The Ultimate Puppy Essentials: Everything You Need for Your New Golden Retriever
Bringing home a new Golden Retriever puppy is an exciting experience, but it also requires preparation to ensure your home is ready and your puppy has everything they need to thrive. From must-have training tools to cozy beds and essential grooming supplies, this guide will walk you through the ultimate puppy essentials.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links at no extra cost to you.
1. Crate & Bedding: Creating a Safe Space
A high-quality crate is one of the most important investments for your puppy. Not only does crate training help with potty training, but it also gives your puppy a safe space to rest.
Make sure to choose a crate size that will fit your puppy as they grow. Many wire crates come with dividers, allowing you to adjust the space as needed.
2. Food & Water Bowls: Choosing the Right Set
Not all food and water bowls are created equal! Stainless steel bowls are the best option because they are durable, easy to clean, but I will say also, though, if you are getting a golden retriever, I highly highly recommend getting a slow bowl. If yours are any thing like mine, their eyes tend to be bigger than their stomach, so having a bowl that causes them to slow down will be a wonderful asset!
✔️ Slow Bowl
For puppies that eat too quickly, consider a slow-feeder bowl to promote healthier digestion.
3. High-Quality Puppy Food & Supplements
A well-balanced diet is essential for your puppy’s growth and development. Be sure to choose a high-quality, breeder-recommended puppy food that supports proper bone and joint development.
✔️ Probiotic Supplement for Gut Health
✔️ Salmon Oil for a Healthy Coat
Always transition your puppy slowly to any new food to avoid digestive upset.
4. Collar, Leash & ID Tags
Your puppy will need a well-fitting collar and leash for training and daily walks. Adjustable collars with a quick-release buckle are great for growing puppies.
✔️ Adjustable Puppy Collar & Harness
For leash training, a hands-free leash or training lead can make a huge difference in guiding your puppy properly.
5. Puppy Training Must-Haves
Training starts the moment your puppy comes home! Having the right tools on hand will make house training and obedience training much smoother.
✔️ Treat Pouch for Training on the Go
✔️ Clicker for Positive Reinforcement
A structured training plan, consistency, and patience are key to raising a well-mannered Golden Retriever!
6. Toys & Enrichment for a Happy Puppy
Puppies love to chew and explore! Providing a variety of chew toys and interactive play options will keep your puppy entertained and help prevent destructive chewing.
Golden Retrievers are smart, energetic dogs that need both mental and physical stimulation. Rotate toys to keep playtime interesting and encourage healthy chewing habits.
7. Grooming Essentials for Your Golden Retriever
Golden Retrievers have a thick double coat that requires regular maintenance. Starting a grooming routine early will help keep their coat healthy and minimize shedding.
✔️ De-matting Comb for Tangles
✔️ Dog-Safe Shampoo & Conditioner
✔️ Ear Cleaner to Prevent Infections
Regular brushing helps reduce shedding and prevents painful mats from forming. Since Goldens love water, it’s also important to keep their ears clean and dry to avoid infections.
8. Health & Wellness Essentials
Keeping your puppy healthy starts with proactive care. Having a few key health products on hand will help you manage common puppy needs.
✔️ Dog Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Ask your vet about the best flea, tick, and heartworm prevention for your area. Early dental care is also important to prevent future health issues.
9. Cleaning Supplies & Accident Prevention
Potty training takes time, and accidents will happen. Stock up on cleaning supplies to keep your home fresh and your puppy’s space clean.
✔️ Enzyme Cleaner for Accidents
✔️ Puppy Pee Pads (for training or travel)
Using an enzyme-based cleaner helps eliminate odors so your puppy won’t be tempted to go in the same spot again.
10. Travel & Safety Essentials
If you plan to take your puppy on road trips or outings, having the right travel gear will make adventures safer and more enjoyable.
✔️ Collapsible Travel Water Bowl
✔️ Portable Crate or Car Carrier
A secured puppy is a safe puppy! Whether it’s a short drive to the vet or a longer trip, investing in travel safety gear is a must.
Final Thoughts
Bringing home a Golden Retriever puppy is an exciting journey, and having the right supplies will set you up for success. From crate training and grooming essentials to interactive toys and travel gear, these must-haves will help you create a safe and happy environment for your new furry friend.
Do you have any favorite puppy essentials? Let me know in the comments!
