What to Expect the Day Your Puppy Comes Home

Designate an area for your pup’s food and water. It’s a good idea to establish a mealtime schedule, but that’s asking a lot from your puppy on their first day home. Instead, lead them over to their food dish. Some puppies will delve right in, but if your pooch is stressed out by their new environment, they may not eat right away. Hand feeding is a great way to not only calm their nerves, but also bond with them. When hand feeding, only give your pup food if they are sitting still and looking at you. Don’t reward barking or jumping. The shelter or breeder should have given you some of the food your puppy has been eating. Use this food on the first day. If you plan on changing to a different brand, transition gradually so your puppy doesn’t get an upset stomach.

Potty training should start right off the bat. If you are lucky, the breeder or previous owner already began the process. Some puppies are introduced to pee pads at an early age, which can make your job easier. Regardless of what training your puppy has had, take them outside as soon as you arrive home. If they relieve themselves, don’t skimp on the praise. Let them know what a good pup they are! When it’s time to go inside, make sure your furball is constantly supervised. Puppy bladders aren’t very big, so take them outside every couple hours, and right after they eat. There are various potty training methods. You can use pee pads, a bell by the back door, or even crate training. Do your research and decide what works best for your situation. Your pup is bound to have an accident or two, but stay pawsitive and keep up the good work.

Just a head’s up, the first night with your new puppy won’t be smooth sailing. After all, they are used to snuggling up to their dog mama and littermates. Expect to hear a wide array of yelps, whines, and maybe a howl or two. It may be tempting to put your pup far away, like in a basement, so you can get some sleep. But this only makes them feel more isolated. Your little one should have a crate with some cozy blankets. Place the crate in your bedroom or just outside your room with the door open. This way your puppy knows someone is nearby. Unfurtunately, there is no way to avoid their initial crying. But your pup should eventually calm down and go to sleep. Their tiny bladder can’t last long, so a yelp in the middle of the night probably means they need a bathroom break. Don't worry, pretty soon both of you will be sleeping soundly through the night!