Necessities
Find a vet! Make an appointment asap as it can be hard to get on the schedule sometimes and tell them you got a new puppy and would like to get established at the vet. Take your paperwork that we give you with you so that they can add it to the puppy’s file.
Decide how you want to train your puppy. Whether you find a private company, commercial company such as PetSmart or do it yourself because you have trained many dogs before, the puppy is going to need training. We have found that others prefer training in their own home so we have partnered with Baxter and Bella The Online Puppy School to get you a discount on a lifetime membership of invaluable information and help. Check it out! It’s amazing! Discount Code: ABBOTTFAMILYFARM
Food and water bowl - there are a lot of options out there so it mostly is personal preference (we like ones that you can throw in the dishwasher to clean periodically)
Food - We feed Nature’s Domain Turkey and Sweet Potato All Stages Food (it is Costco’s brand but it is the same food as Diamond Naturals which you can find at most pet or farm store)
We all want a long happy life with our new puppy. NuVet Plus Supplements will help with just that! They are an all natural supplement that is only sold through breeders, vets and pet professionals so you must call them with the order code 728255 in order to receive the discount pricing through the Pet Preferred Program.
Small tooth metal comb
Pin brush
Shampoo and Conditioner (it is better to get separate items than a 2 in 1 type product)
Collar or harness - lots of options again here. Pick one that can grow with your puppy.
Leash - lots of options again here. Stick with a good 6 foot leash to start
Toys - Puppies need toys to keep their brains occupied and help them stay out of trouble. You may want to start with a variety and then see what your puppy is fond of as every puppy is different!
Chew toys - antlers, horns or Kongs are best for teething
Training Treats - tiny treats to help train puppy, you do not want the training treats to replace the regular food.
Many of our favorite items you can find on our Resources page!
Optional but Highly Recommended
Pet Insurance - We have partnered with Trupanion Pet Insurance to give you a great deal! No waiting period and no cost to activate. Don’t forget the Promo Code! It is BR1AF7122 or BR2AF7122 for NY residents.
Crate - if you are planning on crate training, be sure to have it before the puppy arrives so that you start using it from day 1. We have an example of this on our Resources page.
Crate cover - Canines are den animals and feel comfortable and safe in a small dark area. The crate cover helps create that environment for them. You can buy them to fit the dimensions of your crate.
Bedding for crate - You will want to have a few of these on hand in case the puppy has an accident or so you have something in there for nap time while you are washing the others.
Dog Bed/Pillow - Something that the puppy can call its own. Washable is ideal.
Playpen - If you would like to be able to keep your puppy contained, a playpen is a wonderful option!
Waterproof dog mats are an excellent option for the floor if you use a playpen or throw it on the chair or couch!
Bitter Apple Spray - this is a chewing deterrent. Some people like to spray it on the bottom of furniture, or anywhere the puppy may want to chew. They say it doesn’t stain but I would be sure to test it in an inconspicuous spot first.
Potty Bell/Doorbell - Some people choose to bell train the puppy to tell its family when it needs to go potty.
Dog door - Some prefer to have the dog use a dog door. These are relatively easy to install with a few tools.
Wireless dog fence especially if you do not have a completely fenced yard
Car restraint - there is a seatbelt style or a booster seat option
Puzzles
Need to get ready and have supplies for your puppy? We frequently have people asking what they need so we have put together a page of Resources and a First Time Puppy Owner Supply list so that you can look through our suggestions and choose what is right for your situation. If you are unsure, please don’t hesitate to ask!