Sleeping and resting
- Crate: Choose one sized for an adult Lab, around 42 inches, with a divider so you can shrink the space while your puppy is small. A crate that's too big invites accidents.
- Crate pad or bedding: Something washable. Many puppies chew bedding at first, so start simple.
- Crate cover or blanket: Covering part of the crate can help a puppy settle at night.
Your puppy will come home with a blanket that smells like their litter. Keep it in the crate for the first few weeks.
Food and water
- Puppy food: Start with the food your puppy has already been eating. Ask us at pickup and we'll tell you what to buy. A large-breed puppy formula is a good long-term choice for Labs.
- Bowls: Stainless steel is easy to clean and hard to chew.
- Measuring cup: Labs love to eat, and keeping them lean is one of the best things you can do for their joints.
- Treats: Small, soft training treats for rewarding potty breaks and good behavior.
Walking and ID
- Adjustable collar: Puppies grow quickly, so choose one with room to expand.
- ID tag: Your name and phone number, even though your puppy is microchipped.
- Leash: A simple six-foot leash. Skip retractable leashes for training.
- Harness (optional): Helpful for pups who pull.
Remember to register your puppy's microchip in your name the week you bring them home.
Toys and chews
Labs are mouthy puppies, and the right toys save your furniture.
- Durable rubber chew toys
- A soft toy for comfort
- A puzzle or treat-dispensing toy for mental exercise
- Teething toys you can chill in the freezer
Rotate toys every few days so they stay interesting, and avoid anything small enough to swallow.
Grooming
English Labs have a thick double coat that sheds year-round.
- Slicker brush or undercoat rake
- Nail clippers or a grinder
- Gentle dog shampoo
- Ear cleaner and cotton pads
- Dog toothbrush and toothpaste
Start handling paws, ears and mouth gently from the first week so grooming never becomes a fight.
Cleaning supplies
- Enzyme cleaner: Breaks down accident odors so your puppy isn't drawn back to the same spot.
- Paper towels: Lots of them.
- Poop bags: For walks and the yard.
- Old towels: For muddy paws and wet Labs. They will find water.
Puppy-proofing your home
Get down at puppy height and look around. Anything within reach will be tasted.
- Tuck away electrical cords and phone chargers.
- Secure trash cans, especially in the kitchen and bathroom.
- Move shoes, socks, kids' toys and remote controls out of reach.
- Block stairs and rooms you don't want your puppy in with baby gates.
- Store medications, cleaners and chemicals up high or behind latched doors.
- Check that houseplants are safe for dogs.
- Keep human foods that are toxic to dogs, like chocolate, grapes, onions and xylitol, out of reach.
The yard
Walk your fence line and check for gaps or places a small puppy could squeeze through. Pick one potty spot close to the door and use it every time. Remove anything dangerous like fertilizer, mulch your puppy might eat, or standing water.
A fenced yard is helpful but not required. Many Labs thrive with regular leash walks and play.
Appointments to book
- Vet wellness visit: within the first few days home.
- Puppy class: look for one that starts after your vet approves.
- Pet insurance: if you plan to enroll, do it early.
For pickup day
- Crate or secure carrier for the car
- Towels and paper towels
- Collar and leash
- Water and a small bowl for long drives
- Your puppy's paperwork folder
What comes with your puppy
Every Archer Lodge puppy goes home with AKC registration, a microchip, deworming, their first set of shots, a toy and a blanket that smells like home. The parents' genetics and pedigree are available on request. See our pricing page for the full list.
A note on budgeting
Supplies for a new Lab usually cost a few hundred dollars up front, depending on the crate and brands you choose. Buy quality where it counts, like the crate, collar and food, and save on the rest.
Don't overbuy
It's easy to fill a shopping cart. You really only need the basics above to start. You'll learn what your puppy loves in the first few weeks, and you can add from there.
Next steps
Once your home is ready, read our guide to your Lab puppy's first week home. If you're still choosing a puppy, see our available puppies or call or text (919) 899-8917. We're happy to talk through anything on this list.