A new puppy, how exiting! It is almost time to bring your new best friend home with you. At the Ark we understand that there is so much to know about raising a pup and so many decisions to make. That is why we created a video with a checklist of everything your puppy needs. Make sure your home is ready for your new best friend joins your family!

The Ultimate New Puppy Checklist

1. Puppy Food

   Ask the breeder what type of food they are giving to the puppies. Make sure you have the same type of food at home to ease the transition.
   If you want to change your pup’s diet, gradually do this over 2 weeks to prevent an upset tummy.
   

2. Transporting your puppy

   The safest way to transport your new pup is in a travel crate until they are big enough to be safely secured in a car harness.

3. Crates

   Crate training is useful as it draws on your pup’s natural instinct to be in a den. Make sure the crate is a comfortable place where they feel safe and they will enjoy spending time in it.
   

4. Collar or Harness?

   Using a harness instead of a collar can make it easier to train your puppy to walk on a lead. Harnesses are harder for the puppy to slip out of and can make them easier to control.

5. Id Tag

   Make sure your pup is easy to identify by adding an ID tag to their harness and/or collar.

   Add:

   • Their Name
   • Your Phone Number
   • Medical Needs (if any)

6. Puppy Proof your House

   Don’t leave electrical cords exposed.
   Block stairs with a gate.
   Place human food out of reach.
   Keep garbage bins behind closed doors.
   Keep all medications out of reach.
   Keep cleaning supplies handy but also out of reach.
   Make your backyard safe by checking fences for gaps and checking for any toxic plants.

7. Bowls for food and water

   We recommend stainless steel or ceramic bowls as they are easy to clean and not chewable. Buy 2 sets so there is always a bowl available and you can rotate them for regular cleaning.
   

8. Toys

   The key to keeping your puppy entertained is variety. Buy different types of toys in as many different textures and materials as possible to keep your pup playing with these toys instead of your shoes or furniture!

   Toy Tip #1:
   Stuffed dog toys can help your pup sleep through the first nights.

   Toy Tip #2:
   Kong toys can help your pup with teething and keep them entertained when home alone.

9.  Dog beds

   Dog beds should be padded and made from comfortable, not easy to chew on material.
   They also should be easy to wash.

   When it comes to size, pick a bed that your dog can be comfortably stretched out on.

10. Other puppy essentials

    Doggy Bags (lot’s of them)
    Nail clipper
    Brush
    Cleaning wipes
    Puppy treats

Most importantly… Enjoy this time with your pup!

At the Ark we are specialises in Puppy care. If you want to know more please contact our friendly team and they will answer all your questions!