Updated for 2026 | Reading time: 7 minutes
Congratulations, you're getting a puppy! It's one of the most exciting times in any pet lover's life. But between the excitement and the adorable puppy eyes, there's a lot to prepare. Having the right supplies ready before your pup arrives makes the transition smoother for everyone.
Here's your complete new puppy shopping checklist, tailored for Australian pet parents.
The Essential Puppy Checklist
1. Food and Water Bowls
Start with stainless steel bowls — they're durable, easy to clean, and won't harbour bacteria like plastic can. Get a non-slip design so your pup doesn't push it across the kitchen floor during enthusiastic mealtimes.
Budget: $15-30 for a quality set
2. Puppy Food
Ask your breeder or rescue what food the puppy has been eating, and stick with it for the first few weeks. Any food transitions should be done gradually over 7-10 days to avoid tummy upsets.
Tip: Look for Australian-approved puppy food appropriate for your breed size (small, medium, or large breed).
3. Dog Harness and Lead
Skip the collar for walks — a puppy harness is much safer and more comfortable for young dogs. Their necks are still developing, and a harness distributes pressure across the chest instead.
Choose an adjustable harness that can grow with your puppy for the first few months. Check out our dog harness collection for breathable, adjustable options perfect for puppies.
Budget: $25-45
4. Crate or Playpen
Crate training is one of the best things you can do for your puppy. It gives them a safe space, helps with toilet training, and prevents destructive behaviour when you can't supervise.
Choose a crate that's big enough for your puppy's adult size (with a divider to adjust as they grow).
Budget: $50-120
5. Bedding
A comfortable, washable dog bed gives your puppy a designated sleeping spot. For crate training, a simple crate mat or pet blanket works perfectly — and is easy to wash when accidents happen (and they will!).
Budget: $20-50
6. Toilet Training Supplies
- Puppy pads — Essential for the first few weeks, especially for apartment dwellers
- Enzymatic cleaner — Regular cleaners won't fully remove the scent. Enzymatic cleaners break down the proteins so your pup won't re-mark the same spot
- Poop bags — Stock up! You'll go through more than you think
Budget: $20-40
7. Chew Toys
Puppies teethe, and they WILL chew everything in sight. Provide appropriate chew toys to save your shoes, furniture, and sanity. A mix of textures is best:
- Rubber chew toys (like Kong-style toys you can fill with treats)
- Rope toys for gentle tug games
- Soft plush toys for comfort
- Textured teething toys for sore gums
Browse our interactive dog toys for mentally stimulating options that also satisfy the chewing urge.
Budget: $20-40
8. Interactive and Puzzle Toys
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for puppies. Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys keep your puppy's brain engaged and help prevent boredom-related behaviour problems.
Our Dog Puzzle Toys and Smart Interactive Balls are perfect for keeping clever puppies entertained.
Budget: $15-35
9. Grooming Supplies
- Puppy shampoo — Use a gentle, dog-specific formula (never human shampoo)
- Brush or comb — Type depends on your puppy's coat (slicker brush for long coats, bristle brush for short coats)
- Nail clippers — Start handling your puppy's paws early so they're comfortable with nail trims
- Toothbrush and dog toothpaste — Start dental care early for lifelong healthy teeth
Budget: $30-60
10. Treats for Training
Training starts from day one! Small, soft training treats are ideal because your puppy can eat them quickly without getting distracted. Look for Australian-made treats with natural ingredients.
A treat pouch that clips to your belt makes training sessions much easier — no more fumbling in your pockets!
Budget: $10-25
11. ID Tag and Microchip
In Australia, microchipping is mandatory in all states and territories. Your breeder or rescue should provide a microchipped puppy, but make sure to update the registration details to your name and address.
An ID tag on the collar/harness with your phone number is also essential for quick identification.
Budget: $5-15 for a tag (microchip usually included in purchase/adoption)
12. Portable Water Bottle
Australian summers are no joke. A portable dog water bottle is a must-have for walks, trips to the park, and car rides. Our leak-proof dog water bottles are designed for one-handed use — perfect when you're wrangling a puppy on a lead.
Budget: $15-25
Nice-to-Have Extras
- Car seat cover or dog seatbelt — For safe car travel
- Snuffle mat — Great for mental enrichment and slowing down fast eaters
- Puppy playpen — Creates a safe area when you can't watch them constantly
- Dog camera — Keep an eye on your pup when you're out
- Slow feeder bowl — If your puppy inhales food
Estimated Total Budget
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Food & Water Bowls | $15-30 |
| Harness & Lead | $25-45 |
| Crate | $50-120 |
| Bedding | $20-50 |
| Toilet Training Supplies | $20-40 |
| Toys (chew + interactive) | $35-75 |
| Grooming Supplies | $30-60 |
| Treats & Training Pouch | $10-25 |
| ID Tag | $5-15 |
| Water Bottle | $15-25 |
| Total Estimate | $225-485 |
💡 Save with our bundles! Our Dog Starter Kit ($89.95) includes a harness, water bottle, treat pouch, and chew toy — saving you over $40 compared to buying separately.
First Week Survival Tips
- Set up a designated puppy area before they arrive — crate, bed, bowls, and toys all in one spot.
- Puppy-proof your home — get down to puppy level and remove anything dangerous or chewable.
- Establish a routine immediately — regular feeding times, toilet breaks, play, and sleep.
- Be patient with toilet training — take them outside every 1-2 hours and after every meal, nap, and play session.
- Start socialisation early — expose your puppy to different sounds, surfaces, people, and (vaccinated) dogs.
- Book a vet check-up within the first week to establish a vaccination schedule.
Shop Puppy Essentials at DeservePetGo
At DeservePetGo, we're passionate about helping new pet parents get off to the best start. Our range of dog supplies is carefully selected for quality, value, and Aussie conditions.
Every order ships free across Australia. Got questions? We're always here to help — because we're pet parents too!