Tips On What To Bring When Picking Up Your Puppy!

Bringing a new puppy home is a really exciting time for any family. Preparing for your puppy’s arrival involves more than just picking out the right puppy; it also means making sure you have everything you need for the trip and their first few days in their new home. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to bring when picking up your puppy from the breeder, with a puppy checklist filled with important items and tips for new puppy owners.

Preparation for the Car Ride

The car ride home is likely your puppy’s first experience outside of their familiar environment, so making it as smooth as possible is crucial.

Dog Crate or Travel Crate: A dog crate can be an essential for keeping your puppy safe and secure during the car ride especially if it is a long journey. A small puppy might feel more comfortable in a travel crate that’s just the right size for them.
Seat Belt Harness or Dog Carrier: If you prefer not to use a crate, a seat belt harness can keep your puppy safe in the passenger seat. This would be for people who have a shorter drive.
Puppy Pads and Poop Bags: Young puppies can get nervous and have accidents. Puppy pads and poop bags are a must for a clean car ride. Always make sure you bring spare puppy pads as you can never be too sure.
Water Bowl and Little Water: Bring a collapsible water bowl and a little water to keep your puppy hydrated, especially if it’s a long drive.
Soft Toy or Small Blanket: A soft toy or a small blanket with a familiar scent can help your puppy feel more at ease during the trip.
Paper Towels and Baby Wipes: These are great for cleaning up any messes that might happen along the way.
Plastic Bags: For any trash or soiled items you need to dispose of.

At the Breeder’s Place

Meeting your puppy’s breeder is a great opportunity to gather valuable information and ensure you’re well-prepared for bringing your new furry friend home.

Puppy Pack: Many reputable breeders provide a puppy pack with essentials like a small bag of puppy food, an ID tag, and a toy. Make sure to ask if this is included.
Contact Information: Get the breeder’s contact details in case you have any questions once you get home. Some breeders will keep in contact with you to watch the progress of the pups and to check in.
Puppy’s Name and Kennel Club Information: Confirm your puppy’s registered name and any kennel club documents. Also, make sure the microchip is registered to the correct owner before leaving the breeders.

The Drive Home

For the drive home, it’s important to plan for your puppy’s comfort and needs.

Potty Breaks: Plan rest areas along your route for potty breaks. This is also a great way to prevent car sickness. This is more essential for those who have an hour plus drive ahead of them. When collecting Chicago & Cici we only had a 20 – 30 minute drive so no potty breaks were really needed.
Food Bowls and Puppy Food: If your trip is over an hour, you might need to offer your puppy a small meal. Therefore, it is a good idea to make sure you have some food on you and a bowl.
Family Member or New Family: Having a family member along can help keep the puppy calm and provide extra hands for care.
Car Seat or Cardboard Box: A sturdy cardboard box lined with a small blanket can be a temporary car seat for the puppy’s first ride if a crate is not available.

The First Night

The first night in a new home can be challenging for a young puppy. Here’s how to ease the transition:

New Food: Stick to the same food the breeder used to avoid an upset stomach. If you are planning to move them over, then do this gradually and always consult with your vet if you’re unsure or if they have a reaction.
Puppy-Safe Chew Toy: Helps with teething and keeps them entertained.
Baby Gate or Kennel: Use a baby gate to create a safe area or a kennel for the puppy to sleep in.
Familiar Scent: Keep a blanket or toy that smells like their littermates to provide comfort.

The First Week

The first week with your new puppy is an important learning period. Here’s what to focus on:

Puppy Pads and Potty Training: Start potty training immediately with puppy pads to set good behaviour patterns.
Dog Food and Water Bowls: Ensure your puppy has access to fresh water and their familiar dog food.
Baby Wipes and Poop Bags: Keep these handy for cleanups during potty training.
Soft Toy and Small Blanket: These help your puppy feel secure in their new surroundings.

Final Tips for New Puppy Owners

Responsible Breeder and Contact Details: Always choose a responsible breeder and keep their contact details handy.
Pet Store Visit: A trip to the pet store can be a great way to pick up any last-minute items you might need.
Good Luck: Welcoming a new puppy into your home is a joyful and sometimes challenging experience. Good luck!

By following this puppy checklist and preparing for your puppy’s arrival, you’ll ensure the best experience for both you and your new furry friend. Enjoy this special time as you welcome your new puppy into your family!