New Puppy Essentials: What I Actually Use with My Bernese

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Eighteen years since our last puppy, and we had genuinely forgotten everything a puppy needs to thrive. Our Bernese Mountain Dog Tessie arrived and immediately reminded us. She is completely irresistible, and she requires constant love, attention, and a rotation of toys to keep her out of trouble and away from our shoes.

With Berners, there is an extra layer of consideration. They are known for sensitive stomachs, so we were intentional about finding toys and chews that are stimulating without being risky. We wanted things that would help with puppy biting, hold up to an aggressive chewer, and be safe enough that we did not have to hover every time she settled in with something.

After hours of research and months of hands-on testing with our Berner pup, this new puppy essentials list covers everything from teething toys to grooming gear, the picks we actually stand behind.

The Gooderie’s Top Puppy Essentials

BEST FOR TEETHING

Nylabone Puppy Pacifier Teething Toy

One of our pup’s first and most used toy during the early teething weeks. The massaging nubs soothe sore gums and the bacon flavor keeps her coming back to it instead of your shoes. Designed for puppies up to 25 lbs so grab it early.

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BEST OVERALL TOY

KONG Classic Stuffable Dog Toy

Every dog owner eventually ends up here and for good reason. Stuff it with peanut butter, freeze it overnight, and buy yourself 20 quiet minutes. Tessie has had hers since week one and it still looks brand new. The most versatile toy on this entire list.

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BEST FOR AGGRESSIVE CHEWERS

KONG Armor Bone Triple-Layered Dog Toy

The ratings on this one look rough but do not let that stop you. Our pup has put this through serious testing and it holds up better than anything else we have tried for an aggressive chewer. Triple-layered fabric with a squeaker inside. A personal pick I stand behind even when the numbers do not.

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BEST SOFT TOY

Letalong Squeaky Plush Toy Soft Stuffed Ball

The soft toy our pup actually carries around rather than destroys. The crinkle texture and built-in bell keep her interested and the straps are satisfying for a puppy who needs something to mouth. A gentler option for calmer play sessions.

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HERO MOM PICK

WOOF BullySafe Bully Stick Holder

The product I did not know I needed. After doing some major research into the best bully sticks for our new puppy, I learned they can easily choke on the ends of the bone. This holder keeps the chew secure so your dog gets the full benefit without the choking risk. Our pup loves it so much, she chews on it even without a bully stick.

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Puppy Toys That Actually Get Used

A puppy without enough toys will find her own, usually your favorite pair of sneakers. These are the toys that will keep your puppy busy, mentally stimulated, and away from everything she is not supposed to have.

New Puppy Must Haves for Everyday Life

Beyond the toys, these are the everyday essentials that make life with a new puppy actually manageable. From grooming and health to gear and training, every product on this list has earned a permanent spot in our routine.

Grooming

Berners shed. A lot. Starting a grooming routine early makes it significantly easier as they grow. These are the tools that actually work.

Health and Nutrition

The supplements and treats that support a healthy puppy from the inside out. Dental health and joint support are worth starting early, especially for a large breed.

Gear and Training

The practical gear that makes walks, car rides, and training sessions easier. A good harness and a reliable car cover are non-negotiable for a large breed puppy who is still learning boundaries.

Home Essentials

The home basics that make living with a new puppy cleaner, quieter, and more comfortable for everyone in the house.

New Puppy Survival Tricks

The extras that make new puppy life a little easier and a lot more manageable.

Freeze the KONG. Stuff with peanut butter or plain yogurt and freeze overnight. A frozen KONG buys 20 to 30 quiet minutes and soothes teething gums at the same time. Make several at once and keep them in the freezer. We used this method to help train her to stay home alone. She associated us leaving as a good thing because she’ll get a KONG treat. Eventually, we could leave without missing a beat.

Start the grooming routine early. Tessie lets me brush her without a fight because we started the moment she came home. A few minutes every day early on means a much easier experience as they grow into a full coat.

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Stephanie

Stephanie is the founder of The Gooderie and a 17-year ecommerce, marketing, and SEO expert. After nearly two decades analyzing retail data and pricing algorithms behind the scenes, she decided to branch out to turn her lifelong passion for hunting down high-quality products and uncovering genuine deals into a real consumer resource. Today, she uses her industry insider knowledge to help everyday families cut through the marketing noise, avoid pricing traps, and live a beautifully organized life.

New Puppy Essentials: What I Actually Use with My Bernese Mountain Dog