Puppy Essentials: A New Puppy Checklist with 10 Must-Have Toys, Supplies, and Treats

The ultimate new puppy checklist:

1. Crate and playpen

2. Puppy food

3. Collar

4. Leash

5. ID Tag

6. Food and water bowls

7. Play and chew toys

8. Treats

9. Health supplies

10. Cleaning supplies

1.  Crate & Playpen

Our first essentials help train your puppy and provide them with a safe exploring space. Your crate should be large enough to accommodate growth. Consider buying one that will allow them to stand and turn around when they’re fully grown. We also recommend a playpen with a step-through door so your pet can easily enter and exit. Playpens are essential as they give your pet the space to be comfortable while you aren’t available to give them your full attention.

2.  Puppy Food

There are so many things that puppies get tail-waggy for, but the clanking of their food bowl and crinkling of food bags are both near the top of that list. For your growing puppy, a raw diet for dogs is great for all stages of life (read more on that here), so here are our top picks for new puppy food:

• Freeze-Dried Grain-Free Toppers: Great for introducing your newly adopted puppy to raw food, use our versatile Toppers.

• Mini Nibs Freeze-Dried Grain Free Dog Food: Available in beef, chicken, duck, rabbit, salmon, and turkey, these mini nibs offer the essential diet your puppy needs in a package that’s easy for you to serve and them to enjoy.

• Mini Patties Freeze-Dried Grain-Free Dog Food: These soft and juicy patties are easy on puppy teeth and gums.

3.  Collar

Your puppy’s collar is essential as it holds a leash and ID tag. We suggest something reflective and wide to provide the utmost security and comfort. And, of course, it should be representative of their personality.

4.  Leash

Many trainers suggest new puppy owners choose a flat lead-style leash for training and walking. Leash laws are present in many cities, so you’ll be following the law in addition to helping your pet learn to walk near you and stay safe.

5.  ID Tag

Though we hope it never happens, sometimes puppies wander from their owners. That’s where a detailed ID tag complete with your name, phone number and address comes in very handy. You can order them online or create one at most pet stores.

6.  Food & Water Bowls

You’ll need a place to serve your pup their delicious raw food and fresh water, so stock up on a few sets of bowls and a feeding mat to keep your floors clean. Look for sturdy, easy-to-clean and non-porous bowls in stainless steel. A platform is a great idea, too, as it will help your puppy eat comfortably without crouching as they grow.

7.  Play, Chew and Cuddle Toys

It may take a while to figure out which kind of player your puppy is (Do you have a  tugger or a fetcher? Or, has a tough chewer joined your family?) Until then, make sure you have a few toys in the play, chew and cuddle categories. Play toys may have ropes and other dangles, chew toys are typically hearty and tough and cuddle toys are soft and plush. Make sure to supervise your puppy as they play to ensure they don’t swallow parts of their toys.

8.  Treats

Treats are essential for many reasons. They help you bond with your dog, provide motivation during training, offer comfort to teething puppies and deliver key nutrients for pups as they grow.

Check out our favorite treats for puppies that are easy on the tummy:

• Beef Nibs Freeze-Dried Treats

• Rabbit Bites Freeze-Dried Treats

• Duck Nibs Freeze-Dried Treats

• VE RAW BAR Freeze-Dried Bully Sticks

• Minnows Freeze-Dried Treats

9. Health Supplies

Don’t forget these essential first-aid and healthcare items for your puppy! The ideal kit includes their paperwork, grooming wipes, medications, brush, shampoo and nail clippers.  Keep your groomer’s information handy for regular trims and pampering.

10. Cleaning Supplies

As your pup explores your home and yard, you’ll need to have some cleaning supplies on hand. Stock up on poop bags and an enzymatic cleaner to remove pesky pet stains from carpet and furniture.

Bonus! Your new puppy will likely have lots of appointments, whether it’s vet visits, training classes or playdates at the dog park. Set up a written or digital calendar so you can keep track of everything related to your puppy.

For more information on Vital Essentials and our full product line, follow us on TikTok and Instagram. And if you have any questions, be sure to check out our FAQ page for answers. Together, we can ensure your pet gets the proper nutrition they deserve.