Steps to Bringing Puppy Home

When welcoming home a new puppy, having the right supplies on hand is very important. Some items to consider are puppy food,  food and water bowls,  waste bags and cleanup products, toys, a collar, leash, crate, a bed or bedding, puppy shampoo and appropriate grooming tools. You can find some of these items in our Recommended Products page. 

Consider booking the puppy's remaining vaccinations or wellness exam with a veterinarian and look into dog training options. 

 Entering a new home can be overwhelming for a puppy at first. To help with the transition to their new space, keep things fairly quiet at first and give them some time to explore their new home (under supervision). Provide a comfortable bed, size-appropriate crate, some toys and food and water bowls. 

Have a general idea of your feeding schedule, potty training and crate training plan before puppy comes home. Although some adjustments may need to be made, it's important to start puppy out with a consistent direction. 

 Just as you would “baby-proof” your home, you should “puppy-proof” it before bringing puppy home. A few things to consider are; keep windows and doors closed initially, don't leave your puppy unsupervised at first, keep poisonous chemicals or houseplants away, ensure food is stored out of reach, put away choking hazards and secure trash cans.     

It’s a good idea to introduce your puppy to other pets at a young age. If introducing to another dog, it is sometimes helpful to have both of them leashed and outside.  Sometimes puppies don’t understand yet the rules set in place by adult dogs. If the older dog becomes agitated, allow them to separate.    

 Because your puppy probably hasn’t received all their shots initially, they shouldn't interact with dogs outside your home.  They should also avoid walking where these other dogs walk. 

 Growing and learning is tiring, so let them rest regularly. Keep training and exercise sessions short and fun. Let their crate be their "den" and a safe place to rest and relax. 

Thinking about the first few days home with your puppy may sound complicated, but don't stress too much.  Enjoy your puppy and the pitter patter of their little paws.  Before you know it, they will be 70 pounds and still wanting to lay in your lap.