This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of The J.M. Smucker Company. The opinions and text are all mine.

Bringing Home a New Puppy: Your Ultimate Must-Haves and Essential Guide

After a wonderful decade with our beloved dog, May, our family is embarking on a thrilling new adventure: welcoming a new puppy into our home. The decision to expand our furry family has filled us with immense excitement, and today, I’m thrilled to share an essential guide to preparing for a new puppy, outlining the absolute must-haves that will ensure a smooth and happy transition for everyone.

Our journey with May began when she was just a nine-week-old pup, a tiny bundle of joy that quickly became the center of our lives. Now, over ten years later, she’s a cherished senior dog, and the prospect of raising another lab mix puppy feels like a fresh, exciting chapter. We felt this was the perfect time, especially with our children growing older and eager to participate in the puppy-raising process. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and I believe they’re just as excited as I am, if not more! We’ve already started stocking up on puppy essentials, and the kids are currently debating whose room our new furry friend will sleep in. While I’ll be focused on crate training, which might lead to some temporary disappointment for them, I’m sure there will be plenty of naptime snuggles and playtime sessions to go around.

Reflecting on a Decade of Dog Ownership: Lessons Learned

It’s hard to believe how quickly time flies. My husband and I often reflect on how, by the time our new puppy reaches May’s current age, our son will be graduating high school and our daughter will be starting high school. Ten years seems like a blink, yet so much has changed since May first joined our family. She went from being our “only baby” to becoming a beloved older sister to two human children. We’ve moved homes twice, experienced job changes, and seen countless family milestones. Beyond our personal lives, the pet industry itself has undergone a significant transformation. When we first got May, options for high-quality dog food and treats were limited, often filled with unnecessary fillers. Today, the market boasts an incredible array of nutritious and wholesome products, a welcome change that benefits our furry companions immensely.

Introducing Milk-Bone Farmer’s Medley: Wholesome Treats for Training Success

Just in time for our new puppy’s arrival, Milk-Bone has introduced their fantastic new line of treats: Milk-Bone Farmer’s Medley. These treats come in two delicious varieties: Whole Grain Recipe and Grain Free Recipe. Our sweet May, ever the connoisseur, sampled both and loved them equally! For our new puppy, we decided to pick up the Grain Free with Turkey & Pumpkin Biscuits and the Whole Grain Recipe with Beef Biscuits. The kids were absolutely amazed watching May perform tricks for these treats. We trained her years ago, and she still remembers every command, responding with enthusiastic tail wags. I was even impressed myself, as May typically reserves her best listening for my husband, but she diligently followed all my commands too! This experience has made me even more eager to begin training our new puppy, Callie, and this time, the kids will be fully involved in the process, which I believe will be a wonderful bonding experience for them all.

What sets Milk-Bone Farmer’s Medley apart is its commitment to quality ingredients. These treats contain absolutely no fillers, corn, artificial preservatives, or artificial flavors. They are crafted with high-quality ingredients you can feel good about giving to your furry family member. You can find the entire Milk-Bone Farmer’s Medley line at Walmart. Plus, keep an eye out for great deals, like the current $2 offer available on ibotta, making these premium treats even more accessible.

Essential Must-Haves for Your New Puppy

As we eagerly prepare for our new puppy, I wanted to share a comprehensive list of must-have items that will set you up for success. These are the foundational tools and accessories every new puppy owner should consider.

1. Crate: A Safe Haven for Training and Comfort

Why it’s essential: Crate training is invaluable for potty training, preventing destructive chewing, and providing your puppy with a safe, den-like space where they can feel secure. It mimics a natural den instinct and can significantly reduce anxiety.
Choosing the right crate: Select a crate that is appropriately sized for your puppy. It should be large enough for them to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not so large that they can use one end as a bathroom. Many crates come with dividers, allowing you to adjust the size as your puppy grows.
Making it comfortable: While a soft blanket or pillow can be tempting, be mindful that many puppies will chew and shred these items, especially when teething. Start with a durable, washable mat or no bedding at all, gradually introducing soft items once you’re confident your puppy won’t destroy them. Position the crate in a quiet, central area of your home where your puppy still feels like part of the family.

