How to prepare for a new dog: the essential checklist

Dog

Our expert advice

Advice by Sue Ketland, Dog behaviour and training specialist

Don’t just pick a dog for their appearance. Look for a breed that suits your lifestyle. Consider their exercise needs, how much training is required and grooming routine.

Think about where your dog is going to sleep, eat and spend most of their time. A quiet sleeping spot will help your new canine companion rest and settle. It’s also important that dogs are left to eat in peace.

Make a list of all the items your new dog will need. We’ve suggested a few below. Having everything ready will save you worrying on the day you bring your dog home.

Dog proof your home, especially if you’re getting a puppy! Tidy up and make sure chewable things are out of sight and mind. It's worth checking your garden to make sure there are no holes in the fence or hedges, and that all plants are dog friendly.

Prepare a list of questions to ask the breeder, seller or rescue centre about the dog. You can find some example questions below.

Don’t forget the services you may need including vets, groomers, secure fields, dog trainers and dog walkers. Research them now so you know who to call when the time comes.

Here’s a short list of some of the many questions to ask a breeder:
Can you see the parents?
What health tests have the parents had?
What are the parents like as pets? (It’s likely the pups will take after them)

For adult dogs you could ask:
What is their current routine?
Where do they sleep?
Do they have any basic training?

More information

Suggested shopping list:

- Pet insurance
- Bed and bedding
- Crate or pen
- Stair gates
- Food bowls
- Harness, collar, lead
- Name tag
- Grooming equipment
- Chews and toys
- Food and treats (find out what the breeder or rescue has been using)
- Long line lead
- Treat pouch (for you!)
- Harness for travel or crate
- Poo bags

Three things you can do today

Research dog breeds

Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s worth looking at all the possible breeds and finding out about their characteristics, needs and lifespan.

Put together a shopping list

Before you bring your new canine companion home, make sure you have everything you need, because they’ll take up all your time when they’re here.

Dog-proof your home

Your dog will be curious of their new home, so you may want to cover furniture, tuck away any wires and check your garden is fully enclosed – in case they’re an escape artist.

Hear from other humans

Picture of a dog — Carla

📍 Wales

Dog breed: Corgi

Dog age: 3 years

Owner expertise: Novice

I was struggling with my dog's anxiety, especially when we had to leave the house. Thanks to Woodgreen's advice, I've made some changes that have worked wonders. By sticking to a consistent routine, my dog knows what to expect each day, which has significantly reduced her anxiety.

This advice really helped me and my new pup! I tried teaching recall without your guidance and struggled. Woodgreen's step-by-step dog training videos break each action down for you and I'm happy to say we finally made progress!

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