Welcome back! Let’s make sure you have a good game plan when you hit the pet store to stock up on the necessities for your new pup!

This puppy supplies shopping list covers the essential items you should buy before bringing a puppy home. If you want a deeper guide explaining why each item matters, see our complete Puppy Supplies Checklist guide.

We’ve also noted some nice-to-haves so you can stock up smart (and skip the $140 organic bamboo puppy mattress… for now).

📍 Pro Tip: Start with the basics. You’ll figure out what your puppy actually needs once you’ve lived together for a few days.


The Essentials

High-quality puppy food (same brand as the breeder/shelter at first)

Stainless steel or ceramic food and water bowls

Crate with divider (metal, not soft-sided for chewers)

Dog Bedding (inexpensive and washable—chewing happens)

Adjustable collar and ID tag with your phone number

4–6 foot leash (nylon or rope, not retractable)

Front-clip harness (adjustable, secure)

Training treats (small, soft, high-value)

Chew toys (e.g., frozen Kongs, puppy-safe Nylabones)

Poop bags + holder

Enzymatic cleaner (for accidents)

📌 Pro Tip: Invest in a Fi Collar or Whistle Go Explore tracking collar and keep your pup safe.


🧼 Grooming Basics

Dog-safe shampoo (puppy-specific if possible)

Brush (type depends on your dog’s coat, i.e. Slicker Brush for long haired breeds)

Nail clippers or Dremel nail grinder

Dog toothpaste and toothbrush (start early!)

Cotton pads and ear cleaner (vet-approved)


🧸 Nice-to-Haves (But Not Day-One Essentials)

Puzzle toys or snuffle mats for mental stimulation

Baby gates to block off rooms

Clicker (if using clicker training)

Travel carrier or seatbelt harness

Food storage container

Lick mats or slow-feeder bowls

First aid kit (see Bonus Chapter 7)


✨ Enjoy this checklist?
If you found this helpful, the book is packed with 22 chapters, 8 checklists, and step-by-step advice to get you through every puppy milestone—without losing your sanity.

📘 Buy the book on Amazon →

Not quite ready?
Check out some of our other free tools:

Puppy Proofing Checklist

→ [Kids & Puppies Starter Pack

](/resources/kids-and-puppies-starter-pack/)→ Lost Dog Playbook

Not sure which dog fits your life and family? Head over to our Meet the Breeds page to explore the most popular and beloved breeds.