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new puppy guide

Everything You Need to Know & Buy Before Getting a New Puppy

So, you’ve decided to get a puppy? That’s amazing news!! Cue the squeals and all the tail wags. Bringing home a new puppy is one of the most exciting and life-changing moments of your life. It’s exciting, heartwarming and, okay, maybe a tiny bit overwhelming. There’s quite a bit to plan and think about like where do puppies sleep? What do puppies eat? And how do I puppy-proof my home so it doesn’t become their personal chew toy?


Don’t worry, every dog owner has been here, so you are not alone if you’re unsure where to start. We’ve made this guide to help you navigate all the pre-puppy jitters and answer all your questions about what you need to know and buy when getting a new puppy. From must-have puppy enrichment toys and puppy-proofing tips to insider knowledge that will make those first weeks a breeze, we’ll make sure you’re totally ready for bringing your furry baby home.

What To Know Before Getting a New Puppy

Bringing home a puppy is a mix of excitement, responsibility, and the occasional "What have I gotten myself into?" moments. But just know that all of this is normal. It’s okay if you feel a little overwhelmed or stressed at times. It’s all part of being a puppy parent! But to help make this journey all the easier, here’s everything you need to know to prepare for a life with your new puppy.

Potty Training is a Full-Time Job

Just like babies, puppies don’t know how to use the toilet and that’s your job to teach. It’s a process that requires patience, vigilance, and a lot of cleaning supplies! The best way to start is by choosing a method and sticking to it. You’ll want to decide if you’re going to use puppy pads indoors or do plenty of trips to the garden or pavement.


Puppies usually need to go after waking up, eating, and again after playing, so be ready to act fast when you see sniffing, circling, or squatting. When they go in the right spot, make sure to celebrate with lots of praise and treats. It’s amazing how quickly they catch on, especially if you’re able to pay attention. Consistency is your best friend here. And don’t worry, accidents are normal, so don’t get discouraged. Just keep at it and before you know it, your pup will be asking for the toilet themselves.

Puppies Bite (A LOT)

One thing you’ll quickly learn when you get a new puppy is that they have lots of teeth, and very sharp ones! In my household, we called them “needle teeth” because that’s exactly what they felt like! They’re sharp and it’s very likely they’re coming for your fingers, furniture, and favourite shoes.


The important thing to know is that puppy biting is normal. They use their mouths to explore the world, so expect plenty of nibbles and gnawed edges. To save your sanity (and your stuff), stock up on chew toys before they arrive. Rotate the toys to keep things interesting, and whenever your puppy goes for your hand or something off-limits, redirect them to an approved toy.

But you’ll probably also need to prepare for some sacrifices. Clothes might get holes, furniture may bear a few toothy marks, and your toes might not feel safe for a while. Wear old clothes during playtime and move valuables or chewable items out of puppy reach. This phase won’t last forever, and with proper training, they’ll learn to channel their chewing energy appropriately.

They Sleep A LOT & Play A LOT

Puppies are either doing everything or nothing; there never seems to be an in-between. One minute they’re zooming around your living room with your slipper in their mouth, then the next they’re fast asleep at your feet. It’s normal for puppies to sleep 18 to 20 hours a day as they grow, so don’t worry if your new buddy takes more naps than you were expecting. It’s because their brain is still developing, and they need lots of sleep to let it do its thing.


And then when they’re awake, they’ll want your full attention, and they’ll let you know if they’re not getting it. This is when playtime is essential. It’s a chance for them to burn off energy and bond with you. Use toys to encourage interactive play, like tug or fetch, but avoid overexertion, especially with young pups who tire quickly.

They Can’t Be Left Alone for Long

Although one day you’ll be able to leave your dog home alone for up to 4 hours at a time, puppies are not born fully independent. For the first few weeks, they’ll need constant supervision. Puppies younger than 3 months old should not be left alone for more than an hour or two at a time, and even older puppies shouldn’t be left alone for long stretches.


If you work full-time, you’ll need to plan ahead, whether that involves taking some time off, arranging for a dog sitter, or enlisting the help of a family member. Gradually build their independence by practicing short separations, leaving them in a safe space with toys and treats. This helps them learn that being alone isn’t scary.

Putting Them to Bed

Bedtime can be one of the trickiest parts of bringing home a puppy, but with a little preparation and patience, you’ll both get through it. Crate training is a popular choice because it provides a safe, cosy spot for your pup to rest. Start by introducing the crate during the day. We recommend tossing treats inside, placing down a soft blanket, and letting them explore it at their own pace. The goal is to make the crate feel like their happy place.


