Field manuals
Printable puppy checklists.
Tick boxes. Pin to fridge. Survive the first month.
Everything to have ready before your puppy comes home.
- Crate (sized for adult dog with divider)
- X-pen or baby gates
- Stainless steel food + water bowls
- Puppy food (the breeder's brand to start)
- Collar, harness, 6-ft leash, ID tag
- Enzymatic cleaner (Nature's Miracle)
- Chew toys + frozen Kong
- Soft brush + nail clippers
- Puppy-safe shampoo
- Vet appointment booked for the first week
First Week Checklist
Day-by-day priorities for the most important seven days.
- Day 1: Quiet arrival, introduce crate, no visitors
- Day 2: Establish potty schedule, name games
- Day 3: First vet wellness check
- Day 4: Begin crate intro with food
- Day 5: Short alone-time practice (10 min)
- Day 6: First short carried outing in public
- Day 7: Reflect, adjust schedule, celebrate
Potty Training Checklist
The supplies and habits that make housebreaking work.
- Enzymatic cleaner (not ammonia-based)
- Leash for tethering indoors
- Treat pouch with high-value rewards
- Consistent outdoor potty spot
- Written schedule on the fridge
- Bell at the door (optional)
Crate Training Checklist
Set up the crate for success from day one.
- Correctly sized crate with divider
- Soft, washable bedding
- Light cover for sense of den
- Frozen Kong for long durations
- Crate placed next to your bed for the first month
- Snuggle Puppy (heartbeat toy) for first nights
Puppy Shopping Checklist
The full first-year shopping list.
- Crate, X-pen, baby gates
- Adjustable harness + flat collar + ID tag
- 6-ft leash + 30-ft long line
- Slow-feeder bowl + treat pouch
- Variety of chews: bully sticks, Kongs, lick mats
- Grooming basics: brush, nail clippers, ear cleaner, dog toothpaste
- Enzymatic cleaner + paper towels (lots)
- Puppy-safe shampoo
- Travel: seat belt tether or travel crate
- First-aid kit