10 Essential Steps When You First Get Your New Puppy

Bringing a new puppy into your home is both a joyous and momentous occasion. Watching them grow, learn, and form their unique personality can be incredibly rewarding. Yet, this transition can be daunting for the puppy and their new family. It's essential to approach these early days with thoughtful preparation and care to ensure a smooth adjustment.

Below, we outline ten crucial things to do immediately after bringing your new puppy home, designed to promote their wellbeing, comfort, and positive development from the very start.

1. Provide a Quiet, Safe Space

Puppies can quickly become overwhelmed by all the new sights and sounds in a new environment. It's important to create a calm, quiet space for them to retreat to and recharge. Set up a comfortable bed or crate in a low-traffic area where your puppy can sleep and feel secure. This dedicated space will become their safe haven as they settle in.

2. Avoid Sudden Food Changes

Although you might be eager to feed your puppy your chosen brand, it’s best to maintain their current diet initially. Abrupt changes can cause digestive upset. Instead, gradually introduce new food over a week or so once they have started to settle. This approach supports their gut health and dietary transition.

3. Choose and Use Their Name Early

Whether you picked a name beforehand or decide after meeting your puppy, it's important to start using their name consistently within the first few days. Regularly saying their name during feeding, play, and gentle training helps them learn it quickly and strengthens your bond.

4. Establish a Routine Right Away

Dogs thrive on routine, so begin setting consistent times for feeding, toilet breaks, sleep, and exercise from day one. A reliable and predictable schedule helps your puppy understand expectations and feel more secure during this period of change.

5. Begin Toilet Training Immediately

Start toilet training as soon as your puppy arrives home. Take them outside frequently—especially after meals, naps, and play sessions—and reward them for toileting in the correct spot. Remember that accidents are part of the learning process; respond calmly and patiently.

6. Make Their First Night Comfortable

The first night can be particularly hard for a puppy being away from their dam and littermates for the first time. Decide if your puppy will sleep in your bedroom or in their own space and be consistent. Consider using a ticking clock or a warm water bottle wrapped in a towel to mimic the presence of their siblings and help soothe them.

7. Limit Visitors Early On

While friends and family may be eager to meet the new addition, limit visitors for at least the first two weeks. This allows your puppy to adjust without added stress from constant new faces and distractions.

8. Insure Your Puppy Promptly

Arrange pet insurance before or as soon as you bring your puppy home. Early coverage ensures you’re prepared in case of unexpected illness or accidents, which can be costly without insurance.

9. Ensure Microchipping Compliance

It’s now a legal requirement in the UK for all dogs to be microchipped. Breeders will usually have this done, but check and confirm. If your puppy isn’t chipped, arrange it promptly. Update the microchip details to your contact information, and share them with your vet.

10. Schedule a Health Check and Vaccinations

Book a veterinary appointment early to check your puppy’s health and to arrange vaccinations, worming, and flea control if needed. Your vet is an excellent source of advice about nutrition, neutering, training, and general care. Remember to keep your puppy indoors and away from unvaccinated dogs for a week after vaccination to protect their health.

By following these ten essential steps, you’ll provide your new puppy with a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow, thrive, and forge a wonderful lifelong bond with you.

For those considering where to find reliable puppies, it’s recommended to choose reputable breeders or adoption centres to promote responsible pet ownership and ensure the best start for your new friend.