Puppy Essentials: What You Need When Bringing Your Puppy Home

Puppy Essentials UK:

What You Need When Bringing Your Puppy Home.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting journey, but it requires thoughtful preparation to ensure your furry friend thrives. This blog covers the essential items and steps to take when your puppy arrives, including choosing a vet, researching breed-specific needs, finding training classes and dog walks, managing waste, socialising calmly, and starting collar and lead training. We’ll also highlight the benefits of AAC’s 18-in-1 vitamins and probiotics for dogs, available at a great price online now, and provide feeding advice to keep your puppy’s tummy settled.

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1. Essential Supplies for Your Puppy

Before your puppy arrives, gather these must-have items to ensure a smooth transition:

Feeding Supplies

Puppy Food: Continue feeding the same food the breeder used to avoid upsetting your puppy’s tummy. Contact the breeder to confirm the type (raw, tinned, complete, or dried), brand, and feeding schedule. Transition gradually if you plan to switch (see below for details).

Food and Water Bowls: Choose non-slip, stainless steel or ceramic bowls for hygiene and durability. Avoid plastic, which can harbor bacteria.

Treats: Stock up on puppy-safe, soft, small treats for training and rewarding good behaviour.

Sleeping and Comfort

Crate or Bed: A crate provides a safe, den-like space, while a simple dog bed works if you prefer not to crate train. Avoid expensive dog beds, as puppies may have accidents or chew bedding. Wait until your puppy is older and house-trained before investing in pricier beds.

Bedding: Use vet bed or cheaper alternatives, which are ideal for wicking moisture away from the puppy during nighttime accidents, keeping them dry and comfortable. These are washable, durable, and available at pet stores or online.

Blankets: Add affordable, washable blankets for warmth, as they may get soiled or chewed.

Collar, Lead, and IDCollar and Lead:

Get a lightweight, adjustable collar and a sturdy lead for walks. Ensure the collar fits properly—two fingers should fit between it and your puppy’s neck. Start collar and lead training with short, fun sessions using treats to make it enjoyable, as many puppies find this challenging at first.

ID Tag: UK law requires dogs to wear an ID tag with your name, address, and postcode. Have this ready before your puppy’s first outing.

Harness (Optional): A harness can be more comfortable for small breeds or during training. Be sure to buy one that does not restict shoulder movement.

Grooming Essentials

Brush and Comb: Choose tools suited to your puppy’s coat type (e.g., slicker brushes for long-haired breeds, bristle brushes for short-haired ones). Your dog will love a grooming glove available in store..

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Puppy Shampoo: Use a gentle, puppy-safe shampoo for occasional baths.

Nail Clippers: Puppy-specific clippers help keep nails trimmed to prevent discomfort.

Toys and Enrichment

Chew Toys: Durable chew toys are essential for teething puppies to prevent destructive chewing.

Interactive Toys: Puzzle or treat-dispensing toys keep your puppy mentally engaged.

Soft Toys: A cuddly, puppy-safe toy can provide comfort, especially at night.

Tip.

Protect Your Belongings:

 Don’t let your puppy play with personal 

items you’re not willing to have destroyed, 

like old slippers or children’s toys.

 For example, giving them an old slipper

 may lead them to chew new ones, as they

 can’t distinguish between the two. 

The same applies to kids’ toys—keep them out of reach to avoid confusion

 and damage.

Waste Management

Poo Bags:

Stock up on reliable poo bags for walks. Look for easy-to-open, odor-locking bags that can handle your puppy’s waste.

Garden Waste Bucket: Get a designated, sealable bucket for garden waste to keep your outdoor space clean and hygienic.

2. Feeding Your Puppy:

Stick to the Breeder’s Diet and Transition

Gradually

Your puppy may be greedy when it first comes home, used to competing for food with littermates, or it may be wary and eat cautiously. Don’t worry—this is normal, and things should settle within a few days as they adjust to their new environment.

Here’s how to manage their diet:

Continue the Breeder’s Food

Why It Matters: Puppies are accustomed to the breeder’s food, and their digestive systems are adapted to it. Abrupt changes can cause diarrhea, vomiting, or appetite loss.

How to Do It: Ask the breeder for details on the food type (raw, tinned, complete, or dried), brand, and feeding schedule. Replicate this for at least 1–2 weeks to keep your puppy’s tummy stable.

Portion Sizes: Follow the breeder’s guidelines based on your puppy’s age, weight, and breed to avoid overfeeding.

