List of Things for a New Lab Puppy

As a responsible pet owner, it is important to make sure that you have certain items already purchased and in place when you bring home your new Labrador retriever puppy. There are many essential items that a puppy will need to be healthy and comfortable, and a few optional supplies as well. By having your puppy supplies ready before your new dog comes home, you can ensure that there are no last- minute trips to the store and help make your puppies transition to their new home less stressful and traumatic.

  1. Feeding Dishes

    • Having a dedicated feeding dish for your new Lab puppy is important, especially if you have other dogs that will be eating at the same time. Your new puppy will need to learn to eat from his own food bowls and not from the bowls of other pets. Clean stainless steel food and water dishes are often recommended because stainless steel is less likely to harbor bacterial growth and is easier to clean. Look for bowls with weighted bottoms to prevent spillage if your puppy tries to play with his food or water.

    Collar/Harness and Leash

    • A collar, or harness, with a leash is essential for your new Lab puppy, even if you have a fenced-in yard where the dog can run and play. Not only can a collar and leash be a valuable training tool inside the home when introducing your pet to other animals or guests, but you should always use them when taking your dog to a public location.

    Food

    • Before bringing your puppy home, ask the breeder or dog seller what brand of puppy food and the amount they are feeding your dog. Even if you intend to switch the brand of puppy food your Lab is eating, you should gradually transition them from the old food to the new to avoid digestion problems. Have a supply of the food they are conditioned to eating on hand before bringing them home to make this transition easier.

    Crate/Shelter

    • If you will be crate training your dog, your crate should be purchased and set up before the puppy comes home. You may want to add a dog bed or blankets to the crate for the dog's comfort. If the dog will be living outside, have an area of the yard already secured and a doghouse in place.

    Veterinarian

    • Before bringing your Lab puppy home, establish an appointment with the local veterinarian you have chosen. Take your new puppy to the vet within at least a week of his arrival to ensure there are no immediate health conditions that need to be addressed and start with his initial routine veterinary care.