New puppy checklist, according to dog trainers and vets | CNN Underscored

Clicker for training: Oyefly Dog Training Clicker with Wrist Strap

Potty pads for accidents: Cocoyo Best Value Training Pads

Leash for walks: Mendota Pet Snap Leash

Play pen to keep them contained: Frisco Wire Dog and Small Pet Exercise Pen

Adjustable crate for sleeping: MidWest Homes Single Door iCrate Dog Crate

Whether you’re bringing home a new puppy or adopting a dog, you’re in for a big change and a new puppy checklist might be helpful. You’ll need several items to keep your dog happy, healthy and engaged — all key points that ideally make for a stress-free entry into your home.

We talked to veterinarians and trainers to help us round up the must-have items you’ll want to prepare for your pet like treats and toys, dog crates and playpens and the best dog bowls for food and water.

The most important thing to consider when bringing a new dog home? Training. “It’s worth investing in some high quality, positive-reinforcement-based training, even if the dog is middle-aged or older,” says Dr. Ariel Fagen, DVM, DACVB, a board-certified veterinary behaviorist and medical director of The Veterinary Behavior Center. “It’s common for people to do puppy training, but I think all dogs should do it when entering a new home. It’s helpful to get some structured support and sets you up for a much better life together with your dog.”

Another good tip is to meet with your local veterinarian as soon as you can and see which shots your dog needs to get. “If you are going to a puppy class or another indoor space where there have been dogs, ensure that at least all the dogs have at least one vaccine and that the place is maintaining a clean space,” says Fagen. “It’s not necessarily higher risk for a puppy to get parvovirus there, but the behavioral risk of not doing these things during the critical puppy period is actually pretty high.” Parvovirus is a highly contagious infection, but vaccinations and good hygiene can help prevent getting it.

CNN Underscored contributor Mattie Schuler recently got a six-month-old Border Collie and Australian Shepard mix, and pet editor Kai Burkhardt got a Rough Collie puppy in 2023, so we teamed up to pull together all the products that helped us survive. We also asked experts for more tips and tricks to consider when bringing home a new puppy or dog, so all you have to worry about are the endless cuddles and kisses coming your way.

As Fagen said, training is one of the first things that should be on your mind when you bring a new puppy or dog home. “For puppies, your first priorities should be getting them potty trained, crate trained, building your relationship and focusing on engagement,” says Jae Thomas, a dog show exhibitor, dog sport competitor and a dog trainer with All-Star Dog Training and Agility in Boulder, Colorado. “Don’t try to teach your puppy a bunch of new tricks in the beginning, instead focus on these core skills, which will help you have a better-adjusted dog in the future.”

“Using treats as training rewards is probably the easiest way to teach your puppy new skills if they're food-motivated,” says Thomas. “Keeping a clicker, a good treat pouch and some tasty treats of different value levels on you at all times will prep you for any training opportunities that come throughout the day.”

A higher value option, these single-ingredient, freeze-dried beef liver treats are sure to get your pup drooling. Stella & Chewy has many alternative flavors like beef liver, lamb heart and more if your pup doesn't like beef liver.

Until I got these, my dog was not really into treats, but as soon as she sniffed these freeze-dried beef heart ones from Get Joy, training became so much easier. The one-pound bag is a bit pricey, but the number of treats will surely last for months. If your dog prefers a crunchier treat, try the Charlee Bear Original Crunch Beef Liver Dog treats.

Especially when training a puppy or new dog, having treats during walks is a must. With the Utility Pack, you get a medium pocket for treats, a large pocket for toys, a ball and your phone and a special spot that dispenses poop bags. Plus, it’s water-resistant and can stay clean even after a rowdy time at the dog park. For a treat pouch smaller than this fanny pack, check out Ruffwear’s Stash Bag Plus Pickup Bag Dispenser ($40), which can attach easily to a leash, or the West Paw Treat Pouch ($30).

As Thomas mentioned, clicker training is a useful way to train your puppy or dog. It uses positive reinforcement so your dog associates the click of the clicker with treats, making it a great way to quickly reward your dog.

When it comes to potty training, Dr. Jamie Tomlin, DVM, lead veterinarian at CityVet Windhaven, recommends having one specific area where you want the dog to pee. “Also, have one phrase you use, like go potty or do your business,” she says. “Then, when it's time to go to the bathroom, take him to the area and use your phrase. Be consistent and focused. This is not playtime.” If your dog doesn’t go within a few minutes, take them inside and try again in five minutes. When they do go, give them plenty of praise, treats, and belly rubs. Accidents are inevitable, so it’s a good idea to stock up on these potty pads and line your puppy’s pen with them.