Transitioning to a New Diet

If you want to switch to a different food, do so gradually to prevent digestive upset:

Days 1–3: Mix 75% breeder’s food with 25% new food.

Days –6: Shift to a 50/50 mix.

Days 7–10: Use 25% breeder’s food and 75% new food.

Day 11+: Fully transition to the new food, monitoring for signs of distress like loose stools or vomiting.

Tip: If issues arise, slow the transition or consult a vet.

Types of Puppy Food

Choose a feeding option that suits your lifestyle and your puppy’s needs:

Raw Feeding: A biologically appropriate raw food (BARF) diet includes raw meat, bones, offal, and sometimes vegetables. It supports digestion and nutrient absorption. Ensure it’s complete and balanced, sourced from reputable UK suppliers.

Tinned (Wet) Food: High in moisture, tinned food is palatable and aids hydration. Choose complete formulas with high meat content and no fillers.

Complete Dry Food: Kibble is convenient and shelf-stable. Opt for high-quality options with meat as the primary ingredient and minimal grains.

Freeze-Dried or Air-Dried Food: These minimally processed options retain more nutrients and are great for sensitive stomachs.

Feeding Tips

Consistency:

Feed at set times daily to establish a routine.

Hydration: Always provide fresh water, especially with dry or freeze-dried food.

Monitor Stool Quality: Firm stools indicate a healthy gut. Loose stools may signal a need to adjust the diet or transition more slowly.

Avoid Human Food: Stick to puppy-safe food to prevent tummy upsets or toxicity

Avoid Human Food: Stick to puppy-safe food to prevent tummy upsets or toxicity.

3. Why AAC’s 18-in-1 Vitamins and Probiotics are Recommended

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AAC’s 18-in-1 vitamins and probiotics for dogs, available at a great price online now, provide a comprehensive boost to your puppy’s health, especially during the stressful transition to a new home.

Here’s why they’re a great addition:

Digestive Support:

Probiotics promote a healthy gut microbiome, reducing diarrhoea or upset tummies caused by stress, diet changes, or new environments.

Immune Boost: Vitamins strengthen your puppy’s developing immune system, helping them fight off infections.

Nutrient Absorption: Ensures your puppy gets the most from their food, supporting growth, strong bones, and energy.

Skin and Coat Health: Reduces itching and promotes a shiny coat, addressing common puppy skin issues.

These supplements complement any diet—raw, tinned, complete, or dried—making them an easy addition to your puppy’s routine.

4. Choosing a Vet

Selecting the right vet is crucial for your puppy’s health:

Check Online: Search for local vet practices on the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) website or review platforms like VetHelpDirect for ratings and feedback. Look for clinics offering puppy health checks and out-of-hours care.

Ask Neighbours and Friends: Speak to dog-owning neighbours, friends, or family for personal recommendations. They can share insights on vets with good bedside manners or reasonable pricing.

Book Early: Schedule a vet visit within the first week to check your puppy’s health and confirm their vaccination schedule. Puppies need their first vaccinations around 8 weeks, with boosters at 10–12 weeks, and can’t go on walks until fully vaccinated (typically 16 weeks). Book these appointments as soon as possible to ensure timely protection against diseases like parvovirus.

5. Researching Breed-Specific Information

Every breed has unique needs, so research your puppy’s breed to prepare for their care:

Read Up: Use resources like The Kennel Club’s website for breed-specific information on exercise, grooming, and health predispositions. For example, German Shepherds need more exercise, while Bulldogs require special grooming considerations.

Ask Your Breeder: A reputable breeder can provide insights into your puppy’s specific needs, early socialisation, and health history.

Join Breed Clubs: Local breed clubs offer tailored advice and connect you with experienced owners.

6. Finding Puppy Training Classes

Training classes are vital for socialisation and teaching basic commands:

Check Local Options: Search for puppy socialisation or training classes through The Kennel Club’s accredited instructors, Dogs Trust, or local pet stores. Look for reward-based training, as punitive methods can increase fear. Classes typically start for puppies 8–16 weeks old, post-first vaccinations.

Focus on Basics: Classes should teach commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come,” using short, clear words. Keep sessions short (5–10 minutes) to avoid overwhelming your puppy, and treat only when they perform the correct action (e.g., treat for “sit” when they’re sitting, not standing

.7 Planning Local Dog Walks

Exercise is essential, but puppies can’t walk in public until fully vaccinated:

Research Local Walks: Look for dog-friendly parks, fields, or enclosed spaces via websites like dogwalkingfields.com or britishdogfields.org. These are great for post-vaccination walks.

