Your puppy shopping list.

Preparing for your new puppy is an exciting part of the journey! I put together a shopping list to help guide our new puppy families as they get ready for their little one’s arrival. Having a designated safe space set up with an X-pen gives your puppy a place to play, rest, and a designated potty spot while helping prevent them from chewing on something important or getting into something that could cause them harm. Young puppies are naturally curious, and playtime outside of their X-pen should always be supervised, especially during those early months when they may try to eat just about anything they can find.

Inside the X-pen, we recommend a cozy bed placed inside the crate to create a comfortable retreat. Mealtimes can also be served inside the crate, helping your puppy build a positive association with their crate and learn that it is a safe, happy place to relax.

Fresh water should be available at all times. We like using water buckets that clip securely to the inside of both the crate and X-pen, keeping water accessible while helping prevent spills.

A litter tray provides a designated potty area that is separate from your puppy’s bedding and living space. We use pine pellets because they have a natural, earthy scent that helps make the transition from an indoor potty area to outdoor potty training feel more natural. This setup can make those early stages of potty training much smoother while giving your puppy a clear and consistent place to go. My hope is that this helps make bringing your puppy home as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

~Kiana, Shamayim Acres Mini American Shepherds