You’ve found your new best friend, you’ve met them and you think the feeling’s mutual, and now it’s time for the next step: to bring them to their forever home.
It’s at this point you might be panicking What do I need for a puppy? While the list of puppy essentials you need can be long, we’ve stripped it down to the new dog essentials.
So, if you’re asking the question What do you need for a dog? read our canine checklist and you’ll have your furry friend’s forever home set up in no time, so you can get on with having adventures together.
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Feeding your dog
Dog food
Whether you’re bringing home a rescue animal or getting a brand-new puppy, you’re going to need to feed your dog, so this is the first thing on our dog essentials list.
If you’re wondering what puppies need when it comes to nutrition, if your pup is under a year old, you need to ensure they have a complete food which will help them grow into a healthy adult dog.
To begin with, it’s best to stick to the same food the breeder or rescue centre has been feeding your dog – they should be able to tell you which brand – and gradually add in any new food in increasing ratios over a period of a couple of weeks. This is so you don’t upset your pup’s tum which, let’s be honest, might already be a bit sensitive after the upheaval of moving to a new home.
Your dog food will have information on portion sizes or daily amounts to feed which can then be split over two or three meals – it’s important to stick to this so your pup is at optimum weight.
Superfood 65 complete dog food | British free-range chicken
- This is a superior grain-free, hypoallergenic complete dry dog food for adult dogs. It’s packed full of fresh British free-range chicken with complementary superfoods of ginger, pomegranate, kale, artichoke, and blueberry. The highly nutritious recipe is made with freshly prepared, UK-sourced raw meat, gently cooked to protect the valuable protein.
Food bowl and water bowl
After getting your dog food, you’ll need something to put it in. This can range from a traditional dog bowl to more innovative designs such as puzzle feeders or slow feeders which engage your dog’s mind as well as their stomach.
Of course, you’ll also need to give your dog fresh water throughout the day, whether that’s in a dog bowl or a doggy water fountain.
You may also want to purchase a wipeable mat to go under the food and water bowls if your dog is a more ‘enthusiastic’ eater.
Scruffs Ceramic
- This collection of ageless designs provides a long-lasting choice that won't tip over and is incredibly easy to clean. They come in a range of sizes and colours, they're bite resistant and they won't break the bank.
Training treats
They say you can’t teach an old dog new tricks, but we reckon they can be persuaded with a tasty treat or two.
Whether you’re teaching your puppy the basics or wanting to help settle in a rescue dog, a few training treats can go a long way. You can buy these in packets of bite-sized morsels or make your own out of chopped-up chicken – or even sub in some of their dog food.
Just be aware of how much your hungry hound is consuming and reduce their meal portions if needed.
Natures Menu grain-free chicken real meaty treats for dogs
- This irresistible, meaty dog treat is made with 95% chicken and pork, so it’s perfect for reward-based training. As well as this, it’s made without grains and contains no artificial flavours or colours.
Walking your dog
A collar
Dogs love nothing better than walkies, and getting out and about and having a good sniff of their environment can calm them down and help them settle into their new surroundings. As well as this, walkies are a great way to socialise your pup as they can meet so many new doggy friends.
If you’re wondering “what do you need for a puppy coming home?” this is one thing you can’t skip; it’s the law in the UK that all dogs must have a collar with an ID tag, with the tag detailing the owner’s name and address. If your dog is found without either, you could be landed with a fine of £2,000, so it’s important to get this sorted before you set foot out your front door.
FatFace spotty bees dog collar
- If you’ve got a fashionable Fido, you’ll love this design from the FatFace collection of dog collars. This beautiful blue collar has an adorable print of cute bees all over and a lining of colourful polka dots. It is made to last and created with tough materials and attaches with a strong buckle fastening.
A lead
Also an essential for walkies is a lead, and there are so many to choose from.
You could go for a lightweight, 2-metre lead for your pup’s first walks, which will give them the freedom to explore their new world. For training recall, a long line will come in handy so you can ensure your dog comes back to you even if they have somewhat ‘selective’ hearing. And some people favour a retractable lead for ease of use.
Ruffwear Roamer dog lead
- The Ruffwear Roamer is an adjustable running dog lead that can be hand-held or worn around the waist for a dynamic hands-free dog walking experience. Wavelength™ stretch webbing keeps humans and canines connected while allowing an extended range for roaming and exploring.
A harness
Some dog owners like to use a harness for walkies instead of a collar, with the reasoning being that often they are more comfortable, harder to slip out of and better at spreading any tension from the lead out over the chest rather than the neck.
There are so many styles to choose from, but if you’re looking for a harness for your dog, it’s best to choose a style that keeps their shoulders as free as possible and avoid those that fasten across the shoulders.
