Puppy Starter Pack: What Your New Puppy Needs

November 12, 2026

Key Takeaways

Quick Comparison Table

A well-rounded puppy starter pack brings together feeding equipment, safety gear, nutrition, and training tools. The table below compares the seven core items that form a practical foundation for bringing a new puppy home, covering everything from bowls to treats.

1. Puppy Bowl Starter Pack

A puppy needs proper feeding bowls from day one, and the Puppy Bowl Starter Pack gives you everything required to set up mealtime correctly. This pack includes two bowls (630ml and 650ml capacity), plus a non-slip silicone mat that keeps bowls in place during feeding. It comes in blue or pink. The mat prevents bowls from sliding across your kitchen floor. This reduces mess and helps your puppy focus on eating rather than chasing the dishes around.

The non-slip silicone base is the standout feature here. Puppies are clumsy eaters, and when bowls move, water spills and food scatters. The two different bowl sizes let you use one for water and one for food, or swap them out as your puppy grows.

Here’s what works well:

• Prevents spills and mess during feeding time
• Two-bowl design covers both food and water needs
• Non-slip mat keeps everything stable on tile or wooden floors

Two drawbacks to consider:

• The bowls may feel small once your puppy reaches adult size
• The mat can trap water underneath if you don’t dry it regularly

If you’re starting with a large breed puppy, you might need to upgrade the bowls sooner.

Verdict: Best for puppies starting solids and owners who want a complete, affordable feeding solution.

2. Puppy Collar & Lead

A puppy collar and lead set gives you safe control during walks and training. Your puppy needs to get used to wearing a collar early, and a lead keeps them close while they’re learning the world. An adjustable collar grows with your pup, and a 120cm lead offers enough length for exploration without letting them bolt into danger.

Our Puppy Collar & Lead features an adjustable snap-fit buckle that you can loosen as your puppy grows. The 120cm lead gives your pup room to sniff and explore while you stay in control.

Key features:

• Adjustable straps
• Snap-fit buckle closure
• 120cm lead length for balanced control and freedom
• Lobster clasp on the lead

Pros:

• Grows with your puppy so you don’t need to buy multiple collars
• Long enough lead lets puppies explore without bolting away

Cons:

• Adjustable collars can loosen over time with active puppies
• 120cm lead may feel short if you walk in open spaces or off-lead parks

It’s ideal if you’re training your pup to walk on a loose lead and introducing them to new environments safely.

Many Australian puppy owners pair a collar and lead with a good lead, training treats and regular practice.

Verdict: A practical starter choice for everyday walks and early training.

3. Pet Playpen Foldable Large

A foldable playpen gives your puppy a safe space to play and rest while you manage the house. The Pet Playpen Foldable Large measures 94 centimetres in diameter with 58-centimetre high panels, so it suits most indoor spaces and even outdoor patios. Breathable mesh sides let you see your puppy at all times, and the whole thing collapses flat for storage or travel.

Puppies need boundaries. Without a playpen, your new pup will chew your furniture, eat things off the floor, or slip out the front door when you’re not looking. This playpen creates a controlled zone where your puppy learns the rules of your home. You can leave food, water, toys, and a bed inside, then step away knowing your puppy is contained and safe.

The mesh design is the standout feature here. Unlike solid plastic pens, you can see through every panel. Air flows freely, so the pen doesn’t feel like a cage. The foldable design means you’re not stuck with a bulky frame taking up space permanently. Collapse it flat and slot it into a cupboard when you don’t need it.

Three big advantages stand out:

• Breathable mesh keeps airflow moving and lets you watch your puppy constantly
• Folds completely flat for storage or transport to a friend’s house
• Made for indoor and outdoor use, and can be secured to the ground outside

Two drawbacks to consider:

• Mesh panels can tear if your puppy is a determined chewer or has sharp nails
• The pen is large, so it takes up real floor space even when set up

This playpen works best for puppies under six months old or small breeds that won’t outgrow it. If you have a giant breed like a Great Dane, you’ll need something bigger eventually. For most Australian families bringing home a Labrador, Cavalier, or mixed-breed pup, this size hits the sweet spot.

