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 must-have puppy supply list!

Puppy Supply List: Bedtime

- Crate: Choose between wire, which fold flat and have better ventilation; plastic, which are cozy and are approved for airline shipping; and cloth, which are lightweight but can be shredded by dogs that want to get out. - Bed: It doesn't have to be fancy, just soft.

Puppy Supply List: Mealtime

- 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 easy to clean and durable.

Puppy Supply List: House Time

- 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. - Anti-chew spray: These sprays taste so bitter most puppies won't chew anything they're on - Cleaning supplies: For rug accidents, use an enzymatic carpet cleaner, which destroys the odor causing molecules. - 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.

Pupy Supply List: Yard Time

- 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.

Puppy Supply List: Walk Time

- 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. - Poop bags: Cheap sandwich bags or stylish doggy poop disposal bags both work. - Identification: Get both tags and a microchip. - Coat or Sweater: Little puppies don't have much fur or fat, and may need some extra warmth in cold weather. Optional.

Puppy Supply List: Grooming Time

- 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: The guillotine and scissors-type cutters are equally good.

Puppy Supply List: Fun Time

- 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 noisemakers or bean stuffing.

- 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.

Puppy Supply List: Love Time

- You: A person who will stop what they're doing and pay attention to the new puppy!