Bringing home a new puppy can be a very challenging and exciting experience, often all at once. With wet kisses and wagging tails, it’s easy to let them into our hearts and homes. Before you make the leap, be sure you’re prepared to make that transitional puppy period a comfortable—and stylish—one for all involved. Check out our new puppy checklist to make sure you’ve thought of everything.
1. Collar & Leash
A basic collar and leash set might be one of the most important tools you’ll need to keep your new puppy happy and exercised. Go colorful and comfortable, and be sure you choose a heavy-duty collar with sturdy hardware. To get the right size and fit, use a tape measure to measure your pet’s neck, then add two to three inches. A perfectly snug fit allows just enough room for you to fit two fingers between your dog’s neck and his collar. We’re partial to our Leopard Collar, but then again, we can’t help but love a classic gingham collar too!
2. Water & Food Bowls
Pet food dishes are a necessary and constant presence in the kitchen or mud room, so make them attractive. Go sleek with easy-clean stainless steel or choose a cute printed ceramic that’s also microwave safe. Keep a stylishly fun, wipe-clean mat under your bowls to protect floors from your messy eater. Got a big puppy? Consider an elevated stand for larger breeds.
3. Food Bins & Treat Storage
Save yourself the hassle, and make your pet’s food and treats easily accessible. Choose containers with a fun theme or motif, like our Farmhouse Pet Food Canister or our Chevron Stripe Pet Food Canister, and there’s no need to hide them away. Plus, airtight lids keep food fresher longer. It’s a win-win.
4. Dog Bed
Look for the right amount of loft and cushiness that’s easy for pets to move around on and make a nest. A zip-off, machine-washable cover, like our Lounge Dog Bed, is essential, so you don’t have to worry about any accidents. And if you find one in a gorgeous color or pattern that complements your décor, all the better!
5. Crate Cover
Crate training is a natural part of housebreaking your new puppy—and offers a safe place of refuge. A crate cover helps further reduce stress by blocking out distractions around the house. Forgo the institutional gray cover and transform your dog’s den into a chic boudoir with a sassy pattern that also perks up your room. Choose one that’s machine washable and easily rolls up and down.
6. Chew Toys
Not only is chewing important for your puppy’s oral health, it also keeps him occupied and out of trouble. To prevent boredom and destructive behavior, give your puppy a variety of toys and switch them out weekly. Keep things tidy and toss those toys into a dedicated storage basket, like our Hemp Dog Toy Storage basket, and keep it in a consistent location.
Lastly, it’s wise to puppy-proof your home. Making smart, pet-friendly choices around the house go a long way in ensuring a stress-free environment—and a happy pup. Use patterned doormats in a hard-working material like coir, and cover floors in your busiest rooms with indoor-outdoor rugs or natural fiber rugs that are as durable as they are beautiful. And if you’re considering a new sofa or ottoman, choose an easy care fabric, such as Sunbrella or microfiber. That goes for drapery, too. It’s all worth it in the long run.
