Puppy Shopping List: What You Really Need

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

A new puppy is a good excuse for a shopping spree, but you do not need to buy everything on the market. A short list of essentials covers the first weeks, and you can add extras as you learn what your puppy needs. Here is a sensible shopping list, sorted by priority.

The essentials

Food and water

• Puppy food. Ask the breeder or rescue what the puppy has been eating and buy the same at first to avoid stomach upsets. If you want to change, do it gradually. Our guide to switching dog food safely explains how.
• Bowls. Stainless steel or ceramic are easy to clean. See our guide to puppy bowls.
• Treats. Small, soft training treats.

Sleeping and containment

• Crate or pen. A safe space for sleeping and times you cannot supervise. See our guide on choosing a crate.
• Bed or blanket. Washable and chew-resistant if possible.
• Baby gates or a playpen. Useful for limiting access. See playpens and gates.

Walking and identification

• Collar or harness. Adjustable and lightweight, with room for growth. See our guide to collars, harnesses and leashes.
• ID tag. Include your phone number. A microchip is also important.
• Leash. A standard six-foot leash is a good start.
• Waste bags.

Toys and chews

• A variety of chew toys for teething. See our guide to the best chew toys for puppies.
• Soft toys, if your puppy likes them, with supervision.
• Puzzle toys and food-dispensing toys for mental stimulation.

Cleaning

• Enzymatic cleaner to remove odors from accidents, which helps prevent repeat marking.
• Paper towels, rags and a mop.
• Stain-resistant covers for bedding or car seats.

Grooming basics

• Brush or comb appropriate for the coat type
• Puppy shampoo
• Nail clippers or grinder
• Toothbrush and pet toothpaste
• Ear cleaner, if recommended by your vet

Our grooming kit checklist goes into more detail.

Health and safety

• A first aid kit. See our dog first aid kit guide.
• Your vet's number and an emergency clinic's details.
• Pet insurance details, if you have a policy.
• A car restraint, such as a crate or harness.

Nice-to-haves

• A second bed or crate for another room
• A snuffle mat
• A cooling mat in hot climates
• A raincoat or sweater for breeds that feel the cold
• A slow feeder bowl for fast eaters
• A pet camera to check on your puppy

What you can skip at first

• Large quantities of food, in case you change brands
• Expensive beds that may be chewed up
• Lots of clothing
• Anything with small parts that could be swallowed
• Retractable leashes, which give less control

Tips for saving money

• Buy adjustable items that grow with your puppy.
• Accept hand-me-downs from friends and family.
• Do not overbuy toys. A few good ones are better than a pile.
• Wait to buy bigger items until you know your puppy's size.

Before you shop

Check your home for hazards using our puppy-proofing guide, and think about the space where your puppy will sleep, eat and play.

How to shop in stages

Spread your purchases across three stages so you do not waste money. Before pickup: crate or pen, bowls, food, collar, ID tag, leash, bed, a few toys and cleaning supplies. In the first two weeks: items you realize you need once you meet your puppy, such as a different size harness, a slow feeder or a car restraint. At three to four months: adult-size items as your puppy's frame becomes clearer, plus training gear such as a long line and a treat pouch. Keep receipts for anything returnable, and ask friends with dogs what they actually used. Most owners say they bought too many toys and too few chews.

The takeaway

A well-chosen set of basics will see you through the first weeks. Focus on safety, comfort and training, and add more as you and your puppy settle in.