The first few nights may involve some whining but it’s okay, that’s normal! Stay calm, don’t give in to the temptation to cuddle them all night, and let them adjust. Puppies thrive on routine, so aim to put them to bed at the same time each night. If the crate isn’t for you, you can also consider a puppy pen or a safe area with a comfy bed.

Prepare for Less Sleep

Say goodbye to uninterrupted nights – at least for a while. Getting a new puppy is a little like having a human baby. They also need attention during the night, especially because puppies have tiny bladders. Set alarms or keep an ear out for whining, which often signals they need to go outdoors for the toilet. While this might seem exhausting, these nighttime potty trips are great training opportunities. Stick to a routine, and as they grow, so will their bladder and they’ll soon learn to sleep longer stretches.

Get Registered with a Vet

One of the first things you’ll want to do is register your new puppy with a vet. If they aren’t already microchipped or vaccinated, it’s time to get that sorted. Vaccinations protect your puppy from diseases, and microchipping ensures they can always find their way back to you if they get lost. Regular check-ups will keep them healthy and give you peace of mind.

Start Learning About Training Early

The earlier you start training, the easier it will be for both you and your puppy. We recommend, even before bringing your new puppy home, to read into some of the best ways to teach your dog all the essential tricks like “sit”, “wait” and “come”. That way, as soon as they arrive home and they’ve settled into their new surroundings, you can start teaching them all the necessary commands they’ll need in the future.


As always, use positive reinforcement when training your new puppy. That includes treats, lots of “good boy” or “good girl” and plenty of belly rubs. This will help make training fun and rewarding for your dog, so much so that they won’t even realise they’re learning, they’ll just think it’s all part of a fun game.

For puppies, we suggest keeping training sessions around 5-10 minutes at a time, but frequent throughout the day. This keeps them interested but still regular enough that they’ll pick commands up quickly. You can also try practicing in different environments to help them generalise commands and even sign them up to a puppy class.

Socialisation is Key

Introduce your puppy to as many new experiences as possible. Let them meet people, other dogs, and encounter different environments in a safe and controlled way. Early socialisation is crucial for raising a confident, well-mannered dog. Puppy classes can be a fantastic way to combine training and socialisation in a structured environment, so try and find some local puppy classes near you and get you and your pup signed up!

They’ll Steal Your Time (and Your Heart)

Adjust your schedule now, because life with a puppy is a full-time commitment. From playtime to training to potty breaks, your puppy will demand your attention. But they’ll give you unconditional love in return. They’ll change your routine, your furniture arrangement, and maybe even your social plans, but they’ll also fill your home with joy, laughter, and countless cuddles.

What to Buy Before Getting a New Puppy

Now that you know everything to expect when bringing a new puppy home, you’re probably already jotting down your shopping list and mentally rearranging your living room. But just in case you’ve missed a collar, bowl, or chew toy along the way, we’ve got you covered. Here’s the ultimate list of everything you’ll need to make your new puppy feel right at home and set you up for a smooth, happy start together.

A Dog Bed

Your dog’s bed will end up being their personal sanctuary, so it’s important to find one that’s comfortable and suitably sized for your new puppy. As mentioned, puppies need plenty of rest, and having a designated place to sleep helps them feel secure and establishes good habits early on.


We suggest opting for a washable bed, because accidents happen no matter how hard we try to avoid them! A bed with bolsters can also make your pup feel snug and safe, like they’re being cuddled. Something like the Teddy London Boucle Fabric Bed for Dogs is designed exactly with this in mind, plus it comes in a range of sizes to suit your puppy’s size.

A Dog Crate

Crates can be really helpful when it comes to puppy training. They provide a safe space for your puppy to relax and help with potty training, as puppies instinctively avoid soiling where they sleep. Look for a crate that’s the right size. It wants to be just big enough for them to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably. You’ll also want to make it inviting by adding some soft dog blankets and puppy toys.

Collar, Lead & Tag

Did you know that in the UK, it’s a legal requirement for all dogs to wear a collar with an up-to-date ID tag when in public? The tag must display the owner’s name and address, and it’s a good idea to include your phone number for quick contact if your pup ever wanders off. Plus, you’ll need a well-fitted collar to place the tag on, so they stay safe. We suggest choosing a lightweight, adjustable collar that you can adjust to your pup’s size as they grow.

