Puppy Supplies Checklist
Everything you need before bringing your new small breed puppy home. A complete puppy shopping list and puppy essentials list for Teacup Yorkies, Toy Poodles, Chihuahuas, and Dachshunds — with breed-specific tips from Maryland Pocket Puppies.
The Essential Puppy Supplies Checklist
Check off each item as you prepare for your new arrival. At Maryland Pocket Puppies, we recommend having these supplies ready before pickup day.
Crate & Bedding
A crate is not a cage — it's a safe, den-like space where your puppy can rest and feel secure. At Maryland Pocket Puppies, we start crate training early and recommend continuing this practice at home.
| Item | Breed-Specific Tip |
|---|---|
| Crate | Teacup Yorkies: 18-24" • Toy Poodles: 24-30" • Chihuahuas: 18-24" • Dachshunds: 24-30" |
| Crate Divider | Essential for all breeds to prevent accidents |
| Crate Mat/Bed | Washable cover recommended for easy cleaning |
| Puppy Blanket | Adds familiar scent; helps with anxiety |
| Puppy-Proofing Gate | Small breed puppies can fit through tight spaces |
Food & Feeding Supplies
Small breed puppies have fast metabolisms and require frequent, portion-controlled meals. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) is a concern for tiny breeds, so proper feeding is essential.
| Item | Breed-Specific Tip |
|---|---|
| Small Breed Puppy Food | Choose premium small-breed formula with appropriate kibble size |
| Food & Water Bowls | Stainless steel or ceramic; choose small bowls to prevent neck strain |
| Puppy Feeding Schedule | Teacup Yorkies & Chihuahuas: 3-4 meals daily • Toy Poodles & Dachshunds: 2-3 meals daily |
| Travel Food Container | Essential for vet visits and travel |
Collars, Leashes & Identification
Small breed puppies need lightweight, comfortable equipment that fits their delicate bodies.
| Item | Breed-Specific Tip |
|---|---|
| Lightweight Puppy Collar | Choose soft, lightweight material that doesn't irritate their skin |
| Adjustable Harness | Safer for small breeds — especially Dachshunds (back health) |
| Leash | 4-6 foot lightweight leash |
| ID Tags | Include your phone number and address |
| Microchipping | We microchip every puppy at Maryland Pocket Puppies |
Potty Training Supplies
Potty training a small breed puppy requires patience and the right tools. Their tiny bladders mean frequent trips outside.
| Item | Breed-Specific Tip |
|---|---|
| Puppy Pads | Choose highly absorbent pads in small breed size |
| Enzymatic Cleaner | Removes odor and prevents repeat accidents |
| Poop Bags | Essential for outdoor cleanup |
| Bell or Potty Training Tool | Teaches your puppy to signal when they need to go |
Grooming Supplies
Small breed puppies have different grooming needs. Teacup Yorkies and Toy Poodles require daily brushing, while Chihuahuas and Dachshunds need regular maintenance.
| Item | Breed-Specific Tip |
|---|---|
| Pin Brush | Essential for daily coat care (Yorkies & Poodles) |
| Slicker Brush | Removes tangles and mats; choose small, gentle brush |
| Small Breed Nail Clippers | Designed specifically for small breed nails |
| Puppy Shampoo & Conditioner | Choose tear-free, puppy-safe formula |
| Ear Cleaner | Weekly cleaning recommended for all breeds |
| Toothbrush & Dog Toothpaste | Small breed-specific toothbrush |
Toys & Enrichment
Small breed puppies are intelligent and need mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Our puppies at Maryland Pocket Puppies love puzzle toys — they keep their brilliant minds busy.
| Item | Breed-Specific Tip |
|---|---|
| Chew Toys | Choose small breed-safe toys (not too large) |
| Interactive Puzzle Toys | Especially important for Toy Poodles (high intelligence) |
| Soft Plush Toys | Choose squeaky toys without small parts |
| Tug Toys | Gentle tug toys for small breeds |
| Treat Dispensing Toys | Great for alone time |
Learn about puppy socialization → | Learn about separation anxiety in puppies →
Health & Wellness Supplies
Prevention is better than cure. Maryland Pocket Puppies provides complete health records, including OFA certification for breeding parents, but you'll also need these essentials at home.
| Item | Breed-Specific Tip |
|---|---|
| First Aid Kit | Include puppy-safe supplies |
| Styptic Powder | Stops bleeding from nail trimming accidents |
| Flea & Tick Prevention | Maryland's climate means fleas and ticks are present year-round |
| Deworming Medication | Follow your vet's schedule |
| Pet Insurance Information | Peace of mind for unexpected vet bills |
Health & Training Records
Keeping organized records makes veterinary visits easier and ensures your puppy receives consistent care.
| Item | Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Vaccination Records | Track your puppy's vaccine schedule |
| Deworming Schedule | Keep track of deworming dates |
| Weight Tracking Log | Monitor your puppy's growth |
| Training Log | Track milestones and progress |
| Veterinary Contact Information | Have your vet's number on hand |
📋 Printable Puppy Supplies Checklist
Use this handy checklist to make sure you have everything before bringing your puppy home.
Breed-Specific Additions
Each breed has unique needs. Here are additional supplies to consider based on your puppy's breed.
🐾 Teacup Yorkies
- Extra-small grooming tools
- High-quality small-breed kibble (frequent small meals)
- Daily brushing supplies (coat can mat easily)
- Soft, cozy bed (they love burrowing)
🐩 Toy Poodles
- Puzzle toys (they need mental stimulation)
- Hypoallergenic grooming supplies (sensitive skin)
- Professional grooming appointments scheduled
- Tear-free shampoo
🐕 Chihuahuas
- Extra-small collar and harness
- Warm bedding (they get cold easily)
- Patience for potty training (they can be stubborn)
- Gentle toys (they are delicate)
🌭 Dachshunds
- Ramps/steps for furniture (to protect their backs)
- Back-care guidance from your vet
- Long crates or beds (they need extra length)
- Weight management tools (they are prone to obesity)
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Welcome a Puppy from Maryland Pocket Puppies?
Now that you have everything you need, are you ready to bring home your new companion? We serve families throughout Maryland, including Baltimore, Annapolis, Bethesda, Silver Spring, Rockville, Columbia, Frederick, and Gaithersburg. Our puppies are raised with love, vet-checked, health-guaranteed, and backed by a 10-year health guarantee.
Have Questions About Preparing for Your Puppy?
Reach out to our team for guidance and support. We're here to help you and your puppy thrive.
📧 Contact Maryland Pocket Puppies