Your essential checklist for welcoming a new dog

Bringing a dog into your life is an exciting time — but it’s important to be well-prepared. Whether you’re adopting a rescue or bringing home a new puppy, having the right supplies on hand can help your dog feel safe, comfortable and settled from day one.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through the essential items every new dog owner should have, along with tips on food, bedding, toys and more. We’ll also highlight the benefits of feeding real, raw meals from Poppy’s Picnic to help your dog start off on the right paw.

Your New Dog Essentials Checklist

1. Food and bowls

• Choose high-quality, complete food like Poppy’s Picnic Power Balls

• Get two bowls — one for food and one for water

• Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easy to clean and long-lasting

2. Bedding and crate

• Provide a cosy bed in a quiet, draught-free spot

• Crates help with training and create a safe space (especially for puppies)

• Use soft blankets and make the area inviting

3. Collar, lead and ID tag

• A well-fitting collar and sturdy lead are must-haves for walks

• UK law requires dogs to wear an ID tag with your name and address

• Microchipping is also a legal requirement

4. Toys and enrichment

• Chew toys, squeaky toys and puzzle feeders keep dogs entertained

• Mental stimulation reduces boredom and helps prevent unwanted behaviours

• Rotate toys to keep things interesting

5. Grooming supplies

• Brush or comb suited to your dog’s coat type

• Dog-safe shampoo

• Nail clippers or a grinder (optional for home grooming)

6. Cleaning and toileting

• Poo bags for walks and garden clean-ups

• Puppy pads if you’re housetraining

• Enzymatic cleaner for accidents

7. Travel gear

• Car harness, travel crate or seat belt restraint for safe journeys

• A portable water bowl for walks and trips

• A towel or blanket to protect car seats

8. Health and care

• Flea, tick and worming treatments (ask your vet for guidance)

• Basic first aid kit for cuts or scrapes

• A contact card for your vet and local out-of-hours clinic

Expert quote

“Preparation makes a big difference. Dogs settle quicker and feel more secure when their new home is ready for them — and so do their owners.”

– Clare Morton, Dog Welfare Advisor

Choosing the Right Food

Food is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. A fresh, natural diet helps your dog adapt more easily to their new environment. Poppy’s Picnic offers raw meals made with real meat, offal and vegetables — perfect for dogs of all ages and life stages.

Great starter options:

• RAW Power Balls – Chicken – Easy to portion, no mess

• Mighty Mince Complete – Beef – Balanced and hearty

• Variety Boxes – Ideal for trying different proteins

Final Tips Before Bringing Your Dog Home

• Dog-proof your house (remove wires, secure bins, check fences)

• Arrange time off or work from home to help your dog settle

• Choose a calm day for pick-up — avoid big events or loud visitors

• Be patient and consistent — it takes time to adjust

With the right supplies, a loving attitude and a focus on quality food and care, you’ll be giving your new dog the very best start.

Visit Poppy’s Picnic for real food your dog will love — no stress, no fillers, just honest meals made for wagging tails.