2. Collar, Leash, and Identification Tag: Safety First

Collar: A comfortable, lightweight collar is crucial from day one. Choose one made from soft material, like nylon, and ensure it fits snugly enough so your puppy can’t slip out, but loosely enough that you can fit two fingers underneath it. As your puppy grows, you’ll need to adjust the collar size frequently. For certain breeds or training styles, a harness might be a better option, especially for puppies prone to pulling, as it distributes pressure more evenly.
Leash: A standard 4-6 foot leash is ideal for initial training and walks. Opt for a durable, yet lightweight material that’s easy to hold. Avoid retractable leashes for young puppies as they can teach pulling and offer less control.
Identification Tag: Even if you plan to microchip your puppy (which is highly recommended), an immediate identification tag is absolutely critical. It provides quick visual identification with your contact information, dramatically increasing the chances of your puppy being returned quickly if they ever get lost. Include your phone number and your puppy’s name. Consider adding your address or “Needs Meds” if applicable.

3. High-Quality Puppy Food and Food/Water Bowls: Fueling Growth

Puppy Food: Puppies have specific nutritional needs for growth and development. Do your research and choose a high-quality puppy food specifically formulated for their age and breed size. Look for reputable brands with real meat as the first ingredient and avoid excessive fillers. Consult with your veterinarian for recommendations on the best food for your new companion.
Food and Water Bowls: Stainless steel bowls are generally the best choice as they are durable, easy to clean, and resistant to bacteria. Ceramic bowls are also an option, but can chip or break. Avoid plastic bowls, which can harbor bacteria and cause allergic reactions in some dogs. Consider a slow-feeder bowl if your puppy tends to eat too quickly, as this can aid digestion and prevent bloat. Always ensure your puppy has constant access to fresh, clean water in a separate bowl.

4. High-Quality Dog Treats: The Key to Positive Reinforcement

Training Tools: Treats are indispensable for positive reinforcement training. They help your puppy associate good behavior with rewards, making the learning process faster and more enjoyable. High-quality treats, like Milk-Bone Farmer’s Medley, are perfect for this purpose because they are palatable and free from undesirable ingredients.
Choosing Treats: Look for treats that are appropriately sized for your puppy – small, soft treats are often best for training sessions as they can be consumed quickly without distracting the puppy for too long. Always check ingredients to ensure they are healthy and suitable for your puppy’s developing digestive system.
Portion Control: Remember that treats should only make up a small portion of your puppy’s daily caloric intake to prevent overfeeding and maintain a balanced diet.

5. A Variety of Toys: Redirecting Natural Chewing Instincts

The Importance of Toys: Puppies have an innate need to chew, especially during their teething phase. Providing a variety of appropriate toys is crucial for their mental stimulation, dental health, and, most importantly, for saving your shoes and furniture from destruction!
Types of Toys: Stock up on a range of toys, including:
- Chew Toys: Made from durable rubber or nylon, these are essential for satisfying chewing urges. Look for toys that can withstand strong puppy jaws.
- Interactive Toys: Puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys challenge your puppy’s mind and keep them engaged.
- Comfort Toys: Soft plush toys can provide comfort, especially during crate time or bedtime. Just ensure they don’t have small parts that could be chewed off and swallowed.
- Rope Toys: Great for supervised tug-of-war games, which can help with bonding and energy release.
Safety First: Always choose toys that are appropriately sized for your puppy to prevent choking hazards. Regularly inspect toys for wear and tear, and discard any that are broken or frayed. Rotate toys to keep your puppy interested and prevent boredom.

Bonus Must-Haves for a Healthy and Happy Puppy:

Grooming Supplies: A soft puppy brush, gentle puppy shampoo, and nail clippers are essential for maintaining hygiene and getting your puppy accustomed to grooming routines early.
Enzymatic Cleaner: Accidents are inevitable during potty training. An enzymatic cleaner is vital for neutralizing odors and preventing your puppy from returning to the same spot.
Puppy Pads: While outdoor potty training is the goal, puppy pads can be useful for initial training, especially if you live in an apartment or during inclement weather.
Veterinary Visits: Schedule your puppy’s first vet visit soon after bringing them home to ensure they are healthy, get necessary vaccinations, and discuss preventative care like flea, tick, and heartworm medication.
Puppy-Proofing Supplies: Baby gates, cord protectors, and secure cabinet locks will help you puppy-proof your home, ensuring a safe environment for your curious new family member.

Are you planning to get a new puppy soon? The anticipation is truly wonderful! Our family is incredibly excited about welcoming our new puppy, Callie, into our lives. We’ve laid the groundwork, gathered our essentials, and are ready for all the joy, laughter, and learning that comes with a new furry family member. She will be fitting right in, and we can’t wait to share our journey with you!