New Puppy Checklist UK (2026 Guide) – Costs, Vaccines & Insurance
- Gemma Chisholm
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Bringing home a puppy is exciting. It’s also expensive — and often more complicated than new owners expect.
From vaccinations and microchipping to emergency vet bills and insurance decisions, the first year can cost £1,000–£3,000+ depending on breed and health.
If you’re preparing for a new puppy in the UK, this guide will walk you through:
✔ First year costs
✔ Vaccination schedule
✔ Legal requirements
✔ Essential equipment
✔ When to arrange pet insurance
And you can download our free printable Puppy Starter Guide below.
How Much Does a Puppy Cost in the UK?
Beyond the purchase price, most owners should budget for:
Expense | Typical UK Cost |
Initial vaccinations | £60–£100 |
Microchipping (legal requirement) | £10–£30 |
Neutering | £150–£300 |
Flea & worm treatments (annual) | £80–£150 |
Food (annual) | £300–£600 |
Emergency treatment | £1,000–£5,000+ |
Unexpected vet bills are where costs escalate quickly.
Common emergency claims in the UK include:
Swallowed objects
Broken legs
Gastro issues
Allergies
Infections
Which is why many owners arrange insurance early.
UK Puppy Vaccination Timeline
Most puppies will need:
8 weeks – First vaccination1
0–12 weeks – Second vaccination
Annually – Booster
Always confirm your vet’s specific schedule.
Until vaccinations are complete, avoid public parks and areas where unvaccinated dogs may have been.
Legal Requirements for UK Dog Owners
In the UK, you must:
Microchip your dog by 8 weeks old
Keep your contact details updated
Ensure your dog wears ID in public
Failure to comply can result in fines.
When Should You Get Pet Insurance?
The simple answer: before problems arise.
Most UK pet insurance providers do not cover pre-existing conditions.
That means if your puppy develops:
A skin condition
Joint problems
Digestive issues
…before you take out cover, it may never be included.
Taking out cover early protects you from:
Unexpected £2,000+ vet bills
Ongoing treatment costs
Financial stress during emergencies
You can compare UK pet insurance options through Coverpal to see policies, cover levels and excess options side by side.
Free Puppy Starter Guide (Printable)
To make things easier, we’ve created a free UK Puppy Starter Guide.
Smart Puppy Planning = Lower Stress & Lower Costs
The first year sets the tone for your dog’s health and your finances.
Planning ahead helps you:
Avoid unnecessary spending
Prepare for emergencies
Choose the right level of cover
Budget properly
If you’re bringing home a puppy soon, download the guide and compare pet insurance options early — before exclusions become an issue.
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