When your new puppy is ready to start adventuring outside, after they’ve had all their vaccinations, you’ll also need a sturdy lead. For added safety, you might also want to consider a harness, especially for new puppies that haven’t learnt to heel yet. Dogs that pull can put strain on their throat when held by a collar, whereas a well-fitted harness will distribute the pressure more evenly across their chest.

Food & Water Bowls

Your new puppy also needs proper food and water bowls to stay healthy, hydrated, and happy. While you might be tempted to use any old bowl from your kitchen, investing in bowls designed specifically for puppies makes a big difference. Look for sturdy, non-tip options that won’t slide around while your enthusiastic eater digs in.


If you’ve got a larger breed puppy, consider an elevated dog feeder to make mealtimes more comfortable for them as they grow. For those especially messy eaters (you’ll know soon enough!), a silicone mat under the bowls can keep the area tidy. And if your new puppy eats a little too fast too, you might want to consider investing in a slow feeder bowl for dogs. These are designed with grooves or ridges that make your pup work a bit harder to get their food, slowing down their eating pace.

Dog Food

Puppies grow fast, so they need lots of food that’s specially formulated for their age and size. A high-quality puppy food provides the right balance of protein, fats, and nutrients to support healthy development. If you’re unsure which brand to choose, ask your vet for recommendations.


Most puppy food brands will also recommend feeding your new puppy several small meals throughout the day, as their fast metabolism requires frequent feeding to maintain proper energy levels. This typically means feeding them 3 to 4 times a day until they are several months old, gradually reducing the frequency as they grow.

Treats & Chews

You’ll soon realise that puppy treats are essential for training. Puppies, and adult dogs for that matter, are highly motivated by tasty rewards. Look for small, soft treats that are easy to chew and won’t upset their tiny tummies. Just be sure to check the packet, as many dog treats are recommended for puppies eight weeks or older.


You can also find some long-lasting chews like bully sticks or yak chews that are perfect for teething puppies. Just make sure the chews are size-appropriate and designed for your puppy’s age. Also never leave your puppy unattended with a dog chew as when the chews reach a certain size, they can become a choking hazard.

Soft Toys

Just like human children, puppies love cuddly toys. They’re great for comfort, play, and even a little bit of teething relief. Choose soft toys without small, chewable parts like plastic eyes. Instead, go for durable fabrics that can withstand their baby teeth. Once again, don’t leave your new puppy alone with any toys, even in their crate overnight. Rope toys and squeaky puppy toys can be easy to pull apart with the small bits becoming choking hazards so always be present when your pup is playing with these..

Enrichment Toys

Mental stimulation is just as important as physical play for your puppy’s development. Enrichment toys, like lick mats and treat dispensers, keep their brains busy and help prevent boredom. Lick mats are perfect for giving your pup a tasty treat and a mental workout. We suggest covering the dog lick mat with some puppy-safe peanut butter or wet food and then freezing it for a long-lasting treat. Then you can watch as they work hard to lick the delicious treats from the tiny crevices.

Treat dispensers for dogs are also great fun. The KONG Puppy toy is ideal for filling with your new puppy’s favourite treats, peanut butter or natural yoghurt. You could create a special recipe filled with all your dog’s favourite things and leave it to freeze so it lasts even longer. KONG dog toys are also perfect because they’re dishwasher-safe, so that’s less housework for you and more time for puppy play.

Poo Bags

We hate to break it to you, but puppies poop, a lot. So, you’ll always want to be prepared with a stash of poo bags for cleaning up after your little one during walks or garden potty breaks. Biodegradable options are an eco-friendly choice, and dog poo bag holders that clip to your lead make them easy to grab when you need them. Trust us, there’s nothing worse than being out with your dog and realising you’re without poo bags!

Dog Brush

We recommend grooming your puppy early to get them used to being brushed. It’s not only great for their coat but also your relationship, as it builds trust and rapport. Choose a dog brush that’s suitable for your puppy’s coat type: soft bristle brushes for short-haired breeds or slicker brushes for longer-haired pups. Regular brushing helps remove loose fur, prevents mats, and keeps their coat looking fabulous.

Dog Shampoo

Your puppy is going to enjoy getting messy; it’s part of the fun after all. So, whether they’ve had a little potty accident or found a nice big puddle in the garden, you’re going to want some dog shampoo at hand to keep them clean and smelling fresh. Avoid using human shampoo or dish detergent as this can irritate their skin and cause more problems. Instead, make sure you find a dog-safe shampoo that is specifically formulated for your new puppy.

