Puppy Prep

Toys might not seem like new-puppy essentials at first glance, but they absolutely are. Puppies learn about the world through play, and the right toys help guide that learning in a positive way.

Not only do toys provide valuable mental stimulation, but they can also be used as part of your training routine — helping with focus, redirection, and building confidence.

Invest in a good variety: chew toys, soft comfort toys, treat-dispensing toys, and interactive toys to keep your puppy entertained, engaged, and happily learning.

Just about every puppy training guide agrees on one thing: routine matters.

Even if you don't normally follow a strict schedule, create one for the first few months. Consistent feeding times, potty breaks, play sessions, and rest periods help your pup settle in and feel secure.

Dogs thrive when they have structure — knowing what to expect each day helps them relax, learn faster, and build healthy habits.

Even if crate training doesn't feel urgent right now, it's still an important part of your new puppy's foundation.

You may not plan to use a crate regularly at home, but emergencies happen — and if your dog ever needs to stay overnight at the vet, they will be crated. A puppy who has never been introduced to a crate can become stressed in that situation.

Make crate training a priority. With patience and consistency, don't give in to whining — your puppy will learn to see the crate as a safe, comfortable space.

Housebreaking is often the part new puppy owners find the most challenging.

Here's the good news — we at BFF Aussies have already started the process for you. If you follow our recommended routine, most puppies can finish housebreaking in just a few days, as long as you stay consistent.

If you don't yet have a housebreaking plan, don't worry — we're here to help guide you every step of the way.

One of the most important new-puppy essentials you'll need is a high-quality puppy food.

Research brands and choose the best food you can reasonably afford. Look for real meat (not "meat meal") at the top of the ingredient list, and avoid unnecessary fillers or artificial additives.

At BFF Aussies, we provide a starter bag of the food your puppy has been eating. If you switch brands, transition slowly over several days to avoid digestive upset.

Every puppy training guide emphasizes one core principle: consistency — including household rules.

Think ahead: Will your puppy be allowed on furniture when full-grown? In the kitchen? Will they sleep on your bed or have their own space?

Decide your boundaries early and stick to them. When the rules don't change, your puppy will learn faster and feel more secure.

Biting, jumping, excessive barking, and begging are common new-puppy challenges.

Many owners let these behaviors slide when a puppy is small, or even encourage them because they look cute in the moment.

It's always easier to teach the right behavior from the beginning than to correct a bad habit later. Redirect and guide toward the behavior you do want.

Many puppies miss out on proper socialization during this critical stage — but socialization can still happen safely before a puppy is fully vaccinated.

Use controlled, low-risk experiences that build confidence without compromising health.

Until your puppy has completed their full vaccine series, avoid letting them touch dirt, grass, or areas where unknown dogs frequently go. Plan thoughtful introductions to new sights, sounds, surfaces, and people.

Take your puppy on car rides or safe walks that introduce new sights, sounds, smells, and experiences.

Consider puppy preschool, then beginner, intermediate, advanced obedience, off-leash work, nose work, agility, or CGC (Canine Good Citizen).

Try a puppy scavenger hunt and check off new experiences each day — keep every exposure positive and reward generously.

If your puppy isn't fully vaccinated yet, use a dog stroller or a clean blanket in a shopping cart so paws don't touch high-risk ground.

There are many new-puppy essentials to keep in mind — and if you work long hours, it can feel overwhelming.

If possible, take a week or two off when your puppy arrives. This extra time allows you to bond, establish routines, introduce house rules, and begin training without rushing.

Soak up puppy training knowledge before your puppy comes home. At BFF Aussies, we're here as lifelong support for you and your puppy.

Schedule your puppy's first veterinary appointment within a few days of bringing your puppy home.

This visit confirms overall health, reviews vaccines, checks for early illness, discusses parasite prevention, and covers nutrition and growth.

Bring health records, any medications or supplements, a list of questions, and treats to make the visit positive.