Ruffwear Flagline dog harness
- This lightweight and comfortable harness is constructed with simple fastenings and six points of adjustment for an optimal fit. Its comfortable and balanced design is ideal for lifting and assisting your dog over obstacles, with a padded handle and a load-dispersing chest panel. There are multiple lead attachment points and debris-resistant liner, as well as a reflective trim for visibility in low-light conditions and a light loop for attaching a beacon.
A seatbelt or harness for the car
If you’re setting off on adventures away from home, you’re going to need a way to safely transport your precious pup.
There are lots of ways of doing this, from doggy seatbelts and soft crates to grilles that separate a section of your car. One thing’s for certain, however – the Highway Code states that a dog must be suitably restrained so they can’t distract the driver and won’t injure themselves if you have to stop suddenly, so you’ll need to make sure they can travel safely.
Bunty seatbelt restraint clip
- In the event of a fast-breaking situation or tight corner, it’s quite easy for our dogs to go flying – this seatbelt restraint clip is a great way to keep them comfortable and safe.
Playtime with your dog
Toys
It’s a fact: dogs need to play. Having fun is good for dogs’ health; it can help them relax, give their body a good workout and even strengthens their bond with us!
However your dog likes to play, there’s a toy they will adore so they can chase, squeak, chew, tug, fetch and herd to their heart’s content. Just make sure that you are supervising them in case they get a bit carried away and accidentally munch a bit of their toy.
Chuckit! Max glow ball
- What dog doesn’t enjoy a game of fetch? With Chuckit!'s Max glow ball, you and your pup can enjoy exciting, high-visibility fetch, even after dark. For extended play, the Max glow ball recharges in seconds under a bright flashlight. The glow-in-the-dark Chuckit! ball features a photo-luminescent material that is both eye-catching and safe for pets.
What dogs need for sleeping
A crate
After all that playing, your pup will want a nap! Many dog owners choose to crate train their dog, so they’ve got a safe and cosy space to chill out in whenever they want 40 winks.
Crate training can take a lot of time and patience, so it’s good to set yourself up for success – choose a crate that’s big enough for your pup to turn around in and make sure it’s nice and relaxing, with lots of cuddly blankets and even some favourite toys.
Put the crate somewhere in the house that’s away from all of the action so your hound can get some undisturbed shut-eye. Some owners feed their dogs in their crates to begin with to help them associate it with good things (aka food), and some even like to cover it with a blanket to create a little chill-out den.
Henry Wag folding fabric travel dog crate
- This folding fabric pet crate is made using high-quality materials and is ideal for use in the home or when travelling. It has an easy zip assembly with fabric mesh window panels on three sides with flap covers and an inner washable floor panel with foam insulation. Each crate includes a faux sheepskin/nylon pad, carry case and pegs to secure the crate to soft ground – allowing your pup to relax in style even when you’re out and about.
A bed
It’s worth noting that, no matter how hard you try, some dogs just will not like their crate, and that’s OK. But they’ll still need somewhere cosy to sleep.
There are an almost limitless number of styles of bed, ranging from traditional baskets with soft blankets inside them, to anxiety-busting doughnut beds that some say can soothe your dog.
It’s best to look for a style that’s washable or wipeable, especially if you’re toilet training your dog!
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home dog bed
- These deep duvet beds are filled up to create a squishy sleeping space for your pup, and even have some recycled fibre for the filling. The cream fabric is brushed cotton, creating a nice and cosy place to relax. With a fun all-over patterned plush on the outside, it will certainly add some character to your home. Also, your purchase will help Battersea Dogs and Cats Home to continue their important work.
Toilet training with your dog
Poo bags
Whether your dog will settle in instantly or take a little longer to feel secure, one thing is for certain – they’re going to poop.
Any responsible owner knows they need to clean up after their dog, so you can never really have too many poo bags.'s club
If you want to help the environment, you can look for bags that are biodegradable, and many people opt for a little dispenser that clips onto their dog’s lead, so you’re never caught short.
Earth Rated lavender-scented dog poop bags
- These poo bags come with a 100% leak-proof guarantee, which is reassuring when you’re disposing of you-know-what. As well as this, these extra-thick bags can hold any size poop securely and are designed to block unpleasant smells, as well as being eco-friendly. Picking up poop has never been so easy!
Puppy pads
If you’re toilet training your new dog, or live in a house without a garden, puppy pads can be really helpful in teaching your dog to go to the toilet in a designated spot.
They are great for protecting carpets or flooring, and can also make cleaning up easy, as you can just pop the used pad in the bin and get a fresh one out.
Simple Solution puppy training pads
- These pads are beloved by new pet owners, especially those with puppies who are still apprentices in the toilet training department!
Enzyme spray
Even the best-trained pup might have an accident as they settle into their new home, so it’s important to have some enzyme spray handy for cleaning up any oopsies.
