Essential Supplies Checklist for NJ Dog Owners: What to Buy Before Bringing Home Your Pup

Bringing a new dog into your New Jersey home? Whether you’re adopting a senior pup from a local rescue or welcoming your first-ever puppy from a reputable breeder, the first week is critical. Having the right essentials on hand makes the transition smoother—for you and your dog.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through an expertly curated dog essentials checklist for NJ pet parents, covering everything from leashes and bowls to one of the most overlooked, yet important decisions: what food to start with.

Let’s dive in.

Why Preparation Matters for NJ Dog Owners

New Jersey pet parents often lead busy lives—commuting to New York City, balancing kids' sports leagues, or navigating small living spaces. Having all your dog supplies ready before your pup arrives makes a huge difference.

Bonus Tip: In NJ, harsh winters and humid summers can influence the kind of gear you need (think waterproof leashes and cooling mats).

Your Complete Dog Supplies Checklist

Here’s a complete list of what to buy before your dog sets paw in your home. We’ve divided it into sections for easy shopping and planning.

1. Feeding Essentials

• High-quality, fresh dog food – Start strong with vet-approved meals like Leo’s Organic Bowl
• Food and water bowls (preferably stainless steel or ceramic)
• Airtight food storage bin
• Measuring scoop or digital scale
• Dog treats (for training and bonding)

Why Leo’s Organic Bowl? It arrives in 7 pre-portioned, ready-to-serve containers. No shopping. No scooping kibble. Just defrost and serve.

2. Comfort & Sleeping Gear

• Dog bed (size-appropriate)
• Blankets for warmth and familiarity
• Crate (for training and safe space)
• Baby gates (to section off rooms early on)

3. Training Tools

• Clicker (for positive reinforcement)
• Training treats
• Puppy pads or indoor potty solution
• Enzyme cleaner (for inevitable accidents)

4. Walking & Outdoor Gear

• Flat collar with ID tag
• Harness (especially for puppies or small breeds)
• Leash (4-6 ft is ideal for control)
• Dog waste bags + holder
• Portable water bottle for walks

5. Grooming Supplies

• Dog-safe shampoo and conditioner
• Brush or comb (based on coat type)
• Dog nail clippers or grinder
• Ear cleaner
• Dog toothbrush and toothpaste

6. Health & Wellness

• Flea/tick preventative
• Heartworm meds (check with NJ vet)
• First aid kit (including tweezers, gauze, antiseptic)
• Vaccination and vet records folder

The One Thing NJ Dog Owners Often Overlook: Food Quality

Feeding your new dog may seem simple, but what you choose sets the tone for lifelong health.

Most big-brand kibbles are:

• Made with ingredients that are not fit for human consumption
• Packed with low-quality fillers (corn, soy, meat meal)
• Preserved with artificial chemicals
• Hard to digest

New dogs are adjusting to a new home, new smells, and new routines. The last thing they need is digestive upset or allergic reactions.

That’s why Leo’s Organic Bowl is recommended by NJ pet parents.

What Makes Leo’s a Must-Have for Your First Week?

• ✅ Real Ingredients: Organic meats, whole grains, and garden veggies
• ✅ Pre-Portioned Meals: Delivered in 7 containers, one for each day
• ✅ Free NJ Delivery in Select Areas: No need to leave the house in week one
• ✅ Easy on Tummies: Especially for rescues or puppies transitioning from shelter food

Sample Week One Feeding Plan (with Leo’s)

Try both recipes during week one and see which your dog prefers!

First Week Tips for NJ Dog Owners

• Stick to a routine feeding schedule (2-3x/day)
• Don’t switch foods abruptly—start with Leo’s and stick to it
• Reward calm behavior around meals
• Use mealtime to build trust (hand-feed a few bites)
• Keep the food area quiet and distraction-free

NJ-Specific Considerations

• Many NJ apartments and condos require pet insurance or deposits—keep proof of Leo’s vet-approved diet for documentation.
• Outdoor feeding isn’t recommended due to pests and heat.
• Use ice packs or a cooler for Leo’s meals during summer trips down the shore.

FAQ: New Puppy Checklist and Food Questions

Q1: How many meals come in one Leo’s order?
A: Each order includes 7 individually portioned meals—one for each day of the week.

Q2: Is fresh food better than kibble?
A: Yes. Fresh food is more digestible, contains no fillers, and delivers real nutrients your dog can absorb.

Q3: What’s the best way to store Leo’s?
A: Freeze upon delivery. Defrost one package at a time by placing it in the refrigerator 1 or 2 days prior to feeding. Refrigerate the defrosted food for up to  4 days.

Q4: How do I transition to fresh food?
A: Gradually mix Leo’s with your current food over 5-7 days, increasing the quantity of Leo’s food each day and reducing the quantity of kibble each day. .

Q5: Do I need a prescription for Leo’s?
A: Nope! Just take our Meal Planner Quiz and get matched to your dog’s needs.

Final Thoughts: Set the Tone for Health

Your dog’s first week at home is full of joy, curiosity, and new beginnings. With the right supplies, you’ll avoid unnecessary stress. And by starting with Leo’s Organic Bowl, you’ll give your dog exactly what they need to thrive.

Explore our fresh food bundles, check your zip code for free NJ delivery, and claim 50% off your first order today.