1. Choose the Right Pup for You
Before falling in love with the first fluffy face you see, think realistically about your lifestyle. Are you active? Do you live in an apartment or a house with a yard?
Different breeds (and mixed breeds!) have different energy levels, temperaments, and care needs.
Do a little homework to make sure your future pup fits your day-to-day life.
2. Puppy-Proof Your Home
Puppies explore the world with their mouths—so your home needs to be safe.
Here’s a quick puppy-proofing checklist:
- Hide electrical cords
- Secure trash bins and cleaning supplies
- Remove small, chewable items
- Keep toxic foods (like chocolate and grapes) far out of reach
Think of it like baby-proofing… but with sharper teeth and less impulse control.
Cover My Puppy’s Vet Bills
SIGN UP NOW3. Get the Basics
Stock up on supplies before your puppy arrives:
- Food & treats: Choose high-quality puppy food and soft training treats
- Crate: A safe den-like space is key for potty training and downtime
- Leash, collar, and ID tag
- Bowls, toys, brush, shampoo, toothbrush
Tip: Crate training isn’t punishment—it’s comfort. Dogs are den animals by nature. Use treats to encourage your pup into their crate and gradually increase time spent there.
4. Schedule Their First Vet Visit
Once your pup’s home, book a vet appointment within the first week.
The vet will:
- Check their overall health
- Start their vaccine schedule
- Give advice on feeding, parasite prevention, and more
Early vet visits build a solid foundation for your puppy’s health—and give you a trusted pro to turn to when questions pop up.
5. Get Pet Health Insurance ASAP
Vet bills can add up—fast. Accidents happen (hello, sock-eating phase), and some breeds are prone to costly conditions. Pet health insurance helps cover:
- Accidents and illnesses
- Chronic conditions
- Some routine care (depending on your plan)
Signing up early means fewer exclusions for “pre-existing conditions,” so your pup should get covered while they’re still young and healthy.
Lemonade Pet, for example, offers customizable plans that can fit different budgets and needs. Whether you want to cover just the big emergencies or routine wellness too, insurance gives you peace of mind—and protects your wallet.