If you want extra protection, or you’re blowing through disposable potty pads too quickly, consider these ultra-absorbent, washable pads. When CNN Underscored pet editor Kai Burkhardt got his puppy, he put these pads underneath the disposable ones to ensure no accidents leaked to the floor.

“Don’t try to take your puppy on long walks,” says Thomas. “They don’t have the skills for it. Instead, focus on short training or socialization sessions outside.” Thomas also mentions it’s key to take advantage of your puppy’s critical socialization period and to expose them to as many things as possible. But as Fagen mentioned, be cautious about bringing your puppy to high-traffic areas before they get their vaccines.

The best dog collars in 2024, tried and tested

If your pup is too small for a normal collar, check out these extra-small options that are short and thin. You want to ensure your puppy’s collar is tight enough so they won’t slip out, and light enough so it won’t weigh them down. But don't just try to gear them up for a walk right away. "Since collars and leashes might be a new thing, try to introduce them slowly to your puppy with lots of treats," says Thomas. "Puppies can be especially cautious of you putting things around their head like collars and harnesses, so you need to give them time to get used to it."

Choosing the right collar for your dog can feel like quite the venture, but the Orvis Dog’s Adjustable Collar is an easy, no-frills choice. It’s durable and strong for hefty dogs and has a heavy-duty release buckle and a D-ring to attach the leash. When you order through Orvis, you can customize it for free, too, with your dog’s name and your phone number.

Most dogs pull on their leash, especially until it is trained out of them. With a harness, like Ruffwear’s Front Range Dog Harness, the pressure is taken off their neck and dispersed through their upper body. My pup Imogene, a seven-month-old Border Collie and Australian Shepard mix, and I like this harness because of its slight padding, reflective elements and rings for her leash both in the front and on the back. For a slimmer option, check out Ruffwear’s Hi & Light Lightweight Dog Harness ($40)

The best dog harnesses in 2024, tried and tested

If you want to walk your dog on a harness instead, this dog harness uses a soft mesh and comes in extra small sizing. Make sure to measure your pup before ordering, and even though they’ll probably grow out of it eventually, it’s a good idea to size up at least a tiny bit so they fit in it longer.

This sturdy, durable leash is a go-to because you can use it like a regular hand-held leash. But when I prefer to go hands-free, it easily adjusts to wear around my waist without digging in, even if my dog pulls.

The best dog leashes in 2024, tried and tested

Our pick for the best dog leash, the Mendota Pet Snap Leash is simple, lightweight and durable. Its braided-rope construction is soft to the touch and easy to hold onto, and its budget-friendly price made it a no-brainer when we tested the best dog leashes on the market.

Our pick for the best budget hands-free dog leash is probably too heavy for puppies and small breeds, but once they’re all grown up, it’s a great leash to stay attached to your dog on walks. Freeing up your hands is great for walks when you’re training, so you can focus on clicking and rewarding your dog.

Be a good dog owner and pick up your pup’s poop. The Dog Poop Bag Holder clips onto a leash with two carabiners and is made from a flexible polyester so that even when I accidentally dropped the leash on the sidewalk, it didn’t break.

Don't forget to stock up on poop bags, because you'll always need them. These from Amazon Basics are cheap and even come with an included dispenser.

If you're heading to a space where other dogs might be for playtime, consider what shots your dog has. If they haven’t had all their rounds yet, try playdates with friends or neighbors whose dog’s vaccination statuses are known and up to date. If you want to socialize your pup without it touching the ground before it has its vaccines (or you just want to stuff your puppy in a backpack for some crazy cute photos), consider a backpack like this one from K9 Sport Sack to safely expose them to the world.

For night walks or quick pee breaks, the Nite Ize Nite Howl LED necklace is ideal for keeping your dog visible. Triolo likes this collar because it has different modes, from blue to red and even a disco mode, which lights up with various colors and makes it even flashier and safer to walk your furry friend in the dark. Bonus: it’s rechargeable. Other Nite Ize light-up options include a clip-on collar attachment, like the SpotLit Collar Light.

If you live in a colder climate, popping a coat on your dog before heading outside can make their walk more comfortable. The double-layered Wilderdog Sherpa Jacket is a very soft fleece coat that is easy to put on, has a hole for the leash to slip through and even a little pocket on the back. If you need a coat that is a bit more burly to withstand extreme elements, check out the Precision Fit Xtream Winter Dog Coat from Cloak and Dawggie ($84 for a size medium). This one is about as thick as the Wilderdog one but is windproof and waterproof, plus it has a fur lining.

