Bringing home a new puppy is equal parts joy and chaos. One minute they're asleep in your lap looking like a furry little angel; the next they've eaten a shoe and weed on the rug. A bit of prep makes the whole thing smoother — here's everything you actually need before day one.
The Night-One Essentials
Before your pup walks through the door, have these sorted: a comfy bed, food and water bowls, age-appropriate food, a collar with an ID tag, a lead, and a couple of chew toys. Puppy-proof the house too — anything chewable, swallowable, or precious goes up high.
Feeding & Bowls
Stick to whatever food the breeder or shelter was using for the first couple of weeks, then transition slowly. A gravity feeder takes the stress out of portion top-ups, and a sturdy non-tip bowl saves a lot of mopping.
Collar, Lead & First Walks
Start with a lightweight adjustable collar (two fingers should fit underneath) and a comfortable lead. Once vaccinations are sorted, a no-pull harness makes those first wobbly walks far easier on both of you.
Sleep, Comfort & Teething
Puppies sleep a lot — up to 18–20 hours a day — so a supportive bed in a quiet corner is non-negotiable. Teething is brutal, so have safe chew toys ready before the sharp little teeth find your furniture.
Your Puppy Starter Picks
Patterned Dog Collar & Lead Set — from $14.80
Why: a matching collar-and-lead set in S–XL so you can size up as your pup grows. Adjustable and easy on the budget.
PawfectFriend Orthopedic Dog Bed — $75.99
Why: a bolstered, calming bed with a washable cover — because puppies sleep constantly and accidents happen.
Rocket Silicone Chew Toy — $40.84
Why: a tough, food-dispensing chew that redirects teething energy away from your shoes and keeps a bored pup busy.
New Puppy FAQs
When can my puppy go for walks outside?
Usually about a week or two after their final vaccinations — check with your vet. Until then, stick to your own backyard and carry them for socialisation outings.
Collar or harness for a puppy?
A lightweight collar for ID, and a no-pull harness for walks — it's gentler on a developing neck.
How do I stop the chewing?
You can't stop it, but you can redirect it. Keep plenty of chew toys handy and swap your pup onto one every time they target something they shouldn't.
Shop Puppy Essentials at OzPetCo
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