Puppy Pads & Cleaning Supplies

While these might not be the most glamorous items on your list, they’re definitely essentials. Puppy pads are a lifesaver during potty training, especially if you live in an apartment or can’t get outside quickly. We also suggest stocking up on enzymatic cleaners to tackle accidents as these are purposely designed to remove odours and prevent repeat offenses in the same spot.

Conclusion

Bringing a puppy home is one of the most exciting and joyful times in your life and trust us, it’s a decision you’ll never regret. Here at WOOOF, we can confidently say that our dogs are the best things to ever happen to us. And although we won’t sit here and pretend the puppy stage is all sunshine and rainbows, we will promise you that it’s absolutely worth it.

Sure, there’ll be moments of chaos like a chewed slipper here, an accident on the carpet there, but those challenges pale in comparison to the unconditional love, laughter, and companionship your puppy will bring into your life. With the right preparation and all the essentials on hand, those moments become a lot easier to handle.


Hopefully, after reading this guide, you’re feeling more confident and ready to welcome your new puppy home. And of course, WOOOF is here to help you along the way. We have everything you need to help your new puppy settle in and thrive, from comfy leads and harnesses to durable chew toys, soft plushies, treat dispensers, lick mats, food and water bowls, and so much more. So, grab your puppy shopping list and stock up on all the essentials over on our website here.

The Author: Charlotte Harris

Charlotte has been a writer and dog owner her whole life, so combining these two things together is a dream come true. Her greatest love is her oversized Golden Retriever, Milo, who has a love of tough chews and anything filled with peanut butter!

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How long can puppies be left alone for?

Puppies, especially those under 3 months old, should not be left alone for extended periods. Their small bladders and high energy levels mean they need frequent bathroom breaks, social interaction, and mental stimulation. Generally, puppies under 3 months should be left alone for no more than 1 to 2 hours at a time. For older puppies, you can gradually increase this time, but no dog should be left alone for more than 4 hours.


To avoid leaving your puppy alone for long periods, consider organising a dog sitter or asking a friend or family member to drop by. If they’re old enough, you could also consider enrolling your pup in a puppy daycare for socialisation and playtime. If you do have to leave your puppy for a short time, make sure they have access to safe toys, a comfy spot to rest, and water. Crate training can also help them feel more secure when alone.

When can I take my new puppy for a walk outdoors?

You can start taking your puppy for short walks outdoors once they’ve completed their vaccination schedule, which usually occurs around 12-16 weeks of age. Before this, it’s best to keep them indoors or in a secure, puppy-safe environment to minimise the risk of exposure to harmful diseases like parvovirus and distemper.


If your puppy is younger than 12 weeks, consider socialising them in a safe environment, like your home or a puppy training class, to help with early socialisation. Once they’re vaccinated, you can then start with short walks around the block and gradually increase the distance. Be mindful of your puppy’s developing joints, so avoid long walks or runs until they’re a bit older.

When can my new puppy meet other dogs?

Socialisation is key to raising a well-adjusted puppy, but it’s important to wait until your puppy has had their first set of vaccinations before meeting other dogs. Typically, puppies can start socialising with other dogs around 8-10 weeks of age. Make sure any other dogs your new puppy meets are up to date on their vaccinations, friendly, and well-behaved.


Socialisation should be gradual, so try starting with one or two calm, vaccinated dogs in a safe, controlled environment. Puppy playdates or puppy classes are a great way to expose them to other dogs in a controlled setting. Early, positive experiences with other dogs can help your puppy develop good social skills and prevent behavioural problems down the line.

How do I get my puppy to sleep alone?

It’s normal for puppies to experience some separation anxiety in the first few nights. At the end of the day, they’ve only ever known sleeping with their Mum and siblings. So be patient with them and eventually, they’ll learn to sleep independently. Crate training is a fantastic method to help your puppy feel safe and secure while sleeping alone. Start by introducing your puppy to their crate early on, making it a positive space with treats, toys, and cosy bedding.


Begin by letting your puppy spend short periods inside the crate while you're home, and gradually extend the duration. Eventually, once they’re comfortable, you can start leaving them in the crate at night. If your puppy whines or cries, try not to give in right away. You can comfort them briefly without letting them out of the crate. Consistency is key, and with time, your puppy will feel more secure and confident sleeping alone.

How do I stop my puppy from biting?

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, and teething can make them especially nippy, but it’s important to teach them bite inhibition and redirect their attention to appropriate outlets. When your puppy nips or bites, firmly say “no” or “ouch” to signal that the behaviour isn’t acceptable. Then immediately offer them a chew toy or an appropriate item to bite instead. Again, consistency is crucial and positive reinforcement like treats and praise will work wonders.

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