Puppy check list 

 

Bringing home a new puppy goes much smoother when you already have the essentials set up. For a small breed puppy like a Yorkshire Terrier, you’ll want items sized appropriately for tiny mouths, small stomachs, and delicate joints.

​

Food & Feeding

High-quality puppy food formulated for small breeds. We recommend Royal Canin Small Breed Puppy Food.

Food and water bowls (stainless steel is easiest to clean).

Healthy puppy treats for training

Puppy-safe chew items

Safe Space & Sleeping

Crate - sized for a small puppy

Soft washable bed

Playpen or baby gates

Lightweight blanket

Snuggle toy or heartbeat toy (helps with first-night anxiety)

Potty Training Supplies

Puppy pads

Enzymatic cleaner for accidents

Poop bags

Bell for door training (optional)

​

Walking & Identification

 

ID tag with phone number

Harness (often safer than collars for toy breeds)

Lightweight leash

Car seat or travel carrier

​

Grooming Supplies

​

For long-haired breeds like Yorkies:

Soft slicker brush

Metal comb

Puppy shampoo - We use Chi Puppy Shampoo

Nail clippers or grinder

Ear cleaner

Toothbrush and dog toothpaste

​

Toys & Mental Stimulation

​

Soft plush toys

Small chew toys

Puzzle toys

Teething toys for sore gums

Tiny tennis balls or lightweight fetch toys

​

Health & Safety

​

Vet appointment scheduled within the first few days

Vaccination records from breeder/shelter - check your paperwork from us

Flea/tick prevention (vet-approved)

Emergency vet phone number saved

​

Helpful Extras

​

Stairs or ramp for furniture (important for tiny breeds)

Lint rollers

Storage bin for supplies

Grooming wipes

Portable water bottle for outings

​

Puppy-Proofing Your Home

​

Before the puppy arrives:

Hide electrical cords

Remove toxic plants

Pick up small objects they could swallow

Block unsafe areas

Keep shoes and medications out of reach

​

First Week Tips

​

Keep routines consistent

Limit overwhelming visitors

Take puppy outside frequently

Start name recognition and gentle training immediately

Focus on bonding and confidence-building

For toy breeds especially, it’s also smart to keep:

A small blanket for warmth

A few high-calorie emergency snacks in case blood sugar drops

A safe enclosed area where larger pets or children can’t accidentally injure them

​