17 best dog winter coats to keep your pup warm

Using a crate or a playpen helps new dogs because it gives them a space to retreat to that is only for them. If you have other pets or kids, ensure this special place for your pup isn’t accessible to others. Pens are especially useful because they give puppies space to roam around, but the smaller area discourages them from peeing.

“To get a dog comfortable with their crate, leave the crate with the door off or fixed open so that it can’t suddenly close on them,” Fagen says. Use a comfortable bed (see below) and pop in a long-lasting treat for entertainment, like the Woof Pupsicle. If your dog is wary about the crate, start with it just in the space like any other piece of furniture. Play in-and-out games with them near the crate and give them treats in it so that they associate the crate with good times. With a scared dog, start with short durations in the crate, and then work their way up to longer periods.

“This crate is great for my puppy,” says Gabriella Triolo, Social Coordinator for CNN Underscored and owner of a 5-month-old Coonhound. “I love that it has the divider door, so it's adjustable as they grow, and there is plenty of space to add a water bowl and bed.”

Make sure the crate you buy for your new dog is the right size. “It should be tall enough so that a dog can fully stand up with its head at a normal carriage,” Fagen says. “The crate should also be wide and long enough so the dog can make a full circle when standing inside and lie down without its nose touching the edge.” This crate, which has a removable divider, can help the crate grow with your puppy so you don’t have to buy a new one after six months.

“It's important to have a crate or pen area for a new puppy for potty training and to keep them safe,” says Thomas. “Puppies naturally want to keep their sleeping area clean, so you can capitalize on that instinct for potty training by crating them when they're not supervised. Crates and pens will also keep your puppy from eating or chewing anything they're not supposed to if you're not watching them.”

This pen from Amazon Basics has eight panels and is 36 inches high; you might not need one that high for your dog, but be mindful of your dog’s potential to jump over the sides (like mine tried once or twice). It’s easy to assemble and can be configured into different shapes.

The Lay Lo Dog Bed System consists of an orthopedic, water-resistant mattress insert and various covers. It is on the pricier side, but it is machine washable, durable against digging, has an anti-slip bottom that stays put and has a water-resistant liner (which my pup also tested…). Bonus: the beds come with a one-year warranty.

The best dog beds, according to vets

Puppies can be prone to chewing, especially in their teething phase, so it’s important to get a chew-resistant pad for their crate. This one from Gorilla Ballistic offers a 125-day chew-proof warranty.

If your dog isn’t a chewer, this donut bed should be on your list because it’s incredibly cozy and plays into dogs’ natural nesting tendencies. Plus, all sizes are machine-washable or have removable, machine-washable covers.

An elevated dog bed or cot is an easy way to get your dog off hard or hot ground. The Cooling Elevated Dog Bed from Amazon Basics uses a breathable, mesh fabric and is easy to assemble.

Puppies have a lot of energy, so playing with them and giving them activities is critical. Puppies shouldn’t be able to chew up many toys since they’re not that strong yet, but it’s important to keep an eye on any dog you don’t know very well when they’re playing with toys. “Puppies have a lot of energy and it can be hard to keep them entertained throughout the day,” says Thomas. “Enrichment toys and chews are a good way to keep your puppy occupied and give them some mental stimulation without having to do too much work.”

The best Kong dog toys, according to our dog

The original Chuckit! ball launcher is one of the best toys if your dog likes to play fetch. It can launch a ball way farther than throwing and is easier on the shoulders, too. This foldable launcher fits easily into a fanny pack and takes up less awkward space than the regular one, but it works just as well.

An easy way to ensure your dog always has all the toys it needs is with a BarkBox. These boxes are delivered right to your door and are full of exciting toys and snacks to keep your pooch occupied.

If your dog likes to play fetch in the water, this durable floating toy from Chuckit! will stay floating on the water so your pup can retrieve it more easily.

Fill up the puzzle when you leave or your dog seems antsy. It will keep them entertained easily and give them a little snack. Burkhardt loves this puzzle for his dog Miso because she can use up much of her mental energy.

The Woof is another excellent, time-consuming toy for any dog. I filled it with frozen Pupsicle Pops from Woof and made my own snacks in the silicone mold. My new puppy likes a mixture of peanut butter and yogurt — it keeps her busy when I run errands — while other ideas include freezing bone broth or wet food. The starter pack includes the Pupsicle Pops and the silicone mold for DIY treats.

Nearly every dog owner has a Kong, and it’s for a good reason. They’re one of the best and easiest ways to give your dog a treat as they rest in their crate. Just fill it with (sugar- and salt-free) peanut butter, pop it in the freezer, then give it to your dog for a long-lasting game. While Kong’s are great, we’ve found an even better alternative in the West Paw Toppl. Here’s why we think you should get a Toppl instead.

