Bringing home a puppy is pure joy — and a lot of preparation. The smoother those first days go, the faster your puppy settles in. This complete new-puppy checklist walks through everything you need on day one, and where to find it on ASM Pet Market, the storefront powered by American Service Marketplace.
Before they arrive: puppy-proof and prepare
A little prep prevents a lot of chaos. Walk through your home at puppy height and remove hazards — loose cords, small objects, toxic plants and anything chewable you would miss. Decide where your puppy will sleep, eat and toilet, and set up a confined, safe space for the first days. Stock the essentials below before pick-up day so you are not running to the store with a nervous puppy in tow.
Day-one essentials checklist
- Food & water bowls — sturdy, easy to clean, the right size.
- Complete puppy food — ideally the same brand the breeder/shelter used to start.
- Collar, leash & ID tag — adjustable, with your contact details.
- Crate & soft bedding — a safe den for rest and house-training.
- Safe chew toys — for teething relief and enrichment.
- Potty pads or a plan — plus an enzyme cleaner for accidents.
- Grooming basics — brush, puppy shampoo and nail clippers.
Browse it all in the dog category or start from the full shop.
Food and feeding
Nutrition matters most while your puppy is growing fast. Choose a complete puppy formula appropriate to their size, and transition gradually if you switch brands to avoid tummy upset. Feed several small meals a day on a consistent schedule. For a deeper dive into reading labels and matching food to your dog, see our guide on how to choose the right dog food.
Crate, bedding and comfort
A crate is your puppy’s den — a place that feels safe and theirs. Make it inviting with soft bedding and a chew toy, and introduce it positively with treats and short, happy sessions. Combined with a predictable routine, the crate is the single biggest help with house-training and settling at night.
Health and grooming from the start
Book a vet check-up within the first week to confirm vaccinations, deworming, microchipping and parasite prevention. Start gentle grooming early — short brushing and handling sessions — so your puppy grows up comfortable with it. Easing them into baths, nail trims and ear checks now pays off for life; the fundamentals are in our pet grooming basics guide.
The first week: routine and patience
Keep things calm and predictable. Consistent meal, potty, play and sleep times help your puppy feel secure and learn faster. Expect a few accidents and broken nights — they pass. Reward the behaviour you want, supervise closely, and give plenty of rest; puppies sleep a lot. Patience in week one builds the trust that makes everything else easier.