environmentally friendly, unless you get some that are biodegradable, like Earth Rated Poop Bags. Just a disclaimer though-- I once accidentally left a roll of them in my trunk for a few months and they disintegrated and it was a pain to clean up. So don’t do that. 

Similarly, you may be interested in getting an indoor potty area, like a Fresh Patch, especially if you don’t have a yard. This will prevent your pooch from making a mess on carpeted floors. 

Toothpaste and Toothbrush 

Your dog’s oral hygiene is super important. Not only will their breath smell a heck of a lot better, you'll prevent gum disease and other health issues along the line. For my dog, who is a 5-year-old but has a tiny puppy-sized mouth, I like to use a finger toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach area. As for toothpaste, I give her Sentry Petrodex Veterinary Strength Enzymatic Poultry Flavor Dog Toothpaste, as it was vet recommended. As with dog food, you talk to your veterinarian about what is most suitable for your pet. 

Tearless Shampoo

There’s a good chance that your pup is going to get into some serious messes. This is why you’ll need to have a few bottles of tearless puppy shampoo.

Bed

Your dog's bed is probably where they’ll spend most of their days. Unless of course, they take over your bed, which is a likely scenario. Now, you don't have to go super fancy with it but my dog has a hot pink crown shaped bed and she loves it. Just saying.

Anti-chew Spray

Did I mention that puppies like to chew things? My pup ruined countless phone chargers before I purchased anti-chewing spray. While there are a few on the market, you may just want to make your own to save a few bucks.