Short answer: before your new dog comes home, set up a safe space, buy the basics (bed, bowls, food, collar with ID tag, lead and harness, poop bags, toys), book a vet check, and make sure your dog is microchipped and registered with your state. Then focus the first few weeks on routine, gentle training and getting to know each other.
Here's the full step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Before You Bring Your Dog Home
Choose the right dog for your life
Think about your home, your schedule and your energy levels. A high-energy working breed in a small apartment with no time for long walks is a recipe for a bored, frustrated dog. Ask the breeder or rescue about temperament, exercise needs and grooming.
Check your rental or strata rules
If you rent or live in a strata building, check the pet rules and get any approval you need in writing.
Dog-proof your home
- Move cables, shoes, medicines and cleaning products out of reach
- Check fences and gates for gaps your dog could squeeze through
- Know which foods are toxic to dogs, including chocolate, grapes, onions and xylitol (read why chocolate is so bad for dogs)
- Set up a quiet spot with a bed or crate where your dog can rest
Step 2: Your New Dog Shopping List
- Bed or crate, sized so your dog can stretch out and turn around
- Food and water bowls
- Food: start with whatever your dog is already eating, then change slowly if needed
- Collar and ID tag with your phone number. A waterproof collar is easy to keep clean.
- Harness and lead for walks. A harness is gentler on puppies and small dogs; see our No-Pull Harness and our guide on how to measure your dog for a harness.
- Poop bags and a carrier clipped to the lead, like our Poop Bag Carrier
- Toys: a mix of chew toys, tug toys and puzzle or enrichment toys. Our Play Pack and Enrichment Lick Mat are great for settling in.
- Grooming basics: brush, dog shampoo and nail clippers
- Treats for training
Want it all sorted in one go? Our Harness Walk & Play Set combines the walk essentials with toys.
Step 3: Microchipping and Registration
In Australia, microchipping and registration are required by law, and the rules vary by state. In NSW, for example:
- Dogs must be microchipped by 12 weeks of age, or before they're sold or given away, whichever comes first
- Dogs must be registered on the NSW Pet Registry by 6 months of age
- Update your contact details on the registry whenever you move or change your phone number
If you live in another state, check your state government or local council website for the rules that apply to you.
Step 4: Your First Vet Visit
Book a vet check within the first week or so. Your vet can:
- Give your dog a general health check
- Set up a vaccination schedule
- Advise on flea, tick and worm prevention, including paralysis tick protection if you live on the east coast
- Talk you through desexing and the right timing for your dog
- Discuss pet insurance if you're considering it
Puppies shouldn't walk in public places or meet unknown dogs until their vaccinations are complete, so ask your vet when it's safe to start.
Step 5: The First Few Weeks
- Keep it calm. Skip the big welcome party and let your dog explore at their own pace.
- Set a routine. Regular times for meals, toilet breaks, walks and sleep help your dog feel secure.
- Start toilet training straight away. Take your dog out after meals, naps and play, and reward them every time they go in the right spot.
- Teach the basics with rewards: name, sit, come, and walking on a loose lead.
- Socialise gently. Introduce new people, sounds and places a little at a time.
- Practise short alone time so your dog learns that you always come back.
Step 6: Getting Out and About
Once your vet gives the all-clear, start exploring. Short, positive walks are better than long, tiring ones at first. When you're ready for adventures, check out our guides to dog-friendly cafés in Sydney's Inner West and off-leash dog beaches in Sydney.
FAQ
What do I need to buy for a new puppy?
A bed or crate, bowls, food, a collar with an ID tag, a harness and lead, poop bags, toys, grooming basics and training treats.
Should a puppy wear a collar or a harness?
Both. A collar for everyday ID, and a harness for walks, because it's gentler on a puppy's neck. Read Harness vs Collar for more.
When can I start walking my puppy?
Once your vet confirms their vaccinations are complete. Until then, play in your own yard and carry them out to see the world.
Do I have to register my dog?
Yes. Microchipping and registration are required across Australia, and the exact rules depend on your state.
Welcome to Dog Ownership
It's a lot to take in, but the first few weeks set you both up for years of happy walks. Start with the essentials, keep things calm and consistent, and enjoy getting to know your new best friend. If you need walk gear, our Harness Walk Set has everything for day one.