The Pet Playpen Foldable Large is a solid investment for your first weeks together. Pair it with a bed and some toys from your puppy starter pack. Your puppy has everything needed to settle in safely.

4. Pet Folding Crate Medium

A folding crate gives your puppy a safe den and makes house training easier. The Pet Folding Crate Medium measures 76 x 57 x 53 centimetres and collapses flat for storage or travel. Dogs naturally seek enclosed spaces, so a crate becomes your puppy’s own room rather than a punishment tool. This size works well for small to medium breed puppies as they grow into adolescence.

Pros:

• Helps with toilet training because puppies avoid soiling their sleeping area
• Folds flat for easy transport to vet visits, holidays, or friends’ homes

Cons:

• Puppies left too long in a crate can develop anxiety or become destructive
• Medium size may feel cramped for large breed puppies within six months

A crate works best when paired with a comfortable bed inside. Add a Pet Bed Round Medium to make the space inviting (New Puppy Checklist). Never use the crate as punishment-your puppy should see it as a safe retreat.

This crate suits families who want a reliable house-training tool (see our crate training guide) without a permanent fixture taking up space. It’s also ideal if you travel regularly or plan to move house. The foldable design makes it practical for Australian homes where storage space often matters.

Combine this with puppy training pads placed outside the crate to reinforce good toilet habits. Most puppies grasp the concept quickly when they have a designated potty area separate from their sleeping zone.

5. Hills Science Diet Puppy Small Bites

Hills Science Diet Puppy Small Bites is a dry food made specifically for small and medium breed puppies.

The kibble size is smaller than standard puppy foods, making it easier for little mouths to chew and digest.

Key features that stand out:

• Small kibble pieces designed for small breed puppies
• DHA from fish oil for brain and eye development
• Balanced minerals for bones and teeth
• Easy-to-digest ingredients and natural fibres
• No artificial colours, flavours or preservatives

Pros:

Cons:

• More expensive than budget puppy foods
• Some puppies may need a transition period if switching from another brand
• Not suitable for puppies with specific allergies (check the ingredient list)
• Requires storage in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness
• Larger bag sizes can be heavy to carry

Hills Science Diet works best for families wanting a science-backed food they can trust.

Verdict: A reliable option for growing small breed puppies.

6. True Colours Puppy Australian Chicken and Brown Rice

True Colours Puppy Australian Chicken and Brown Rice is a locally made food designed for growing puppies. The brand sources Australian chicken and combines it with brown rice for a complete, balanced diet. It comes in 3 kg and 20 kg bags, so you can choose based on your puppy’s size and how quickly you’ll go through it. This is an excellent choice if you want to support an Australian manufacturer while feeding your pup quality ingredients.

Here are the main strengths of this puppy starter pack addition:

• Made in Australia, with recipes developed with pet nutritionists and veterinarians
• Chicken meal is the first ingredient
• No artificial colours or preservatives, and hormone and GMO free

Two drawbacks worth considering:

• The 20 kg bag is heavy to store and handle if you have a small kitchen or limited space

True Colours works best for Australian families who value locally produced pet food and want transparency about ingredients. It’s ideal if your puppy doesn’t have grain sensitivities, since brown rice is included. The 3 kg bag suits small to medium breed puppies just starting out. Meanwhile, the 20 kg option makes sense once you know your pup tolerates it well.

Verdict: A solid, affordable Australian option that delivers real chicken and balanced nutrition without breaking the budget.

7. Boat To Bowl Training Treats

The treats come from Australian waters, which appeals to owners who want locally sourced products.

Key features include:

• High-value protein from fish, which drives training motivation
• Two ingredients: 100% Australian tuna and sardines
• 140g pack
• Suitable for every breed, age and size

Boat To Bowl Training Treats shine in three ways. First, the fish smell is incredibly potent-your puppy will remember these treats fast. Second, you can easily portion them into tiny bits, so one treat goes a long way during training. Third, they’re genuinely Australian, which matters to many families wanting to support local producers.

However, a couple of drawbacks exist. The strong fish smell lingers on your hands and training bag. Some puppies with sensitive stomachs may find fish-based treats rich, so introduce them slowly.

