The PAW Library · Puppy Guide

The New Puppy Checklist

Everything Canadian families need before bringing a puppy home — supplies, home setup, nutrition, vet care, training, and socialization, in one place.

Home setup

Puppy-proof every room before pickup day so day one is calm, not chaotic.

Crate sized to your puppy's adult breed (with divider for growth)
Exercise pen or gated area in a low-traffic room
Non-slip mats over hardwood or tile
Soft washable bedding (skip stuffed beds until chewing settles)
Outlet covers, cord protectors, baby gates at stairs
Secure trash bins; medications and houseplants out of reach
Designated potty spot outside (and pee pads for overnight if apartment)

Daily supplies

The everyday gear your puppy will actually use in the first 12 weeks home.

Two stainless or ceramic bowls (water + food)
Flat collar with ID tag (name + your phone)
4–6 ft leash plus a longer 15 ft training line
Well-fitted Y-front harness for walks
Poop bags + holder
Enzymatic cleaner for accidents (avoid ammonia)
Grooming basics: soft brush, puppy shampoo, nail clippers or grinder, dog toothbrush + paste

Nutrition

Stick to what your breeder fed for at least 2 weeks, then transition slowly.

2-week supply of the food your breeder uses (raw, fresh, or premium)
Measuring cup or kitchen scale for accurate portions
Single-ingredient training treats (freeze-dried liver, salmon)
Long-lasting safe chews appropriate for puppy teeth
Lick mat + puppy-safe topper for calming routines
Fresh filtered water available at all times

Health & vet care

Book the first appointment before you bring puppy home.

Vet appointment scheduled within 72 hours of pickup
Copy of vaccination + deworming records from your breeder
Microchip registered in your name
Pet insurance quoted and enrolled (Petsecure is our Canadian partner)
Tick prevention plan discussed with your vet for your region
Emergency vet clinic phone number saved in your phone
Puppy first-aid kit (gauze, vet wrap, styptic powder, digital thermometer)

Training & socialization

The first 16 weeks shape the dog you'll live with for the next 15 years.

Reputable positive-reinforcement puppy class booked
Clicker or marker word chosen (and used consistently)
Daily 'new things' list: surfaces, sounds, people, calm dogs
Crate training plan — short, positive sessions multiple times a day
Potty schedule posted on the fridge (every 1–2 hours awake)
Name + recall games started on day one
Handling practice: paws, ears, mouth, tail — paired with treats

Paperwork & people

The administrative side that's easy to forget in the excitement.

Breeder contract reviewed and filed
Municipal dog licence applied for
Trusted dog walker, sitter, or boarding option researched
Family rules agreed on: who feeds, who walks, who trains
Photos + journal started for your Memory Pack

Make it official

Save every memory from day one

The PAW Privileges Memory Pack is built to capture the firsts — first night home, first walk, first vet visit — alongside the partner products your breeder already trusts.

Explore the Memory Pack Create your account