The First Week With a New Puppy
The first seven days with a new puppy set the foundation for months of behavior, bonding, and routine. Having the right equipment ready before your puppy arrives reduces stress for both of you and avoids those frantic late-night online orders.
Safety & Walking
- Harness (not a collar) — Puppies have fragile necks and tracheas. A harness distributes pressure across the chest. Start with Baby1 or Baby2 sizes for puppies under 10 lbs, XS upward for larger breeds. The Wagivo harness starts at 2 lbs and comes with a custom name patch.
- Leash (150cm) — A standard fixed-length leash is essential for training. Avoid retractable leashes during the first three months.
- ID tag — Puppies are escape artists. Have a tag with your phone number ready from day one.
Feeding
- Slow feeder bowl — Puppies eat too fast and are prone to bloating. A maze-pattern slow feeder reduces eating speed by up to 10x and adds mental stimulation at mealtime.
- Puppy food (vet-recommended breed-specific formula)
- Measuring cup — Portion control matters more in the first year than at any other stage.
Health & Grooming
- Grooming comb — Start grooming early so your puppy associates it with positive experiences. A fine-tooth flea comb also lets you check for parasites during weekly brushing sessions.
- Puppy toothbrush and paste
- Nail clippers
Comfort
- Crate — Dogs are den animals. A properly introduced crate reduces anxiety and speeds up house training.
- Blanket from the breeder — The familiar scent helps the puppy settle on the first few nights.
- Cooling mat — Especially useful in summer months or for breeds prone to overheating.
Training
- High-value treats — Small, soft, smelly treats work best for puppies.
- Clicker — Optional but speeds up positive reinforcement training significantly.
- Puppy training class — Book for weeks 8–12 for socialization and basic commands.
The Most Important Thing
No amount of equipment replaces time, patience, and consistency. Puppies learn fast — the first weeks shape their behavior for life. Set clear boundaries, reinforce good behavior, and enjoy the chaos. It goes faster than you expect.