Bringing home a new puppy is one of life’s great joys — and a lot of responsibility. This checklist walks Canadian dog owners through everything to sort out before and after your puppy arrives, from supplies to the first vet visit to the local services worth lining up early.
Before your puppy comes home
Get the essentials ready so the first days are calm, not chaotic:
- Food and water bowls — sturdy, easy to clean
- Age-appropriate puppy food — ideally the same brand the breeder or shelter was using, to avoid stomach upset
- Collar, harness, and leash — plus an ID tag with your phone number
- Crate and a comfortable bed — the right size for crate training
- Puppy pads and cleaning supplies — accidents happen
- Safe chew toys — for teething and enrichment
- Grooming basics — brush, dog-safe shampoo, nail clippers
- Baby gates — to puppy-proof stairs and off-limits rooms
Winter arrivals: a warm coat and paw protection matter in much of Canada, and pet-safe ice melt is worth having by the door.
The first week
- Establish a routine for feeding, potty breaks, play, and sleep — puppies thrive on predictability.
- Start house training immediately: take your puppy out after every meal, nap, and play session, and reward success.
- Introduce the crate gradually as a safe, positive space.
- Keep early experiences gentle — new sights, sounds, and people in small, positive doses.
Health: your puppy’s first vet visit
Book a check-up within the first few days. Your veterinarian will confirm your puppy is healthy and set up a schedule for:
- Core vaccinations (typically starting around 6–8 weeks and boosted over the following months)
- Deworming and parasite prevention
- Microchipping — the most reliable way to be reunited if your dog is ever lost
- Spay/neuter timing — your vet will advise based on breed and size
Don’t have a vet yet? Find a veterinarian near you in our directory, and read our guide on what to do in a pet emergency so you’re ready before you ever need it.
Licensing and the law
Most Canadian municipalities require you to license your dog, usually once it reaches a certain age. Check your city or town’s website for how to register and renew — a licence also helps get your dog home quickly if it’s ever picked up by animal services.
Feeding and nutrition
Feed a complete puppy formula appropriate for your dog’s expected adult size, and follow the portions on the label as a starting point. Introduce any diet changes slowly over a week to avoid upset stomachs, and keep fresh water available at all times. When in doubt, ask your vet.
Training and socialization
The first few months are a critical window. Focus on gentle socialization — meeting friendly people and vaccinated dogs, and experiencing everyday sights and sounds — plus the basics like name recognition, “sit,” and coming when called. Positive, reward-based methods work best. A good puppy class builds confidence fast; find a dog trainer near you to get started.
Grooming and care
Get your puppy used to being handled early — paws, ears, and mouth — so grooming and vet visits are stress-free later. Brush regularly, keep nails trimmed, and start a professional grooming routine if your breed needs it. Find a groomer near you when the time comes.
Plan for the cost of care
Puppies come with vet bills, and unexpected emergencies can be expensive. Many Canadian owners set up pet insurance or a dedicated savings buffer early, so cost never gets in the way of good care.
Line up your local support team
You don’t have to do it alone. Once your puppy is settled, it helps to know your local dog walkers, daycares, boarding facilities, and pet stores before you need them. Search Canada Dog Care to find trusted, local dog services across the country.
Welcome to dog ownership — and welcome to the community. Explore more dog care guides to help every stage of life with your new best friend.