Bully sticks can be another great chewing activity for puppies, especially when their jaws aren’t strong so the bully stick can last several sessions. "Chewing is a self-soothing behavior so it can help relieve tension," says Thomas. "It also makes them tired which is a big plus for busy dog parents."

This dog bowl was the best we’ve ever tested because it has a hefty weight with a fully grippy bottom, so it didn’t spill even when really energetic dogs went in for dinner.

To hydrate your dog, go with the Upsky No-Spill Pet Water Bowl. This bowl was our winning choice, as it kept our floors dry even with the slobberiest drinkers.

“These collapsible bowls are not only affordable but great quality and get the job done,” says Triolo, who uses these with her Coonhound. “I love that they come in a pack of two, which is great if you have more than one dog, or need a backup. You can attach it to a leash or on your belt loop, making it accessible and easy to travel with.”

If you have a dog who scarfs down food within seconds, try Mr. Peanut’s Silicone Slow Feeder. This slow-feeder bowl was another one of our favorite dog bowls, thanks to its soft, teeth-friendly silicone, and it’s the perfect level for most dogs to stay engaged while eating at a safer rate.

Regarding regular food, try to keep the same diet as what was served to the dog before you adopted them. If you don’t have that information, pick an age-appropriate food. The food bags should say "regulated by the AAFCO," which is a non-profit that sets standards for dog food. “The bag tells you what the food is designed for,” says Fagen, “like growth for puppies or maintenance for adult dogs.” If your dog is less than one year old, choose growth food. Fagen cited newer research that cautions against feeding grain-free, specialty food diets for dogs, as that diet is associated with a heart condition. “I often recommend clients go with a company with a veterinary nutritionist on staff, like the bigger name companies,” she says.

Another big name in the dog food world is Royal Canin. Its puppy mix is formulated specifically to help immune support, digestive health and growth.

While you may be focused on potty and crate training, another fantastic thing to do with your dog when they’re young is to get them used to grooming. “The critical socialization period — when your puppy is younger than 16 weeks old — is the best time to introduce them to grooming,” says Thomas. “Practice handling your dog’s paws and trimming their nails while they’re young, and make sure to use lots of high-value treats every time you groom them. That way they don’t fight you when they’re older.” You’ll also want to stock up on cleaning supplies since potty training doesn’t always go as planned.

These dog nail clippers are simple and comfortable to use, and they come with a safety stop to help you avoid cutting too much of their nail. Even if your puppy's nails aren’t growing very long, it’s a good idea to trim a little bit off the top so they get used to the sensation.

If your puppy is going to grow into a larger dog, sometimes nail clippers can’t provide enough force to quickly and cleanly cut through those thick nails. That’s why it’s important to desensitize your dog to nail grinders too. This rechargeable one from Dremel includes a nail guard to protect your dog’s paws. "Using a Dremel is the best way to trim your dog's nails," says Thomas. "Grinding down the nails instead of clipping them allows you to take off a little bit at a time, that way you're less likely to accidentally cut their quick."

According to Kai Burkhardt, pet editor at CNN Underscored, the Chom Chom Roller Pet Hair Remover does exactly what it says — removes the stickiest fur on the most stubborn couch surfaces. It’s one of the most popular hair removers for a reason, but if you want something even better, check out our review of the Groomer’s Stone.

Protecting the seats of your car is necessary post-dog park or pup play date. The Urpower Dog Car Seat Cover is a hammock-style, waterproof cover with a harder bottom so dogs can rest easy. It has two pockets, zippered side flaps and a mesh window between the two front seats.

Another dog car cover option, this one from Meadowlark is adjustable, has a mesh window and even has seat anchors that help it stay in place.

The Earthbath products smell so good and are truly gentle on your dogs. The shampoo and conditioner left my dog feeling very soft, while the wipes and spray are perfect for when she accidentally pees herself but might not need a full bath.

When bathing your new dog for the first time, keep it fun, “The best way to get a puppy used to all the new things they’ll be introduced to is with positive reinforcement,” says Tomlin. “Smear some peanut butter on the side of the tub or have their favorite training treats available to spoil and praise them after their first bath.”

This enzymatic stain remover works wonders on accidents in the house, and it’s one of the first things the rescue and vet recommended Burkhardt get. The formula is designed to break down and clean up any accident your puppy might have.

The Bissell Little Green is one of our favorite portable carpet cleaners because it’s so easy to use and incredibly effective on small messes. Read our full review here.