Bringing home a tiny companion puppy is exciting, and the last thing you want on day one is a scramble to the store. A little shopping ahead of time lets your new pup settle in calmly instead of waiting while you improvise. This checklist is built specifically for small companion breeds — the Maltipoos, Yorkies, Shih Tzus, Cavapoos and similar pups we raise here at Sugar Sweet Georgia Puppies in Lawrenceville — so every item is sized and chosen with a five-to-fifteen-pound dog in mind.

If you’re still deciding which pup is right for you, browse our current litters page and our list of available breeds first, then come back and shop from the list below.

Why a small-breed checklist is different

Big-dog gear doesn’t simply shrink. A tiny puppy needs a crate that isn’t cavernous, a collar light enough that it doesn’t weigh down a delicate neck, and toys with no small parts to swallow. Small breeds also burn energy fast, so skipped meals can leave a very young pup sluggish — a good reason to have food and a feeding routine ready before arrival, and to keep your veterinarian’s number close. Everything below reflects that pint-sized reality.

Sleep & safe space

Your puppy’s first job at home is to rest and feel secure. A crate becomes a den, not a punishment, when it’s the right size and cozy.

• A right-sized crate. The VCA advises a crate just large enough for a puppy to stand, turn around, and lie down — too much room invites potty accidents in the corner. Look for a divider so the crate can grow with your pup.
• A soft, washable bed or crate pad that fits inside without crowding.
• Baby gates or an exercise pen to fence off a safe zone while your puppy learns the house.
• A small blanket — bring it when you pick your puppy up so it carries a familiar scent home.

Setting up this space before day one pairs naturally with our guides on preparing your home for a new puppy and gentle crate training.

Feeding gear & food

Have food and dishes ready so your puppy’s first meal at home is a calm one.

• Non-tip bowls. Choose washable stainless-steel or ceramic dishes designed to resist flipping, which spares you spills and mess.
• A complete puppy food that is labeled AAFCO-approved for growth or all life stages. Ask your breeder what the puppy is currently eating and start with the same brand.
• Small training treats that break into tiny pieces — perfect for a little mouth and for reward-based training.
• A measuring cup so portions stay consistent from meal to meal.

If you do switch foods, do it slowly. The American Animal Hospital Association recommends transitioning to a new diet gradually rather than all at once, so a puppy’s stomach has time to adjust. Mixing a little more new food into the old over about a week is a common, gentle approach — and if any digestive upset lasts more than a day, call your vet.

Walking, collar & ID

Even an indoor pup needs identification and a safe way to go outside for potty breaks.

• A lightweight breakaway collar, fitted so you can slip two fingers underneath. Breakaway styles reduce the risk of choking on a small dog.
• A fixed four-to-six-foot leash for controlled walks; skip retractable leashes while your puppy is learning.
• An ID tag engraved with your phone number.
• Microchip conversation. Ask us and your veterinarian about microchipping as a permanent backup to the tag.

Save or print this checklist before your puppy’s homecoming.

Play & comfort

Play is how puppies learn and burn off the zoomies. Choose toys sized for a small mouth with nothing that can splinter or be swallowed whole.

• Safe chew toys matched to your puppy’s size to soothe sore teething gums.
• A puzzle or treat-dispensing toy to keep a clever pup busy.
• A soft plush for snuggling and settling at rest.
• A durable rubber teether for the chewy months ahead.

Cleanup & grooming basics

Accidents happen while your puppy learns, and small companion coats need light upkeep from the start.

• An enzymatic cleaner to fully neutralize accident odors so your pup isn’t drawn back to the same spot.
• Potty pads or a designated outdoor spot to anchor your potty-training routine.
• A soft brush and puppy-safe shampoo to get your pup used to gentle handling early.
• Nail clippers made for tiny paws.

Many of our fluffier breeds do best with professional coat care every few weeks. When you’re ready, you can book a grooming appointment right here in Lawrenceville.

Health & paperwork

The final category is the one new owners forget in the excitement — but it matters most.

• Your puppy’s records, including the health paperwork and Premier Kennel Club (PKC) registration information we provide.
• A first veterinary visit booked within a few days of homecoming. Your vet will set the vaccination and deworming schedule that’s right for your puppy — this checklist is not a substitute for that professional care.
• A saved list of pet-safe versus toxic foods (chocolate, grapes, xylitol and onions are common hazards) posted where the family can see it.
• Your nearest emergency vet’s number stored in your phone before you need it.

A calm day one in Georgia

Once the supplies are ready, keep the first day low-key: a quiet arrival, a short tour of the safe space, a small meal, and lots of nap time. Metro Atlanta summers run hot, so limit outdoor time to brief, shaded potty breaks and always bring fresh water. Families across Gwinnett County and nearby cities are welcome to visit us during our open hours — and if budgeting the first few months feels daunting, our first-year cost guide and financing options can help you plan.