Puppy Essentials: 10 Must-Have Items for Your New Dog
Bringing a new puppy home is one of life’s most exciting adventures. Whether you're preparing for your tiny tail-wagger’s arrival or already knee-deep in puppy cuddles, making sure you’ve got all the right gear is essential for a smooth start. At Petdirect, we get pet, so we’ve rounded up the top 10 things every puppy needs to thrive. From nutritious food to stimulating toys, this guide will help set up your fur baby’s new life with confidence and care.
1. Quality Puppy Food
Nutrition is the cornerstone of healthy growth, and puppies need a balanced diet tailored to their unique needs. Look for complete, specially formulated puppy food to support development, energy levels, and immunity. Trusted brands like Royal Canin and Hill’s Science Diet offer breed-size and age-appropriate options that are perfect for growing pups.
2. Cosy Bed And Crate
Every pup needs a comfy place to rest after a day of sniffing, zooming and playing. A good quality dog bed provides essential support for joints and can help with crate training. Pair it with a dog crate to create a safe, den-like environment your puppy can call their own.
3. Safe And Stimulating Toys
Playtime is key to a puppy’s development. It encourages bonding, mental stimulation, and burns off that endless energy. Choose puppy-safe toys that are durable but gentle on young teeth. Interactive options from brands like KONG and Nina Ottosson are pupular picks for hours of entertainment.
4. Healthy Treats For Training
Training is an exciting part of puppyhood, and nothing motivates a munchkin like treats! Stock up on training treats that are small, soft, and easy to digest. Look for natural options like ZIWI and K9 Natural for reward-worthy ingredients you can feel good about.
5. Collar, Lead And ID Tag
Exploration is a big part of growing up, so every pup needs proper walking gear. Choose a lightweight collar or harness that fits snugly and comfortably. Don’t forget an ID tag with your contact details for peace of mind.
6. Training Essentials
Consistency is key to early puppy training. With the help of puppy training essentials like clickers, puppy pads, and crate dividers, you can make lessons fun and rewarding. We also recommend positive reinforcement tools to keep your pup paw-sitive and engaged.
7. Grooming Supplies
Getting your pup used to regular grooming early on builds great habits for life. Stock up on puppy-safe grooming tools like soft brushes, gentle shampoos, and nail trimmers. Look for brands like smith&burton and WashBar for gentle, nourishing grooming products made in Aotearoa.
8. Flea And Worm Prevention
Protecting your puppy from parasites is essential to their health. Puppies in New Zealand need regular flea and worm treatments from an early age. Explore our range of flea and worm preventatives to keep your pup itch-free and thriving.
9. Food And Water Bowls
Choose sturdy, easy-to-clean bowls that suit your pup’s size and feeding style. Puppies benefit from slow feeders or puzzle bowls that encourage mindful eating and digestion. Don’t forget a fresh, flowing water source like a smart pet fountain to keep hydration fun and flowing.
10. Puppy Starter Pack
Short on time? We’ve tail-ored our puppy starter packs to include all the puppy-raising must-haves in one handy bundle. Perfect for first-time pet parents or as a thoughtful gift.
Happy Puppy, Happy Life
Your puppy’s early days are filled with milestones, cuddles, and paw-some new experiences. Having the right essentials on hand ensures your newest family member feels safe, happy, and cared for from day one. Explore everything you need at our Puppy Shop and make the most of our Pet Perks programme and Airpoints rewards while you shop. We get pet—so you get peace of mind.