Puppy Essentials

Everything You Need Before Your Puppy Comes Home

Preparation is a gift to your puppy and yourself. Here’s what we recommend from years of raising doodles and supporting new owners.

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Feeding & Nutrition
We send you home with food - your puppy's transition bag is included. Transition to new food over 7-10 days.
Choose small breed formula for minis; large breed puppy formula for mediums and standards.
Stainless steel bowls - durable, hygienic, and safe for all coat types.
Always provide fresh, clean water. A pet fountain encourages good hydration.
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Crate & Sleep
Choose the right size crate - big enough to stand, turn, and lie down. Use a divider panel while they're small.
A soft, washable crate liner provides comfort without complicating housetraining.
Crate training done correctly = a calmer, more confident adult dog and faster housebreaking.
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Collars, Leashes & ID
Flat collar + ID tag with name and phone number - ready before pickup day.
A 4-6 foot leash for walking. Avoid retractable leashes during puppyhood.
Harness - distributes pressure evenly and reduces neck strain during leash training.
Consider a GPS tracking tag for extra peace of mind in the first weeks home.
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Grooming Tools
High-quality slicker brush - your most important daily tool. Non-negotiable.
Metal comb for working through tangles and checking for mats close to the skin.
Dog-specific shampoo and conditioner for bath time.
Schedule professional grooming every 6-8 weeks. Introduce your puppy by 12-16 weeks of age.
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Health & Safety
Vet appointment within a few days of pickup. We provide full vaccination records.
Puppy-proof your home - secure cords, remove toxic plants, gate off restricted areas.
Pet insurance - explore options before your puppy arrives. Covers illness, accidents, and hereditary conditions.
Basic pet first aid kit - gauze, antiseptic, saline, tweezers, thermometer.
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Enrichment & Training
Puzzle toys and interactive feeders - essential for smart doodle breeds.
Clicker + treat pouch for reward-based marker training.
Puppy kindergarten class - the socialization window of 8-16 weeks is critical. Invest in it.
Great reads: The Art of Raising a Puppy (Monks of New Skete) and Perfect Puppy in 7 Days (Sophia Yin).

Have questions about preparing for your new puppy? We're always happy to help.

Ask Us Anything
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We've partnered with Baxter & Bella — one of the most comprehensive online puppy schools available — because we care about what happens after pickup day just as much as before it. Their membership gives you lifetime access to expert training resources, so you and your pup can build the relationship you've always wanted, at your own pace, from the comfort of home.

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Endless resources — training videos, guides, and expert support covering every stage of puppyhood and beyond.
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You've Done the Research. Now Go Get Your Dog.

The crate is picked out. The groomer is bookmarked. The bowls are in your cart. All that’s missing is the puppy. If you’re ready to take the next step — or even just ready to ask your first question — we’d love to hear from you.

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Unique Canines raises Bernedoodle and Aussiedoodle puppies in Goshen, Indiana with a family-focused approach.

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