First-Time Dog Owner Checklist: 14 Things Every Pet Parent Needs

Bringing a dog home is exciting, slightly chaotic, and full of “do I actually need this?” moments. Pet shops and TikTok will try to sell you everything,  but the truth is, your dog only needs a few core essentials to live a happy, healthy life.

This checklist covers 14 must-have items every first-time dog owner in the UK should have to make life easier for both of you.

1. A comfortable dog bed

Your dog needs a space that’s theirs.
Choose something washable, supportive and appropriate for their size.

Pro tip: many dogs like a second bed in the living room so they can stay near you.

2. Food and water bowls

Stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easiest to clean and most hygienic.
Avoid flimsy plastic bowls if possible.

3. High-quality dog food

Start with whatever food your dog is already used to, then transition slowly if needed. Sudden changes can upset digestion.

Consistency matters more than chasing trends.

4. A lead and collar (or harness)

You’ll need:

collar with ID tag

• lead

• harness (for many breeds)

Make sure it fits well and isn’t too tight.

5. ID tag and microchip details

Legally in the UK, your dog must wear an ID tag with your contact details and be microchipped.

Do this immediately.

6. Poo bags (lots of them)

You will never have enough.
Put them in every coat pocket and bag you own.

7. A crate or safe sleeping area

Crates aren’t for everyone, but they can help with:

• toilet training

• creating a safe space

• preventing overnight chaos

Used correctly, they feel like a den, not a punishment.

8. Toys for chewing and enrichment

Dogs need to chew.
Without toys, they’ll choose your furniture.

Have a mix of:

• chew toys

• enrichment toys

• comfort toys

Rotate them so they stay interesting.

9. Treats for training

Training happens constantly, not just in classes.

Choose simple, healthy treats you can use daily without overfeeding.

10. Grooming basics

Even short-haired dogs need grooming.

Start with:

• brush

• nail clippers

• dog shampoo (non-toxic)

• towel

Routine grooming keeps skin and coat healthy.

11. A car safety plan

If you drive, your dog needs a safe way to travel:

• seat belt harness

• crate

• boot guard

Never let your dog roam freely in the car.

12. Cleaning supplies

Accidents happen especially at the start.

Have ready:

• dog safe enzyme cleaner (for the pee pee accidents)

• spare towels

• wipes

You’ll thank yourself later.

13. A routine

Not a physical item, but one of the most important things.

Dogs thrive on consistency:

• feeding times

• walk times

• bedtime

• training

A predictable routine builds confidence and calm behaviour.

14. Daily nutrition support

Many first-time owners focus only on food, but long-term health comes from daily nutritional support.

Modern dog owners are increasingly adding a simple daily supplement to support:

• gut health

• joints

• skin and coat

• overall wellbeing

That’s exactly why we created a Dog Person, a straightforward, no-nonsense approach to dog wellness for real dog owners.

If you want to support your dog’s health from day one, you can explore our daily nutrition with the All Rounder

What you don’t need immediately

New dog owners often overspend. You can skip:

• excessive outfits

• dozens of toys

• complicated feeding routines

• multiple supplements

• fancy gadgets

Start simple. Add things as you learn what your dog actually needs.

To wrap up

The best thing you can give your dog isn’t a mountain of products, it’s:

• consistency

• patience

• good nutrition

• daily care

• time together

Start with the basics, build your routine, and you’ll figure out the rest as you go.