Everything you need to know before bringing your puppy home and through the first seven days.
The day I brought home my first puppy, I was excited-but I was also nervous. I wondered whether I had everything I needed and was ready for such a big responsibility. I also had no idea where to begin and just went for it blindly. If you’re bringing home a puppy for the first time, you’re probably feeling the same way. This guide will walk you through what to expect during your puppy’s first week.
Before you Bring Your Puppy Home:
Before moving on to Day 1, download my free Puppy Essentials Checklist to make sure you have everything ready before bringing your new best friend home.
Puppy Proof Your Home:
After gathering everything on your puppy shopping checklist, take a walk through your home and look at it from your puppy’s perspective. Puppies are curious and love to explore with their mouths, so now is the perfect time to puppy-proof your home. Put away anything you don’t want your puppy chewing on, such as electrical cords, shoes, cleaning supplies, or anything small they could swallow.
Next, decide where your puppy’s space will be. Set up their crate or kennel in a quiet area where they can rest and feel safe. Place their bed, toys, food and water bowls, and a few comfort items nearby. Having everything ready before your puppy comes home will help you both settle into your new routine much more easily.
Vet Tech Tip:
Keep a notebook or use your phone to write down how much your puppy eats, drinks, and goes potty during the first week. These notes can be very helpful if you need to talk with your veterinarian about your puppy’s health or routine.
Set up Your Puppy’s Space:
Before bringing your puppy home, choose a quiet area where they can feel safe and comfortable. This space should include their crate or kennel, a cozy bed or blanket, food and water bowls, and a few toys.
Keeping everything in one place helps your puppy adjust to their new home and gives them a space where they can rest when they feel tired or overwhelmed. As they become more comfortable, they’ll naturally begin exploring the rest of your home.
Pet Student Tip:
Choose a crate that’s the right size for your puppy, or use a divider if they’re still growing. A crate that’s too large can make potty training more difficult.
Your First Vet Visit:
Before your puppy comes home, it’s a good idea to find a veterinarian if you haven’t already. Many clinics book appointments several days in advance, so scheduling early means you’ll have a checkup ready if your puppy needs one. Your veterinarian can answer questions, review vaccination records, and help you create a plan for keeping your puppy healthy.
Pet Student Tip:
Keep your breeder’s or shelter’s paperwork in one folder. Bring vaccination records, medical history, and any questions you have to your puppy’s first appointment.
Get Ready for the First Night
The first night with your puppy may not go exactly as you imagine, and that’s completely normal. Your puppy has just left everything they’ve known, so they may feel nervous, lonely, or confused. Try to stay patient and give them plenty of reassurance.
Have their sleeping area ready with a cozy bed or crate, fresh water, and a favorite toy or blanket if they have one. Stick to a calm evening routine, avoid too much excitement, and give your puppy time to settle in before bedtime.
Pet Student Tip:
Don’t expect a perfect night’s sleep. Many puppies will cry or wake up during the night at first. Staying calm, offering comfort, and taking them outside for potty breaks when needed will help them adjust much faster.
Coming Next: Day 1- Bringing Your Puppy Home
We’ll cover the car ride home, introducing your puppy to their new space, the first potty break, meals, and making their first day as stress-free as possible.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Before Bringing Your Puppy Home:
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of bringing home a new puppy, but a little preparation goes a long way. Avoid buying too many toys at first, changing foods immediately, or leaving your puppy alone for long periods on the first day. Keeping things simple and sticking to a routine will help your puppy feel more secure.
Remember, Every Puppy is Different:
Every puppy adjusts at their own pace. Some puppies will walk into their new home full of confidence, while others may be shy or nervous. Don’t compare your puppy to someone else’s. Give them time, be patient, and celebrate the little victories.
Before you leave to Pick Up Your Puppy:
Before heading out, double-check that you have everything you’ll need. Bring a leash, collar, a few paper towels for accidents, a small bowl and water, and any paperwork from the breeder or shelter. If someone is going with you, one person can drive while the other helps keep the puppy calm.
Bringing home a puppy is the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. There will be exciting moments, challenging moments, and plenty of memories along the way. The preparation you do today will make tomorrow much smoother for both you and your new best friend.
Thank you for reading with me! I’d love to hear more from you. Every puppy owner’s journey is different.
What advice would you give someone bringing home their first puppy? Is there a puppy topic you’d like me to cover next? Leave your ideas in the comments-I may feature them in a future article.
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