Enzyme spray helps reduce stains and completely neutralises odours, making your house smell fresh and reducing the chance your dog will go to the toilet again in the same spot.
Simple Solution stain and odour remover
Grooming your dog
A brush
It’s important to keep that fluffy fur in tip-top condition, especially if your dog has a curly coat like a poodle, or a double coat like a husky.
To maintain your doggy’s do, you’ll need to brush him or her regularly, and so you’ll need to get some grooming tools. A lot of dog groomers favour a slicker brush which is great at detangling, while for other breeds you’ll need a de-shedder to work through thick double coats.
When brushing, it’s important to check hard-to-reach areas such as armpits for any knots, and you can give their paws and ears a good once over too to check no nasty seeds or burrs are stuck in there.
Mikki smooth & stroke dog grooming brush
- This soothing brush is perfect for short to medium-haired pets who are not so keen on being groomed. The rubber surface massages and stimulates the skin and gently removes dead hairs. The other side is a velvet material which distributes natural oils and leaves the coat with a beautiful shine.
Doggy shampoo
Dogs and stinky smells go together like wet noses and waggy tails, so it’s inevitable that your pup will roll in some ‘pooch perfume’ at some point. Even without rolling in poop, it’s highly likely that your hound will get muddy and pongy on their adventures, which means it’ll be time for the dreaded bath.
If you’ve got a puppy, you’ll need to use a dedicated shampoo that’s gentle on their fur and skin. You can also get special shampoos for dogs that have skin issues, are a lighter colour or need extra moisture, and you can even buy extra-deodorising shampoos for pups who have rolled in the stinkiest of smells: fox poo.
When it’s time to dry your pampered pooch, old towels will do the job, although some people swear by chamois-style towels that can reduce drying time – particularly handy if you’ve got a very fluffy Fido.
Tropiclean berry and coconut dog shampoo
- You’ll want to shower your pup in cuddles after using this shampoo! Raspberry and mango provide a deep luxurious clean while oatmeal and coconut replenish natural moisture for a coat that is soft and huggable. Natural protein and raspberry extract replenish the natural moisture balance of the skin and hair, leaving behind a shiny, luxurious coat that smells delicious. It’s safe to use for dogs 12 weeks and older – and if you love the smell, you can even use it too!
Ear cleaner
Dogs with floppy ears, such as cocker spaniels and basset hounds, can be susceptible to getting ear infections as their super-cute ears don’t allow air to circulate well, making them a great breeding ground for bacteria.
It’s important to keep an eye on your dog’s ears and clean them regularly with a specialist cleaner. Luckily, our friends at Beaphar have put together a guide to help you keep your lovely dog’s lugholes squeaky clean.
Johnson's gentle dog ear and eye wipes
- These wipes are safe, gentle, hygienic and PH balanced. They are specially formulated for the eyes and ears of dogs, and help to keep your pet fresh and clean without irritation.
Toothpaste and toothbrush
It’s not just ears that need special attention; our dogs’ teeth need looking after in the same way ours do. There are a few ways to do this, but none beats the good, old-fashioned toothpaste and toothbrush.
To make the process more appealing for your dog, you can get specially flavoured toothpastes and smaller toothbrushes designed for our canines’ canines – forget having minty fresh breath; how about liver flavour instead?
Techmira CleanyTeeth dog toothbrush starter kit
- The CleanyTeeth starter kit allows you to clean your dog’s teeth effectively and stress-free at home, without a vet visit. The CleanyTeeth dog toothbrush brushes teeth and gums and prevents tooth decay, inflammation and tartar in dogs. This starter kit contains a dog toothbrush with ultrasound, two brush heads, one three-sided brush head and canine toothpaste.
Flea and worming medicine
It’s not just our pups’ outsides that need looking after, but their insides too, and it’s really important that they have regular flea and worm medicine to ensure they stay as healthy as possible.
There are lots of different brands of medicine and different ways to administer it, such as tablets or ointments; it’s best to consult your vet to see which one is best for your dog. While this medicine is an added (but necessary) expense, you can often save money through a subscription service.
Frontline Plus dog flea treatment
- Frontline Plus® for dogs features an advanced formula, that kills fleas on your pet within 24 hours. Unlike some other flea treatments, it targets both fleas and ticks on your pet to help protect them from the discomfort and diseases these parasites cause. Plus, it stops the flea eggs that fall off your dog from hatching in your home.
Treat your dog to a new adventure
Now you know what to buy for a puppy, what's next? There’s no better way to bond with your new dog than to spend special time together, so why not treat them to your undivided attention on a dog-friendly holiday? We have a wide range of dog-friendly cottages around the UK where you can sniff out new adventures together.
Disclaimer: Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of writing,
please ensure you check carefully before making any decisions based on the contents within this article.