Puppy checklist

Choose a small to medium sized bed lined with warm fleece to keep your pup warm while they doze. Check for beds that have removable and washable covers.

As your puppy starts to explore, these are useful for keeping them confined to a safe space, and out of rooms you don’t want them in.

Stainless steel bowls are more durable than plastic and easier to keep clean. You can also get smart bowls that track eating habits and have motion-sensor covers to keep the food fresher.

Puppy pads can help spare your carpet from accidents and are especially useful if it's tricky for your dog to go outdoors e.g. because you live in a flat.

It’s good to get your puppy used to a grooming routine as soon as they are home. Shampoo, brushes for the coat length of your dog’s breed and nail clippers are the essentials.

Keep your furniture and floor free of pet hair. Vacuum cleaners with pet tools can trap those stubborn hair and allergens to help you keep your house clean.

Replicate a warm den with a soft bed or mat. If possible leave a blanket with them a few days before you take them home - it will help them settle if they have something familiar with them.

Some dogs experience travel sickness and travel better on an empty stomach. Feed your puppy at least two hours before your journey and let them go to the toilet before you leave.

You can bring your crate into your home and put their dog bed in it to create a sleep space for your puppy – many are comforted by a sense of security from a cosy crate or pen.

Ask the breeder what they have been feeding your pup – ideally you’d stick to the same diet. Food designed especially for puppies has all the nutrients they need for growth and development.

It’s important that your puppy has lots of interesting things to play with for their development and to strengthen their jaw - plus it will save them chewing on things they shouldn’t!

Help your dog get more active, build confidence, stay relaxed and happier with fun and adventurous enrichment and puzzle toys.

Worried about leaving them alone at home? Indoor cameras are the best way to keep checking (even chatting with) your pooch while you're away.

Only when your puppy is fully vaccinated (around 14 weeks) can they safely go outdoors for walks. You can introduce the collar and lead around the home before this so they get used to the feeling.

Measure your puppy's neck and compare to the collar sizes. You should be able to comfortably fit two fingers under the collar when it's fastened. Keep checking the size as they grow.

Standard leads, instead of retractable, are better while your puppy gets used to walking by your side. Nylon leads are lightweight and durable, making them a popular choice for puppies.

Whether you want to protect them from the cold weather or generally dress them up, dog coats are just the thing you need.

On a long road trip? We've got everything from travel kits to keep them full and entertained to covers that keep your car protected from muddy paws and pet hair

When the days are nice and you want a breath of fresh air with your pup, why not make it more than just a walk? With ball launchers, frisbees and more, make outdoor time more adventurous.

Trainings pads, dog poop bags, and more. Keep handy all the essentials you need to clean up after them, whether at home or on-the-go.

Dog kennels help you give them a den of their own to sit and spend alone time, give time away from kids or just keep them safe.

Pawsome guides on keeping pets happy.

When your dog is ill or injured we know your whole family suffers too. That's why at Argos Dog Insurance, we do everything we can to get your dog back to happy.

Old dogs, active dogs or dogs that need a little extra help. Lintbells Yumove supplements are suitable from 8 weeks old - improving coats, supporting joint structure and reducing stiffness.