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New puppy checklist (Australia)
Updated 2026-10-16. General information, not veterinary advice.
This is general information, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about anything specific to your puppy.
Before pickup
- Puppy-proof the house: cables, shoes, plants, bins, cleaning products
- Set up a crate or pen with bedding in a quiet spot
- Buy the same food your breeder or rescue is feeding, and ask for a feeding schedule
- Book a first vet appointment for the first week
- Check council rules about registration and the number of dogs allowed
- Arrange leave or help for the first few days
Gear
- Crate or pen and a washable bed
- Collar with ID tag, and harness
- Lead (and later a long line for recall)
- Food and water bowls, or a slow feeder
- Chew toys and stuffable toys
- Brush and nail trimmer matched to the coat
- Poo bags and enzyme cleaner
- Tick check tool and a plan for parasite control agreed with your vet
- Cool mat and a shaded outdoor spot
First week
- Vet check, vaccination schedule and worming plan
- Microchip details registered or updated
- Council registration (check your state and council)
- Toilet routine: out after waking, eating, play and every 1-2 hours
- Short, positive training: name, sit, come, settle
- Handle paws, ears and mouth gently every day
Ongoing
- Socialisation within what your vet says is safe
- Puppy preschool run by a qualified trainer (see training directory)
- Daily tick checks in tick areas (tick and heat safety)
- Pet insurance quotes, if you want it