Bringing puppy Home

Bringing Home Your Puppy: What to Do on Day One and Beyond

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an unforgettable moment—equal parts joy, excitement, and a little chaos. Whether you're a first-time dog parent or bringing home your next companion, setting the stage for success starts from day one. Here's what to do when your puppy comes home to help them feel safe, secure, and start learning the ropes of their new world.

1. Set Up a Safe, Calm Space

Before your puppy arrives, prepare a designated area where they can rest and feel secure. This might be a crate, a puppy pen, or a cozy corner in your home. Make sure it’s quiet, away from heavy foot traffic, and equipped with a comfy bed, water, and a few toys. Puppies need a lot of rest—up to 18–20 hours a day—so give them a peaceful place to unwind.

2. Start a Routine Right Away

Dogs thrive on consistency, and establishing a predictable routine helps your puppy settle in faster. Feed them at the same times each day, and build a regular schedule for potty breaks, naps, playtime, and training. A consistent routine builds trust and reduces anxiety.

3. Potty Training: Be Patient and Proactive

Take your puppy outside frequently—right after eating, drinking, waking up, and playing. Use a consistent spot and a cue like “go potty.” Praise and reward immediately after they go. Accidents are normal, especially early on. Never punish—just clean up and stay consistent.

4. Keep It Low-Key at First

While it’s tempting to invite friends and family over to meet your new pup, give them a few days to adjust to their new environment first. Too much excitement early on can overwhelm them. Let them explore at their own pace, and focus on bonding quietly.

5. Begin Gentle Training Early

Training doesn’t have to wait. You can start with simple, positive-reinforcement-based lessons like name recognition, “sit,” or “come.” Keep sessions short (2–5 minutes), fun, and reward with treats, praise, or play. Early training builds confidence and trust.

6. Introduce the Crate as a Safe Haven

If you plan to crate train, introduce it slowly and positively. Let your puppy explore the crate with the door open, toss in treats, and feed meals inside. Never use it as punishment—it should feel like a safe, relaxing retreat.

7. Schedule a Vet Visit

Ideally, your puppy should visit a vet within the first few days for a wellness check and to stay on track with vaccinations and deworming. Bring any health records the breeder or shelter provided.

8. Puppy-Proof Your Home

Just like toddlers, puppies get into everything! Remove small objects, secure cords, block off unsafe areas, and keep cleaning supplies or houseplants out of reach. Keep shoes, remotes, and other chew-worthy items tucked away.

9. Begin Socialization (Gently)

While full-blown outings should wait until vaccinations are complete, early socialization is still key. Let your puppy see and hear new sights and sounds from a safe distance—different people, vacuum cleaners, gentle handling, car rides. Always pair new experiences with something positive.

10. Give Yourself (and Your Puppy) Grace

Puppies are learning everything from scratch, and so are you. There will be messes, sleepless nights, and probably a few chewed-up things. But with patience, consistency, and love, your pup will grow into a well-mannered, loving companion.

Final Thought: The First Days Matter Those early days set the foundation for your puppy’s future behavior, trust, and confidence. Stay calm, stick to a routine, and focus on building a strong relationship. The more you invest now, the easier the road ahead will be.

Need help creating a puppy training plan? Reach out to Larry Benoit Dog Trainer for expert guidance and personalized support.