What you’ll want before your puppy comes home
Bringing home a German Shepherd puppy is exciting—and a little chaotic. Having the right basics ready helps your puppy settle in faster, keeps routines consistent, and reduces stress during the first week.
Essentials (start here)
Food + feeding basics
- Premium large-breed puppy food (example options: Royal Canin Maxi 30/32, Iams Large Breed Puppy, etc.).
- Stainless steel, non-tip bowls for food and water.
- Fresh water daily (clean bowl, refilled as needed).
Collar, leash, and ID
- Identification tag with puppy name + your name + phone number.
- Collar (a breakaway collar with a plastic clip can be safer if snagged).
- 6-foot leash (leather or nylon), about ½–¾ inch wide.
Crate (home + travel)
- Airline-approved crate sized for your puppy’s adult size (or use a divider if needed).
- Your puppy’s crate becomes a safe “den” for resting, travel, and vet visits.
- Your puppy’s scent in the crate helps create comfort and routine.
Chewing + teething
- High-quality, safe chew toys to ease teething.
- Rotate toys and keep a couple of “favorites” to prevent boredom.
Optional (but helpful) items
Cleanup + home protection
- Stain remover for accidental soiling.
- Paper towels + enzymatic cleaner (puppy accidents happen).
Grooming + hygiene
- Brushes/comb suited to your puppy’s coat (ask your breeder or veterinarian for the right type).
- Dog shampoo (gentle) + toothbrush and toothpaste.
- Nail clippers (or plan regular trims).
Parasite prevention
- Flea, tick, and parasite controls as recommended by your veterinarian.
Treats (for training)
- Keep treats very small. Training rewards add up fast—too many extra calories can upset growth and digestion.
- IMPORTANT (Breeder Guidance): When your puppy first arrives home, stress + a new environment can make the stomach extra sensitive. Many “normal” treats that work for other dogs can be too rich at this stage.
- Please do not use other treats at first. We are not saying other brands are “bad” in general—however, our puppies are coming from our specific feeding routine, and early treat changes can trigger vomiting/diarrhea. If you overfeed or introduce other treats right away, your puppy can become severely sick.
- Simple rule: tiny rewards, slow changes, and consistency first. If you want to introduce new treats later, do it gradually—one new item at a time.
Questions before pickup day?
If you want help choosing supplies, crate sizing, or what to buy first (and what to skip), call or message us anytime.