New Puppy Checklist

Taking on a dog is a big commitment and it’s important to consider which dog is right for you.

New puppy shopping list

Food and water bowls: Your puppy’s food and water bowls should be kept separate. Stainless steel, non-tip bowls are ideal as they are robust and don’t absorb odours.

Food: A complete puppy food is recommended, especially as it must contain all the nutrients they need to grow and develop. We’d recommend Burgess puppy food! 

Treats: Treats are handy to use as a training incentive and can encourage bonding. Be careful not to overfeed treats and remember to take treats into account when working out your dog’s daily feeding allowance.

Bed: Select a bed that will suit your puppy’s size whilst allowing some room for it to grow. Place it in a quiet corner where your puppy can feel secure and can escape from scary experiences while they get used to their new environment. Put a blanket from their first home in their new bed. This can help them settle with familiar smells from their mother.

Toys: Chew toys are the perfect deterrent to stop your puppy chewing your household items! They also provide enrichment, so your puppy isn’t as likely to get bored. Look for an age appropriate chew toy that they can’t break up easily and potentially swallow.

Collar & lead: Once your puppy has had all of their vaccinations, they’re ready for their first walk. You may choose to have a collar, harness or both – just don’t forget the lead … or poo bags!

Puppy gate: Think about installing a puppy gate in your home to control the entry or exits your pet has access to. A puppy gate can also limit the movement to a particular room. This can protect your home from the destructive teething stage or for piece of mind! You’ll know that your puppy will be safe in their environment while you’re out of the house.

Puppy mats: An essential for toilet training, puppy mats also protect your flooring from toilet accidents!

Grooming equipment: Whether you have a puppy that will need help shedding their coat or a non-moulting puppy that has easily matted fur, you’re going to need some grooming essentials as it grows! A suitable puppy/dog brush, nail clippers, shampoo and conditioner are all handy items.


Other puppy essentials

Before you bring your new puppy home, there are a few other essentials that you may want to consider. Planning ahead can save time and will help to make those first weeks with your new puppy stress free! 

Prep your house: Make sure your home is puppy friendly by removing anything that could be harmful such as loose wires or cables. Securely store away chemicals or cleaning products and cover pieces of furniture that your puppy might be tempted to chew on! 

Pet insurance: It’s wise to arrange pet insurance for your puppy to help cover the cost of future vet bills. This could save you thousands of pounds if your pet becomes sick or injured. Check out our blog for more information on the cost of owning a puppy.

First vet visit: Register your puppy with a vet as soon as you can. They will check their general health and discuss vaccinations and preventative treatment to keep disease, fleas and worms at bay.

Microchip: In 2016 new legislation made microchipping your dog a legal requirement. You can discuss this with your veterinarian and arrange for your puppy to be microchipped during your first vet appointment. 

Arrange a pet sitter: If you will be leaving your puppy alone for any considerable length of time you may want to consider employing a certified pet sitter or dog walker. Your puppy is likely to need feeding regularly and then letting outside. A good pet sitter can also provide company, entertainment and training for your new friend.

Quick tip

A dog will invite you to play by crouching on its forelimbs and will bark and wag its tail. This is called the 'play bow'.
Product image for Sensitive Puppy Food

Sensitive Puppy Food

from £7.00£43.99 or subscribe and save 10%
Product image for Supadog Puppy Rich in Chicken

Supadog Puppy Rich in Chicken

from £7.99£30.98

Transitioning to Burgess dog food

Transition your dogs diet over a period of 7-10 days by gradually reducing the old food and replacing with Burgess.
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Do you need more advice?

To help you find the right food for your pet have a look at our product range.

Alternatively you can call our free consumer care line on +44 1405 862241 between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Our dedicated team of pet experts will help you make the right choice.

If you should have any concerns about the health of your pet, always consult a vet.