How to Handle Your New Puppy’s First Night With You

Bringing a new puppy home for the first night is a joyous yet delicate moment. It can be overwhelming for both you and your puppy, so preparation and thoughtful care are vital. This guide shares ten key steps to help your puppy feel safe and loved while setting positive habits from the beginning.

1. Prepare a Comfortable Sleeping Space

Before your puppy arrives, create a cosy sleeping area. A crate lined with soft blankets can mimic a den, offering security and comfort. Place the crate in your bedroom, so your puppy senses your presence without feeling alone. Covering the crate lightly can enhance the den-like atmosphere.

2. Gather Necessary Supplies

Have all essentials ready: food, water bowls, bedding, and some familiar toys. Using toys your puppy recognises can provide reassurance. Keep fresh water available but consider removing it a few hours before bedtime to reduce night-time accidents.

3. Maintain Familiar Feeding Routines

Stick to the diet your puppy has been used to at the breeder's home. Avoid changing food on the first day to prevent stomach upsets. Feed at the usual times, and understand that your puppy might be a little reluctant to eat due to stress, but gently encourage them without forcing.

4. Bond and Play to Tire Them Out

Spend quality time playing gently, cuddling, and giving treats. This builds trust and affection. Engage your puppy in play to help expend energy so they will be ready to settle down at night. Avoid overexciting them close to bedtime.

5. Offer Breathing Space When Needed

Your puppy may need moments alone to process their new environment without feeling overwhelmed. Allow them quiet time in their safe space to relax, helping them to gain confidence in their new surroundings.

6. Establish a Potty Routine Early

Set up a regular schedule for taking your puppy outside to toilet, especially after feeding, playing, or sleeping. Use a consistent phrase, such as "go potty", to encourage them. If your puppy isn’t yet trained to go outside reliably, prepare puppy pads indoors as an interim measure.

7. Monitor Your Puppy Closely

Even with puppy-proofing, keep a watchful eye on your new arrival. Quiet moments might mean sleeping or potential mischief. Prevent your puppy from chewing furniture, getting into unsafe areas, or toileting indoors in unwanted spots.

8. Introduce Other Pets Gradually

If you have existing pets, especially cats, keep them separated initially and introduce them slowly over several days. For existing dogs, supervised meetings allow for gentle sniffing and familiarisation, easing the transition for all pets involved.

9. Respond to Night-Time Whining Appropriately

Some whining or crying is normal during the first night. Rather than rushing to pick up your puppy every time, take them out quietly to toilet if needed, then return them calmly to their crate. This approach helps them settle and learn independence without feeling abandoned.

10. Consistency is Key

Establishing a reliable routine from the first night helps your puppy adjust faster. Consistent feeding, toileting, and sleeping times provide structure and reassurance, building the foundation for good behaviour in future.

Following these steps thoughtfully ensures a warm, safe, and structured first night for your new puppy. With patience and love, you’ll create lasting bonds and set a positive path for your life together.