What to Buy When You’re Getting a Puppy: A Guide for New Owners

What to Buy When You’re Getting a Puppy: A Guide for New Owners

Congrats on the new furry little addition to your family! We’re secondhand excited for all of the adventures, memories, and fun in your future. Whether you’ve adopted a rescue pup or brought home a brand-new puppy, gearing up with the right essentials can make the transition smoother and a lot more fun.

We know those first few weeks can feel like a whirlwind, so we’ve rounded up a go-to guide of must-have gear. From outdoor adventure essentials to everyday home basics, this guide will help you feel prepared, and spend less time scrambling for products and more time playing with your pup. Let’s make sure you have everything you need to start this new chapter off on the right paw.

Must haves: Nice to haves:
  1. Leash
  2. Collar
  3. Poop bags
  4. Food + water bowl
  5. Bed
  6. ID tag
  7. Kibble 
  1. Harness
  2. Crap Carrier
  3. Poop bag holder
  4. Couch/bed blanket
  5. Training bags
  6. Toys
  7. Crate

 

Walk

Walking your pup is a daily bonding experience and a chance to explore the world together. Whether you’re navigating busy city sidewalks or hitting rugged trails, having the right gear makes all the difference.

Our durable leashes, collars, and harnesses are built for comfort and control. They keep your pup safe while giving them freedom to explore. For hands-free convenience during training and easy access, check out our training treat pouches, utility packs, and mega hip packs. These are perfect for keeping treats, keys, and your phone close by so you can focus on managing your new energetic pup. And don’t forget the essentials for cleanup. Our eco-friendly poop bags, poop bag holders, and crap carriers make it simple to be a responsible dog parent without missing a step.

Fuel

Mealtime is an important part of your pup’s routine. Our stainless steel bowls and easy-clean mats make feeding a breeze while keeping your floors clean. For pups who eat too quickly, our slow feeder insert helps encourage healthier eating habits. When traveling or camping, our backpacking bowls are perfect for food and water on the move.

Play

To keep your pup entertained when you can't, try the Conifur. This interactive enrichment toy can be filled with frozen treats or kibble to provide up to 30 minutes of stimulating, anxiety-relieving fun. It comes with a silicone treat mold and recipe booklet so you can create healthy homemade frozen snacks like a parent pro. A four-pack of our Fetch Balls will keep you stocked for while.

Chill

Rest is just as important as play. After a day full of adventures, your pup needs a cozy place to recharge. Our beds and blankets are soft, waterproof, and made for curling up in comfort. The waterproof design is especially helpful for new pups, making cleanup easy in case of accidents or spills from all the excitement. When setting up a cozy corner, these essentials help your dog feel safe and settled in their new home.

Adventure

Now that your pup is settled, fed, (vaccinated), and excited to be your newest friend, it's time to start exploring the world together. From park visits and trail hikes to your first overnight campout, our adventure gear is made to keep up.

Our dog backpacks let your pup carry their own snacks and supplies once they are ready. For longer trips, pack a sleeping bag for your pup and bring a quick dry towel for muddy paws or post-swim cleanup. Our doggie bag, lined with a stasher bag, is perfect for keeping your pup's food fresh and packed for any trip. And for peace of mind, bring along the trail dog med kit stocked with first aid essentials so you are ready for any scrapes, stings, or surprises on the trail. Need help carrying it all? Use our dog duffel (meant for humans) to pack up all your new gear! 

Bringing a new dog home is exciting, sometimes chaotic, and always rewarding. With the right gear on hand, you can spend less time scrambling and more time soaking up every tail wag, trail walk, and couch cuddle. From your daily walks to weekend adventures, Wilderdog gear is built to keep up with your pup — through every stage, every mess, and every memory. Welcome to the Wilderdog pack!