Checklist: Supplies for New Puppy

Some people compare bringing home a new pup to bringing home a new baby. There are so many supplies you'll need to make things easier on yourself and your pet. Once you have the basics, though, you'll be well on your way to raising your new family member.

Even if you're planning on keeping your pup indoors, purchase an ID tag for him or her. If the pup sneaks out of the fence, or runs out the door while you're not looking, your chances of recovering him are much stronger with the tag. The tag should be imprinted with the dog's name, your name and address, phone number and/or email. Remember that the tag will do no good if the puppy isn't wearing it - keep it on pup's neck at all times.

Since your pup will be wearing his ID tag, he'll also need a collar. The collar also serves as a way to attach the pup's new leash, for long walks outdoors. Avoid leashes of chains and choose a cloth one instead. Nylon leashes are perfect and inexpensive. Some collars and leashes have dog sizes recommended on them so you can choose the right selection according to the pup's size. Adjustable collars are the best, since the dog will grow and you won't want to purchase a new collar every couple of months.

Many people use a crate or carrier to keep the pup in while housebreaking or carrying. Make sure you choose a large enough container to allow puppy ample room to turn around or stretch. Line the carrier with some sort of washable doggie pad or rug.

Of course your new pup will need bowls for food and water. Most any bowl will do but metal ones will prevent the pup from chewing them. They're also heavier and won't tip as easily as plastic ones.

Puppy pads are a must for your new dog. When he's gotten pretty good at going out to potty, you'll likely let him in other parts of the house, but accidents still occur sometimes. Lay potty pads around the room for him to do his business. He'll eventually learn to go to the door every time, but the pads will protect your flooring for now. And, they are often treated with an odor that attracts pup to use the pad rather than the carpet.