These treats suit puppies in active training. Keep them in a Coachi Train and Treat Bag on walks. Use them for teaching commands, recall, and positive reinforcement during house-training. They’re perfect if your pup is food-motivated and responds well to high-value rewards.

Boat To Bowl Training Treats deliver reliable, motivating rewards that keep your puppy engaged during training sessions.

Best for: Puppies in active training who need consistent, high-value rewards to stay focused on learning commands and good behaviour.

Pros and Cons of Each Top Pick

A good puppy starter pack balances essentials with value. Some packs focus on feeding gear, others on toys and training. Your choice depends on what your new puppy needs most and your budget. Let’s break down the real strengths and weaknesses of the top options so you can pick the right fit.

Pros:

• Complete feeding solutions save time-you get bowls, mats, and sometimes slow-feed designs that prevent gulping and bloating
• Training pads in bulk (20, 100, or 200 packs) mean you’re covered for weeks without reordering, which beats buying small packs repeatedly
• Bundled toys and treats reduce decision fatigue when you’re already overwhelmed with a new puppy at home
• Adjustable collars and harnesses grow with your puppy for several months, so you’re not buying new gear every few weeks
• Foldable crates and playpens offer flexible housing options-use them indoors, outdoors, or travel without taking up permanent space
• Our monthly Starter Box packs food suited to your pet’s size and stage, two toys and a treat each month

Cons:

• Many packs include generic toys that won’t suit every puppy’s chewing style or energy level-some dogs ignore soft plush toys entirely
• Training pads in bulk quantities waste money if your puppy housetrain faster than expected or if you prefer outdoor toileting from day one
• One-size-fits-all harnesses and collars may not fit small breeds well-you might need to buy a second set anyway
• Bundled food is sometimes low-quality kibble that doesn’t suit sensitive stomachs, forcing you to switch and waste unopened bags
• Crates take up closet space between uses, and not every puppy adjusts well to crate training regardless of the setup

The best puppy starter pack combines practical items you’ll genuinely use with room to swap out pieces that don’t match your pup’s personality.

What to Look For in a Puppy Starter Pack

Choosing the right puppy starter pack means thinking about your pup’s size, age, and what you’ll actually use every day. A good pack covers feeding, toileting, play, and safety without overwhelming you with stuff you don’t need. Focus on quality items that’ll last through the first few months, not just cheap filler.

Size and breed matter most. Small breed puppies need different bowl heights and smaller collars than large breeds. Medium-sized pups sit in the middle. Check the pack’s weight limits and dimensions. A collar that fits a Chihuahua won’t work for a Labrador. Many packs come in size options, so pick the one that matches your puppy’s current weight and expected adult size.

Feeding essentials are non-negotiable. Your pack should include bowls (ideally two-one for water, one for food) and a non-slip mat to keep them steady. The mat prevents spills on your floors.

Toileting supplies make or break early training. Training pads such as our 100-pack puppy training pads help in the first weeks (see our puppy pads guide). Look for packs that include at least 20 pads. Larger packs (100 or 200 pads) save money if you’re committing to pad training. Some puppies transition to outdoor toileting faster than others, so don’t buy the biggest pack upfront.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you look for in a puppy starter pack?

Look for quality materials, good reviews, and features that match your specific needs.

Shop puppy starter pack essentials

• Dog training products: bowls, pads, slow feeders and treat bags
• Harnesses, leads and collars
• Dry dog food, including puppy food
• Dog toys and treats and chews
• Flea, tick and worm control for puppies and kittens, such as ParaGard Allwormer for Small Dogs and Puppies
• Monthly pet box: Starter $49.99, Standard $69.99 or Deluxe $99.99 a month, cancel any time

More guides: how to choose an online pet store, pet supplies checklist, puppy food guide, dog playpen guide, dog crate guide, dog collar guide, dog toys guide and dog shampoo guide.

Dr Jay Rollings BSc DVM

Veterinarian – Dr Jay Rollings is a skilled veterinarian with 12 years experience in wildlife research and conservation

During veterinary school, he contributed to projects involving species such as hammerhead sharks, Shark Bay mice, woylies, mulgara, and kangaroos, gaining valuable hands-on experience in wildlife health and preservation.