8 Puppy Necessities for First-Time Dog Owners: Don’t Get Caught Unprepared
If you’re reading this, you’re probably getting a puppy. Exciting, right? Those tiny paws, those big, soulful eyes… and that endless list of things you need to buy.
Because here’s the thing: puppies are basically adorable, furry tornadoes of chaos. And if you don’t have the right stuff ready, they’ll turn your house into a disaster zone faster than you can say “chewed-up shoes.”
But don’t panic. I’ve got your back with this no-nonsense list of eight absolute must-haves for first-time puppy owners. Get these, and you’ll be prepared for just about anything your fluffy little monster can throw at you (sometimes literally).
1. A Durable Crate: Your Puppy’s Safe Space (And Your Sanity Saver)
- Newly enhanced with added security features to keep your pet safe | Slide-bolt door latch now feature patented Paw Block…
- iCrate single door dog crate measures 30L x 19 x 21 inches and is suitable for medium dog breeds with an adult weight of…
- Dog crate includes a divider panel, durable & leak-proof plastic pan, protective rubber feet, carrying handle, and custo…

You might think crates are cruel, but hear me out. A crate is basically a puppy’s bedroom—a place where they can chill, feel safe, and not destroy everything you love. It’s also essential for potty training (no, seriously).
- Get the Right Size: Your puppy should be able to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. No need for a mansion—just enough space.
- Comfy Bedding: Make it cozy with a soft blanket or a puppy-safe bed. Just keep in mind that if they decide to shred it, that’s a them problem.
- Bonus Tip: If your puppy cries the first few nights, that’s normal. They’re not emotionally manipulating you—they’re just adjusting.

2. Puppy-Safe Chew Toys: Because Your Shoes Deserve to Live
If you value your shoes, your furniture, and, well, your fingers, get a variety of puppy-safe chew toys. Puppies are basically tiny land sharks, and they have to chew on something.
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- Choose Different Textures: Rubber toys, soft plushies, and durable ropes. Variety is the spice of (puppy) life.
- Teething Toys: Puppies teethe, and those little needle teeth can be vicious. Frozen teething toys can be a lifesaver.
- Avoid Dangerous Stuff: Anything that can splinter, break, or be swallowed is a big no. That means no cooked bones, no cheap plastic, and no “indestructible” toys that are anything but.
3. A Comfy Collar and Leash: For Stylish Walkies

Your puppy isn’t ready for long hikes just yet, but you’ll still need a comfortable collar and leash for short potty trips and basic training.
- Adjustable Collar: Puppies grow fast, so get one that can be resized. Make sure it’s snug but not too tight—two fingers should fit between the collar and your puppy’s neck.
- Lightweight Leash: Start with a 4-6 foot leash. Avoid retractable leashes for now—unless you enjoy the idea of your puppy catapulting into traffic.
- ID Tag: Get one with your phone number. Because yes, puppies are escape artists.
4. High-Quality Puppy Food: Because Nutrition Matters (Even If They’d Eat Trash)
- Real chicken is the first ingredient in this dog food for puppies to help provide the protein he needs for strong, growi…
- Purina ONE puppy kibble made with DHA, a nutrient found in mothers’ milk, to support vision and brain development and fo…
- Easily digestible puppy dog food featuring a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients, including omega-6 fatty acids, vita…

Your puppy might eat like a wild animal, but that doesn’t mean you should feed them like one. High-quality puppy food is a must.
- Check the Ingredients: Meat should be the first ingredient. Avoid fillers like corn or soy, because your puppy deserves better.
- Breed-Specific Options: Some puppies (like large breeds) have specific nutritional needs. Don’t guess—ask your vet.
- Portion Control: Don’t overfeed. That chubby puppy belly might be cute, but it can lead to serious health problems.
5. Puppy Pee Pads: Your Floor’s New Best Friend
- INCLUDES: 100 Regular-size standard-absorbency puppy pee pads; ideal for puppy training, senior dogs, car trips, and mor…
- 5-LAYER PROTECTION: Multi-layer construction with quick-dry surface and absorbent core that turns liquid into gel on con…
- LEAKPROOF: Plastic lining keeps floors safe from damage; plastic border on all 4 sides to prevent overflow

Unless you have superhuman reflexes, there will be accidents. Save yourself some cleaning time with puppy pee pads.
- Absorbent and Leak-Proof: Cheap ones are a waste of time. Trust me.
- Strategic Placement: Keep one by the door (so they learn to go outside) and another in their “safe space.”
- Gradually Wean Off: Don’t rely on these forever. Once your puppy starts getting the hang of potty training, start phasing them out.
6. A Puppy Gate: Control the Chaos
- Easy to Install: This dog gate measures 29×38 inches and is a perfect fit for gate widths ranging from 32 to 35 inches. …
- Tips: Before purchase, please measure the size of the required installation area , and reserve 1-2 inches of space for a…
- Dog Safety Mesh Gates: Our mesh gates are suitable for most dogs and can be used as isolation gates to provide a secure …

Puppies have a talent for getting into trouble, so a puppy gate is a lifesaver. It’s the difference between “safe exploration” and “oh my gosh, did you just eat that?”
- Block Off No-Go Zones: Like the kitchen (hello, hot stoves) or the bathroom (toilet water is not a beverage).
- Easy Setup: Get one that’s easy to open for you but impossible for your clever little rascal.
- Portable: A freestanding gate can be moved around as needed.
7. A Puppy Brush and Shampoo: Keep That Fur Fabulous

Even if you have a short-haired breed, your puppy will need grooming. And if you have a fluffy breed? Get ready for a lifetime of brushing.
- Soft Brush for Puppies: Start with a gentle brush to help them get used to the process.
- Puppy-Safe Shampoo: Human shampoo is too harsh for their sensitive skin. Choose a gentle, tear-free formula.
- Make It a Routine: Get them used to baths and brushing now, before they grow into a squirming, soapy mess.
8. A Stash of Training Treats: Your Secret Weapon
- Highly Palatable with natural pork liver base
- 500 treats per bag!
- Only 1.5 calories per treat

Training a puppy is a little like negotiating with a tiny, furry terrorist. But you’ve got the ultimate bargaining chip—treats.
- Small, Tasty, and Healthy: You’re going to be giving a lot of these, so make sure they’re not just empty calories.
- Variety for Picky Puppies: Some puppies love chicken, some are obsessed with cheese. Experiment to find their favorite.
- Reward Fast: Puppies have a two-second attention span. Praise and treat them immediately when they do something right.
Honorable Mentions (Because Let’s Be Real, You’ll Need These Too)
- Puppy-Safe Cleaning Spray: For when they inevitably pee on something they shouldn’t.
- A Cute Puppy Bed: Even if they end up stealing your spot on the couch.
- Food and Water Bowls: Non-tip ones are your best bet unless you love mopping.

Final Thoughts: Ready to Be a Puppy Pro?
Your first week with a puppy is a wild ride, but having these essentials will make it a whole lot easier.
Sure, your new furry best friend will still turn your life upside down, but at least you’ll be prepared.
And when they look up at you with those big, innocent eyes (right after chewing through your favorite shoes), you’ll remember why it’s all worth it 🙂

I’ve spent 10+ years in dog training, digging into what makes dogs (and their humans) tick. At Smart Dog Learning, I share my no-nonsense, fun approach to training so you can enjoy life with a well-behaved, happy pup—no boring lectures, just practical results 😉