Wait for Vaccinations: Puppies can’t walk in public areas until 7–10 days after their final vaccinations (around 16 weeks) to avoid diseases like parvovirus. Until then, carry them or use a stroller for safe socialisation outings.

Start Small: Once vaccinated, begin with short walks (5 minutes per month of age, up to twice daily) to avoid overexertion.

8. Introducing Your Puppy to People and Children

Socialisation is key to raising a confident dog, but it must be done calmly:

Give Time to Settle: Let your puppy adjust to their new home for a few days before introducing them to new people. Limit visitors initially to keep things calm.

Calm Introductions: Ask people, especially children, to approach gently, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises. Use treats and praise to create positive associations.

Gradual Exposure: Introduce your puppy to people of all ages, sizes, and appearances (e.g., wearing hats or using wheelchairs) in controlled settings, like your garden, before vaccinations are complete.

9. Collar and Lead Training

Starting collar and lead training can be challenging, but it should be fun:

Short and Fun Sessions: Begin with short (5-minute) sessions, using treats to reward your puppy for wearing the collar and walking calmly. Make it a positive experience to build confidence.

Gradual Introduction: Let your puppy wear the collar around the house to get used to it before attaching the lead. Practice in a secure garden or indoor space pre-vaccination.

10. Training Tips

Puppies have short attention spans, so keep training simple:Short Sessions: Limit training to 5–10 minutes to avoid boredom.

Clear Commands: Use single words like “sit,” “stay,” or “come” for clarity. Avoid long sentences, as puppies won’t understand.

Correct Timing: Treat immediately when your puppy performs the desired action (e.g., sitting for “sit”). Don’t reward if they’re standing or moving.

Let Them Explore Safely: Allow your puppy to sniff and explore their new home at their own pace, but supervise to prevent chewing or accidents. Don’t let them roam freely unsupervised.

1.Preparing Your Home

Puppy-proofing ensures safety and protects your belongings:

Remove Hazards: Secure cords, remove toxic plants (e.g., lilies, ivy), and store small objects, including personal items like slippers or children’s toys, out of reach to prevent destruction.

Safe Space: Set up a crate or gated area with vet bed to create a dry, comfortable space for rest.

Cleaning Supplies: Stock pet-safe enzymatic cleaners to handle accidents.

12. Health and Veterinary Needs

Beyond choosing a vet, arrange these essentials:Microchipping: UK law requires microchipping by 8 weeks. Confirm with the breeder or arrange it with your vet.

Flea and Worming Treatments: Start a regular schedule to protect against parasites.

Pet Insurance: Consider insurance to cover unexpected vet costs.

13. Where to Shop in the UK

Major Pet Retailers: One-stop shops for food, vet bed, poo bags, and buckets.

Online Retailers: Great for bulk buys like poo bags or vet bed.

Local Pet Shops: Support independent stores for unique items or advice.

Supermarkets: Stock basics like bowls and affordable blankets.

14. Budget Considerations

Initial setup costs range from £200–£500:Food and bowls: £30–£50

Crate and vet bed/bedding: £50–£100

Collar, lead, and ID tag: £15–£30

Toys: £20–£50

Grooming supplies: £20–£40

Vet costs (initial visit, microchip, vaccinations): £100–£200

Poo bags and garden waste bucket: £10–£30

Save by choosing vet bed and avoiding expensive beds until your puppy is house-trained.

15. First Few Days Tips

Establish a Routine: Set consistent times for feeding, potty breaks, and sleep.

Introduce Gradually: Let your puppy explore slowly under supervision to avoid overwhelm.

Be Patient: Accidents, chewing, or greedy/wary eating are normal. Use positive reinforcement and AAC’s 18-in-1 vitamins and probiotics to support their health as they settle.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a puppy home is a joyful journey that starts with preparation. By choosing a vet with online and personal recommendations, researching breed-specific needs, finding local training classes and dog walks, stocking up on poo bags and a garden waste bucket, introducing your puppy calmly to people and children, starting collar and lead training with treats, and keeping personal items like slippers and kids’ toys out of reach to prevent destructive chewing, you’ll set your puppy up for success. AAC’s 18-in-1 vitamins and probiotics for dogs, available at a great price online now, will support their digestion, immunity, and overall health. Stick to the breeder’s diet, transition gradually, and keep training short and fun for a happy, healthy puppy!