Before your new dog arrives

Stock up on the right supplies.

Buy some of the basics ahead of time, so you both and your dog can settle in without too many mad dashes to the store. Here's what you'll need:

• crate
• food and water bowls
• Food and maybe some treats for training. Try to get the same food your dog's been easy since a sudden switch in diet can upset his stomach.
• collar and leash
• bed
• toys, especially chew toys
• stain- and odor-removing cleaners
• possibly some baby gates to block off sections of your house

Prepare your house.

This requires a little more work if you're getting a puppy, since they can be champion chewers and have a knack for getting into things they shouldn't. But no matter what your dog's age, you'll want to do some organizing ahead of time.

Create a temporary, gated-off living space for your dog or pup, where she can't damage your belongings or eat something that will make her sick. She'll stay in this area whenever you're not with her to prevent her from having house training accidents. Pick a room that's a center of activity in your household, so your dog won't feel isolated, and be sure it's one with easy-to-clean floors. The kitchen is often a good choice; you can block it off with baby gates if needed. Make sure you remove anything that you don't want chewed on or soiled. What's in your dog's area will vary a bit depending on her age and how you're house training.

Puppy-proof to make sure anything that could hurt your dog-medicines, chemicals, certain plants-is out of reach.

Plan the trip home.

Find a helper to come along when you go to pick up your dog. Young puppies who've never been on a car ride before may get rattled. Ask someone to sit next to your dog on the ride home, soothing him and keeping him from hopping into your lap while you're driving. If your dog's used to a crate, you can stash him in the crate for the ride home. Just make sure it's secured; sliding around the backseat will make the drive more stressful.