What to Know Before Bringing Your Puppy Home
The first week sets the tone for your bond. Keep things calm, consistent, and predictable.
Stick to a daily routine: feeding, potty, play, sleep
Be patient with accidents — progress takes time
Reward calm behavior instead of only correcting bad habits
Socialize early, but safely — short positive experiences build confidence
Remember: Your puppy doesn’t need perfection — they just need patience, structure, and love.
Before you bring your new puppy home, take a little time to get your space (and yourself) ready. Puppies are pure joy — but they’re also a handful of energy, curiosity, and chaos. Having the essentials prepared ahead of time makes those first days easier and less overwhelming. A simple checklist and a few thoughtful purchases will help you focus on what really matters: bonding, playing, and building trust with your new best friend.
Home Setup:
☐ Bed or crate
☐ Playpen or baby gate
☐ Puppy pads + cleaner spray
Feeding:
☐ Puppy food
☐ 2 bowls (food + water)
☐ Treats + chews
Walks & Training:
☐ Soft harness + leash
☐ ID tag
☐ Poop bags
Toys & Comfort:
☐ Plush toy
☐ Chew toy
☐ Blanket
Grooming:
☐ Puppy shampoo
☐ Brush
☐ Nail trimmer
☐ Toothbrush + toothpaste
Health & Extras:
☐ Vet appointment
☐ Flea/tick prevention
☐ Pet insurance
☐ Pet wipes
☐ Smart tracker (like Fi Mini or Tractive)
I can hardly contain my excitement — we’ve just welcomed the tiniest Shih Tzu into our home! He’s only 2½ months old, with a soft red and white liver coat, and every time I look at him, my heart just melts. He’s so adorable and full of spirit. We can’t wait to watch him grow, teach him all kinds of tricks, and bring him along on adventures wherever we go. To make his transition smooth, calm, and full of love, I’ve already studied and prepared a complete puppy starter kit so he feels safe, welcomed, and ready to thrive from day one.
Home Setup Essentials
Your home is about to become your puppy’s entire world. Create a space that’s cozy, secure, and easy to clean.
What to have ready:
Dog bed or crate: A soft, enclosed place helps your puppy feel safe and sleep through the night.
Playpen or baby gate: Keeps them from wandering while you train.
Puppy pads or grass tray: For early potty training.
Enzyme-based cleaner: Removes odors completely so they don’t re-mark the same spot.
Blanket or soft toy: Provides comfort during the first few nights away from their litter.
Tip: Keep your puppy’s “den” in a quiet spot but still close enough to hear your voice — it helps them settle faster.
Feeding & Nutrition
Choosing the right food from the start supports your puppy’s growth, coat, and energy.
If possible, continue feeding what the breeder or shelter used for the first week, then transition gradually.
Puppy feeding checklist:
High-quality puppy food (breed or size-specific, like small-breed formulas for Shih Tzus)
Food and water bowls (stainless steel or ceramic — easy to clean and non-toxic)
Measuring cup or scoop for consistent portions
Training treats (tiny, soft, low-calorie)
Teething chews or dental sticks to ease sore gums
Optional: puppy-safe probiotics or omega supplements for coat health and digestion.
Toys & Playtime
Play isn’t just fun — it’s how puppies learn and bond. Keep a mix of textures and purposes.
Recommended toys:
Plush toys for comfort and cuddles
Rubber chew toys (like KONG Puppy) for teething
Rope toys for gentle tug games
Puzzle toys for mental stimulation
Rotate toys every few days to keep them exciting and extend their lifespan.
Grooming & Hygiene Supplies
Start grooming early so your puppy learns it’s part of normal life.
Essentials to buy:
Puppy shampoo (hypoallergenic, gentle, tear-free)
Brush or comb suited to their coat type
Nail clippers or grinder
Puppy toothbrush and toothpaste
Ear-cleaning solution and cotton pads
Grooming wipes for quick clean-ups between baths
For long-haired breeds like Shih Tzus, invest in a detangling spray and plan for daily brushing.
Walking & Training Gear
Even before they’re ready for outdoor walks, start with light training indoors.
Walking essentials:
Harness: Softer and safer than a collar for small breeds
Leash: Lightweight, 4–6 feet long
ID tag: With your phone number and city
Poop bags + holder: Always keep one clipped to your leash
Weather protection: A raincoat or warm sweater for colder days
Smart upgrade: A GPS or activity collar like Fi Mini or Tractive Health — they track location, steps, sleep, and overall well-being.
Health & Wellness
Take your puppy for a vet check-up within the first few days.
Ask about:
Vaccination schedule
Deworming plan
Flea/tick prevention
Microchip and registration
Spay/neuter timing
Keep a small pet first-aid kit at home: gauze, antiseptic spray, tweezers, cotton pads, and a digital thermometer.
Modern Pet Parent Essentials
Technology can make life with a puppy smoother and safer.
Consider adding:
Pet camera — check in while you’re away
Automatic water fountain — encourages hydration
Smart collar or tracker — monitors movement, sleep, and health metrics
Pet insurance — a must-have for emergencies or health surprises
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is the start of an incredible journey.
With the right puppy essentials checklist, you’ll create a space that feels safe, nurturing, and full of joy — for both of you.
Enjoy the process, take too many photos, and remember: those first few months go by faster than you think.