New Puppy · August 29, 2026
The New Puppy Checklist: Everything You Need in Week One
Puppy shopping lists online run to fifty items. In reality, week one needs about a dozen things plus a routine. Here is the list we give friends, in the order you will actually use it.
Before the puppy arrives
Set this up the day before, so the first evening is calm.
- Crate sized for adult weight, with a divider.
- Washable bedding — buy two so one is always clean.
- Stainless steel food and water bowls.
- The same food the breeder or shelter was using (switch slowly over 7-10 days).
- Flat collar, ID tag with your phone number, 6-foot leash.
- Enzymatic cleaner for accidents.
- An exercise pen or baby gates to limit the roaming area.
Health and paperwork in week one
Book the first vet appointment within 72 hours of pickup. Bring the vaccination record you were given. Ask about the deworming schedule, flea and tick prevention, and the microchip registration transfer — an unregistered chip helps no one.
The potty and sleep schedule
A puppy can hold their bladder roughly one hour per month of age. Take them out after waking, after eating, after play, and before bed. Consistency beats correction every time.
Grooming: start before it is needed
Handling practice in week one saves years of struggle. Touch the paws, ears and mouth daily for thirty seconds. A first bath can usually happen around 8 weeks with a mild, tear-free formula; before that, a waterless foam keeps things clean without stressing a tiny puppy.
Start dental care early too. Puppies accept a water additive or finger brushing far more easily than adults do.
What can wait
Fancy beds (they get chewed), a full toy bin, and expensive training gear can all wait a month. Spend that budget on a training class instead — U.S. puppy socialization classes typically open at 10-12 weeks after the first vaccine round.
The takeaway
Crate, food, vet visit, potty schedule and gentle handling. Get those five right and the rest of the checklist is optional.