10 Essential Items for New Dog Owners – The Ultimate Checklist for a New Dog

Welcoming a new dog into your home is a thrilling experience, filled with love, companionship, and excitement.

But with all that joy comes responsibility; being a dog owner means ensuring that your furry friend has everything they need to be safe, healthy, and happy.

If you’re a first-time dog owner or just want to make sure you have all the essentials, here’s our carefully curated list of must-have items to get you and your dog off to a fantastic start - the Cheeky Chops Way! 

The 10 Essentials You'll Need Below;

1. Comfortable Dog Bed

   • Why It’s Essential: Dogs need a cozy place to rest and call their own. A quality dog bed can make all the difference in providing comfort and security.
   • Benefits: Supports joint health, offers a designated resting area, and helps keep them off furniture.
   • Shop Here: www.cheekychopsretail.co.uk/products/dog-bed-heritage-green-check
     
     

2. Sturdy Leash and Collar

   • Why It’s Essential: A leash and collar are fundamental for safe walks and training. Look for durable materials and secure clasps for peace of mind.
   • Benefits: Keeps your dog safe on walks, aids in training, and gives you better control.
   • Shop Here: www.cheekychopsretail.co.uk/collections/dog-walking-accessories
     
     

3. Durable Dog Toys

   • Why It’s Essential: Dogs need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy. A variety of toys can help keep them engaged and prevent boredom.
   • Benefits: Reduces destructive behaviour, strengthens bond during play, and encourages exercise.
   • Shop Here: www.cheekychopsretail.co.uk/collections/toys
     
     

4. Dog Bowls (Food and Water)

   • Why It’s Essential: Separate bowls for food and water are a must-have, especially ones made from easy-to-clean, dog-safe materials.
   • Benefits: Keeps feeding organised, easy to clean, and promotes better eating habits.
   • Shop Here: https://cheekychopsretail.co.uk/collections/shop-dogs
     
     

5. Quality Dog Treats

   • Why It’s Essential: Treats are invaluable for training, bonding, and reinforcing positive behaviour. Choose healthy, high-quality dog treats that align with your pet's dietary needs.
   • Benefits: Reinforces good behaviour, builds trust, and can even support dental health and joint care.
   • Shop Here: www.cheekychopsretail.co.uk/collections/dog-treats 
     
     

6. Grooming Kit

   • Why It’s Essential: Regular grooming is essential for maintaining a clean, healthy coat and preventing skin issues.
   • Benefits: Reduces shedding, strengthens the bond through grooming sessions, and keeps your dog looking their best.
   • Shop Here: www.cheekychopsretail.co.uk/products/dog-brush-double-bamboo
     
     

7. Puppy Wipes and Supplies

   • Why It’s Essential: For puppies or dogs new to the household, accidents can happen. Puppy wipes and pet-safe cleaning products can make cleanup easy.
   • Benefits: Helps with housetraining, keeps your home clean, and provides convenience for busy owners.
   • Shop Here: www.cheekychopsretail.co.uk/products/grooming-wipes
     
     

8. Poop Bags and Dispenser

   • Why It’s Essential: Cleaning up after your dog is part of responsible pet ownership, and having a handy dispenser makes it easy.
   • Benefits: Keeps outdoor areas clean, respects the environment, and ensures you’re always prepared.
   • Shop Here: www.cheekychopsretail.co.uk/products/torch-poo-bags
     
     

9. Dog-Safe Gardens

   • Why It’s Essential: Dogs often interact with plants in the garden, and having safe plants ensures they won’t ingest anything harmful.
   • Benefits: Provides a safe, beautiful outdoor space for your dog, can offer shade, and encourages play in the yard.
   • Recommendations: Trees for shade, some paved paths, high fences and lawn for your fluffs to play on. Herb gardens including Lavender, Mint, Lemon Balm, Rosemary, Chamomile and Thyme are all safe for dogs and can be supplied and created by our friends at Moongate Plant Centre - along with Dog-Friendly Plants such as Asters, Camellias, Roses, Sunflowers, Centurea, Magnolia, Acers, Myrtle and Viburnum. 
   • Shop Here: www.facebook.com/moongateplants
     
     

10. PLUS - Don't forget to treat yourself!

    • Why It’s Essential: Having a new dog can be a very full on experience, putting all your time into your new friend, you'll need to remind yourself to treat yourself too!
    • Benefits: Enjoy the love having a dog brings you and those around you. You'll start to notice your energy levels raise, you'll enjoy more outdoor walks, and start decorating your home to include your new arrival. 
    • Shop Here: https://cheekychopsretail.co.uk/collections/shop-hooman-gifts

Ready to start your dog’s journey off right?

Visit www.cheekychopsretail.co.uk/collections/shop-dogs to find everything on this list and more!
Our curated selection has everything a new dog owner needs for a smooth transition and a happy pup. From treats to grooming, toys to training aids, we’re here to help you every step of the way.