The Ultimate Puppy Guide

Before getting my puppy Bentley I read easily over 100 articles about everything from training to food to toys. I wanted to write this ultimate guide to help anyone who is about to get a puppy or is thinking about getting one. A lot of these items also work for adult dogs. My main piece of advice is to hang in there and that it does get easier with time. I got Bentley when he was 12 weeks old and it has definitely been an adventure! Trust me, it’s so worth it. I hope this is helpful and if you have any questions feel free to send me an email!

Training

Perfect Puppy in 7 Days Book: If you buy anything from this list it should be this book! It gives very specific instructions on how to train your puppy and photos to go along with it.

Artificial Grass for Dogs: This is a must-have to put on your balcony (if you have one). I know some people put it in a corner of their house but I’m sure the smell isn’t great.

Training Clicker with Wrist Strap: Works wonders when it comes to training. Make sure to take it everywhere you go.

Food & Treats

Purina Pro Plan: This is what our vet recommended and Bentley absolutely loves it.

N-Bone Puppy Teething Rings Chicken Flavor: This is the perfect treat for puppies and it also helps them with teething.

Charlee Bear Grain-Free Bear Crunch: I usually use these when he pees on the balcony as a reward.

Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits Natural Soft-Moist Training Dog Treats: I typically give him one of these every time he goes into the crate whether it is during the day or at night as a reward.

KONG – Puppy Toy Natural Teething Rubber: This is great for teething, to slow puppies down while they are eating, and for when you leave the house and leave the puppy in a crate. I usually fill it with kibble at the bottom and at the top I put either peanut butter or greek yogurt.

Treat Tumble Blue Interactive Treat-Dispensing Puzzle Dog Toy: It’s great to make sure puppies slow down when they are eating. It can be dangerous when they eat too quickly.

Leashes and Outdoor Needs

Voyager Dog Harness: I swear by this. I didn’t want to put him in a collar because of how small he is (personal preference).

TUG 360° Tangle-Free, Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash: I have tried several leashes and this one is by far my favorite.

SlowTon Pet Carrier: HIGHLY recommend this. I had Bentley for over a month before he could go to the park because of the parvo shots so I carried him around everywhere so he could get some fresh air.

Crates, Beds & Toys

iCrate Dog Crate Starter Kit | 30-Inch: I bought the 24 inch given his weight but soon upgraded to the 30 inch so he would have a little bit more space.

Two-Door Top-Load Hard-Sided Pet Travel Carrier: I started off with this crate and still use it at times. Gets great reviews.

Dog Bed: Tried a few of them and this was my favorite.

New World Foldable Exercise Playpen: A lot of people swear by this playpen. Bentley didn’t love being in it so we use it as a gate in front of the stairs. Works very well.

9 Pack Puppy Squeaky Plush Dog Toys Set: He loooves these. Some pieces will be ripped off haha.

Dog Chew Toys for Aggressive Chewers: He had a very hard time with teething so definitely recommend this.

Cleaning Supplies

Stain & Odor Eliminator: You will use this especially in the first 2-3 months until he is fully potty trained and doesn’t go in the house anymore.

Miracle Laundry Boost Stain and Odor: This is a necessity especially when the puppy pees on things.

Earth Rated Dog Wipes: I love to use these wipes in between baths as it makes his fur really smooth and fluffy.

Poop Bags: 300 bags which is very convenient.

Grooming

Soft Bristle Pet Brush: Love love this brush. It’s soft and easy on the fur.

Hypoallergenic Shampoo: Love this for when I give him baths.

Nylabone Advanced Oral Care Puppy Dental Kit: Oral hygiene is crucial so I use this.

Other Essentials

GoTags Stainless Steel Pet ID Tags: This was very cheap and I love the look!

Color Noise Sound Machines: This has 25 different noises and colors which are great for when the puppy stays home alone.

Fleece Lined Warm Dog Jacket for Puppy: I think this is so cute and it stayed on really well for him when it got colder for a few months.

Xo,

Kika