48-Hour New Puppy Checklist

A practical, step-by-step checklist to get your new puppy safely through the first two days — covering supplies, the first vet visit, feeding, and house-training.

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Supplies to Have Ready Before Arrival

Collar or harness with an ID tag showing your phone number, plus a non-retractable 4–6 ft leash.
A crate just big enough to stand, turn, and lie down, with a soft washable bed and a blanket that smells like the breeder/mother.
Two stainless-steel bowls for food and water, plus a small supply of the exact food the puppy was already eating.
Enzymatic cleaner for accidents, puppy-safe chew toys, and a few pee pads or newspaper for the first nights.
A secure, puppy-proofed room or playpen: cover cords, remove shoes, plants, and anything small enough to swallow.
A simple feeding/hydration log and a notebook to track potty times, meals, and any concerns for the vet.

First Vet Visit (Within 48 Hours)

Book the appointment the same day the puppy arrives and ask about the vaccine/deworming schedule.
Bring any records from the breeder or shelter (vaccines, deworming, microchip) and a fresh stool sample in a sealed bag.
Have the vet do a full nose-to-tail exam: eyes, ears, teeth, heart, lungs, joints, and weight.
Ask about breed-specific risks, parasites/fleas, feeding amount, and the right timeline for socialisation.
Note the vet's emergency number and find the nearest 24-hour animal hospital in case of night emergencies.
Set the next visit before leaving: first booster vaccines are usually due 2–4 weeks later.

Feeding for the First Two Days

Keep the exact same food the puppy was already on; switch diets only gradually over 7–10 days if needed.
Feed 3–4 small meals a day at the same times, following the portion guide on the package for the puppy's age and weight.
Use room-temperature water, refill it at least twice a day, and watch that the puppy drinks normally.
Watch for digestive upset (vomiting or diarrhoea); if it lasts more than a day or the puppy refuses to eat, call the vet.
Avoid treats, table scraps, and new chews in the first 48 hours to protect a sensitive stomach.
Weigh the puppy daily and write down how much of each meal is eaten.

House-Training in the First 48 Hours

Take the puppy out every 1–2 hours during the day, plus right after waking, eating, drinking, and playing.
Always go to the same outdoor spot and say a cue word like "go potty" so the puppy associates the place with the action.
Praise and give a tiny treat immediately after the puppy goes in the right place.
Supervise constantly indoors; use the crate or a closed-off area when you cannot watch.
If you catch an accident, interrupt calmly and carry the puppy outside — never punish or rub its nose in it.
Clean all accidents with an enzymatic cleaner so the smell does not attract repeat accidents.