Adding a puppy to the family is a big commitment. Make sure you are willing and able to put forth the time, money and work required for the next 16-18 years. Having done that, getting the supplies you need ahead of time will make the first few days easier for both you and your new pet.

Puppy Basics
When it comes to equipment for your new puppy, one of the best investments you can make is in a crate. You will use the crate right away for foolproof housebreaking.

If you want to use the crate for traveling or times the dog may need to be temporarily confined, you will want to purchase one big enough for his adult size. If so, you will need to block off the extra space while you are using it for housetraining. Some crates come with an adjustable "wall" for this purpose.

A crate also provides a comfortable den for the puppy or dog, one where they can feel safe and secure.

You can cover the bottom with an old towel or blanket for comfort, or purchase a pad made to fit. A water dish that clips onto the cage is a good idea until the puppy is trained and no longer confined to the crate.

Collar and Leash
You will also need a puppy collar and lightweight leash. Remember that the puppy will outgrow her collar quickly, so buy an inexpensive one at first.

Leashes come in varying lengths and weights. Shorter leashes make it easier to keep the dog close when walking, while longer ones give the puppy more freedom.

Lightweight leashes are good for advanced training, as they let the dog feel that she is "off leash" while still offering you some control.

Do not use a choke chain as a collar. Though these were once popular for training, they have fallen out of favor. Regardless of whether you use them during training or not, they pose a choking danger if left on all the time. And don't forget the id and license!

Puppy's Own Dinnerware

Of course you will want special dishes for food and water. Though any cast-off container can be used, the best choices are stainless steel or ceramic. Both are more sanitary than plastic and won't leach harmful chemicals. Of course ceramic is breakable so keep that in mind.

You will probably want small ones now, but if you are getting a large dog you may wish to buy larger ones as he grows.

We have found dishes with rounded bottom to be the easiest for the dogs to eat out of, especially if they are eating wet foods. Dishes that are weighted, or have rubber on the bottom will not move around the floor, and the round bottom ones are also designed to be tip-proof.

Puppy Fun Stuff
Toys - lots of toys!- are a must for your new puppy. They will help keep him occupied, thereby avoiding boredom. Chew toys are also necessary for teething puppies if you want to save your shoes and furniture.

Toys can also be educational. A variety of toys will keep the puppy interested and excited. You can keep some put away, and offer them anew every now and then.

Doggie Clean-up Made Simple
I strongly suggest purchasing some kind of enzyme cleaner, such as Nature's Miracle or Out Spot! for the occasional puppy accident. These can also be used in the wash for towels and bedding.


A "pooper scooper", though not a necessity, is a handy tool to make yard clean up easier and more pleasant. Save plastic bags from bread and produce, or purchase biodegradable bags for your outings.

Prepare Your House for Puppy
In addition to purchasing the above supplies, you will want to "puppy-proof" your home, as if you were expecting a new baby.

Keep all cleaning products and other potentially toxic compounds out of reach of an inquisitive pup. Remember that regular antifreeze is deadly! Also reconsider the cleaning products you use on your floors and rugs. Rug shampoo and bleach can be detrimental to your dog's health. Make sure your any houseplants are not poisonous to animals.

Check for electrical cords that may be readily spotted by the pup. Make sure the trash is in a tightly closed container or inside a cabinet.

Schedule Puppy Adoption Day
Lastly, clear your calendar for the weekend you bring the puppy home. It should be a quiet one, with at least one responsible person home at all times for the first few days.

Coming into a new environment will be stressful for the puppy, having few new people to meet and little other distraction will help her settle in faster.

Getting a puppy is a big commitment and a long one, but one that will bring you years of joy and fun in return.

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