The New Dog Essentials Checklist
Bringing a dog home is exciting, and the shopping list gets long fast. This checklist covers what you actually need for the first week, what can wait, and one Wag Worthy pick in each category so you don't have to compare 40 tabs.
1. Crate
A crate gives your dog a safe den and makes house training much easier. Size it so your dog can stand, turn around and lie down comfortably, and no bigger, or they may use one end as a bathroom.
MidWest iCrate Folding Wire Crate
Best for: puppies who will grow, and anyone who wants a crate that folds flat.
- Comes with a divider panel, so you can buy the adult size and shrink the space while your puppy is small
- Removable plastic tray for easy cleanup
- Folds flat for car trips and storage
2. Harness and leash
A harness spreads pressure across the chest instead of the throat, which matters for pullers and small breeds. A front clip helps discourage pulling.
Ruffwear Front Range Harness
Best for: daily walks, hikes and dogs who pull.
- Two leash attachment points, including a front clip for pullers
- Padded chest and belly panels
- Adjustable at four points for a good fit as your dog grows
Pair it with a simple 6-foot leash. Skip retractable leashes for training, since they teach dogs that pulling gets them more room.
3. Bed
Puppies chew beds, so for the first few months a durable, washable option beats a fancy one. For adult, large or senior dogs, thick supportive foam is worth paying for.
Big Barker Orthopedic Dog Bed
Best for: large breeds, seniors and dogs with stiff joints.
- Thick orthopedic foam built for big dogs
- Known for a long warranty against flattening
- Removable, washable cover
4. Chew toy
Chewing is how dogs relieve stress and, for puppies, teething pain. Giving them something good to chew saves your shoes.
KONG Classic
Best for: crate time, chewers and keeping a dog busy.
- Tough natural rubber with an unpredictable bounce
- Stuff it with treats or food, and freeze it for a longer-lasting challenge
- Comes in sizes and strengths from puppy to extreme chewers
5. Cleanup
Accidents will happen. Regular cleaners can leave a scent that brings your dog back to the same spot, so use an enzyme cleaner that breaks down the odor.
Nature's Miracle Enzyme Stain & Odor Remover
Best for: house training accidents on carpet and floors.
- Enzyme formula that breaks down the odor, not just covers it
- Widely available and inexpensive
Also grab a roll of poop bags with a leash dispenser. Earth Rated is a popular, inexpensive pick.
6. ID and GPS
Every dog needs an ID tag with your phone number on day one, even if they're microchipped. If you have an escape artist or a lot of open land, a GPS tracker adds real peace of mind.
Tractive GPS Dog Tracker
Best for: runners, diggers and dogs in rural areas.
- Live location tracking on your phone
- Clips onto your dog's existing collar
- Requires a monthly subscription, so factor that into the cost
The quick checklist
Screenshot this or get the printable version.
- ☐ Crate sized for your dog (with divider for puppies)
- ☐ Harness and 6-foot leash
- ☐ Collar with ID tag
- ☐ Food and water bowls (stainless steel is easiest to clean)
- ☐ The same food the shelter or breeder used, to start
- ☐ Bed or crate pad
- ☐ 2–3 chew toys
- ☐ Enzyme cleaner and paper towels
- ☐ Poop bags
- ☐ Training treats (small and soft)
- ☐ Vet appointment booked for the first week