New dog owner guide

The complete new dog owner checklist

Everything you need to do before your dog arrives — and through their first month home. Tick items off as you go. Your progress saves automatically.

🔒 Saves to your device·30 items across 4 stages·Tips included

🏠

Before They Arrive

0/10

Choose a vet and book first appointment

Buy a crate (size for adult breed)

Get a collar and ID tag with your phone number

Buy a 6-foot leash

Set up a sleeping area away from drafts

Buy puppy food (ask vet for brand recommendation)

Get food and water bowls (stainless steel is easiest to clean)

Buy enzymatic cleaner for accidents

Remove toxic plants from your home

Hide electrical cords and cables

🐾

0/7

Show them their sleeping area immediately

Let them explore at their own pace — don't overwhelm

Introduce water bowl and show where food is

Keep household calm — no big parties or loud visitors

Take outside to toilet spot every 2 hours

Set up a consistent feeding schedule

Start using their name consistently

📅

0/7

First vet visit done

Confirm vaccination schedule with vet

Start basic commands: sit, stay, come

Establish toilet routine (same spot, same times)

Begin crate training gradually

Get pet insurance quotes

🎓

0/6

Second vet visit / vaccinations

Start socialisation — new people, sounds, environments

Begin puppy classes or basic obedience training

Introduce grooming routine (brushing, nail check)

Switch to adult food at appropriate age (ask vet)

Microchip registered to your address

🐶

Practical advice on training, health, food, and gear — delivered every Friday. No fluff, no spam.

Unsubscribe any time. No spam, ever.