The Essential Puppy Supplies List

Half the fun of getting a new puppy is going on a "puppy welcome wagon" shopping spree. So get out the checkbook, and check out our list of must-have puppy supplies!

Crate: Choose between wire, which fold flat and have better ventilation; cloth, which are lightweight but can be shredded by dogs that want to get out; and plastic, which are cozy and are approved for airline shipping.

Bed: It doesn't have to be fancy, just soft.

Baby gates: Baby gates allow your dog more freedom while still blocking off restricted areas. Exercise pen: An exercise pen (X-pen) is a 4-foot by 4-foot pen that you can set up as an optional indoor playpen. You can also take the X-pen on trips so you have a portable yard. Cleaning supplies: For rug accidents, use an enzymatic carpet cleaner, which destroys the odor causing molecules. Anti-chew spray: These sprays taste so bitter most puppies won't chew anything they're on. Potty Training pads: Scented pads that entice a puppy to urinate on them rather than your rug. Optional. Indoor potty system: An option for apartment dogs.

Food: Start with what they're eating at the breeder's. You can gradually switch them later. Bowls: Stainless bowls are best because they are durable and easy to clean.

Collar: For now, get a nylon buckle collar with room for adjustment. The collar should be loose enough for you to get a couple of fingers between it and your puppy's neck, but not so loose that it could slide off his head when walking on leash. Don't leave any collar on a puppy unattended because pups have a talent for getting their lower jaw stuck in it. Leash: Start with a sturdy lightweight leash, four to six feet long, of leather or nylon -- never chain links! Retractable leash: Only for use away from roads, other people and dogs.

Harness: If your puppy has a habit to slipping out of a collar, consider a harness as an option. Identification: Get both tags and a microchip. Poop bags: Cheap sandwich bags or stylish doggy poop disposal bags both work.

Sweater or Coat: Little puppies don't have much fat or fur or fat, and may need some extra warmth in cold weather. Optional.

Fence: The fence should keep your dog in and other dogs out. Kennel: A covered kennel run is another option, but only if it's next to the house and has shelter from the elements. Pooper scooper: Two-part scoops are easier to use than hinged versions. Scoops with a rake on one side are better for grass, and the flat-edge pusher varieties are better for cement surfaces.

Brush: A soft-bristle brush is ideal for getting your puppy used to grooming. Rinseless Shampoo: A quick fix for dirty puppies! Optional. Toothbrush: For now, you just need a soft baby toothbrush and some doggy toothpaste. Toenail clippers: Scissors-type cutters and guillotine cutters are equally good.

Throw toys: Balls and other toys, such as tug toys, that encourage playing with people are especially good for social development.

Interactive toys: Toys that challenge your puppy to dislodge food treats can occupy them while you're away.

Plush toys: Soft-mouthed puppies love soft fuzzy toys. Make sure no parts can come off, and that your puppy can't gut it and swallow any bean stuffing or noisemakers.