Congratulations on becoming a new puppy parent! Whether your furry friend is an 8-week or 12-week-old pup, the first week together is an exciting and sometimes overwhelming time. When we brought home our playful F1b Cockapoo puppy, Baxter, and our cuddly F1 Cockapoo puppy, Teddy, we learned firsthand the importance of a smooth transition. This science-backed guide will provide you with valuable insights and tips to make the first week with your puppy a memorable and positive experience.
1. Puppy-Proof Your Home
Before your puppy arrives, it's crucial to puppy-proof your home to prevent accidents and injuries. Remember, puppies are curious and may explore areas they shouldn't. Here are some essential steps:
- Start small: Introduce your puppy to only a small section of your home at first. This will help them feel less overwhelmed and make it easier to supervise them. Gradually expand their access to other areas as they become more comfortable.
- Remove hazards: Keep small objects, cords, and toxic substances out of reach.
- Secure furniture: Prevent your puppy from tipping over furniture or getting stuck in tight spaces.
- Install gates: Use baby gates to restrict your puppy's access to certain areas.
2. Create a Comfortable Space
Your puppy will need a safe and comfortable space to call their own. Set up a designated area in a quiet part of your home with a soft bed, toys, and fresh water. This will help your puppy feel secure and relaxed.
Tip: When we brought home Baxter, we found a playpen to be invaluable. It provided a contained space where he could feel safe and explore at his own pace. We placed a small bed inside the playpen and covered the rest of the area with puppy pee pads to catch any accidents. This helped us to keep Baxter safe and tidy while he was adjusting to his new home.
3. Establish a Routine
Puppies thrive on routine, so it's important to establish a consistent schedule from the beginning. This includes feeding times, potty breaks, playtime, and training sessions. A routine will help your puppy feel more secure and understand your expectations.
4. Socialisation and Training
Socialisation is essential for your puppy's development. Expose your puppy to a variety of people, dogs, and environments to help them become well-adjusted. Start with short, positive interactions and gradually increase the exposure as your puppy becomes more comfortable.
Basic training should also begin early. Teach your puppy simple commands like "sit," "stay," and "come." Positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats and praise, are highly effective in training puppies.
Recommended Training Treats
Here are some recommendations for training treats that are grain-free and made with high-quality ingredients:
- Freshbakes® Grain-Free Dog Training Treats - Chicken Liver
- Chicken Nibbles with Salmon Puppy Treats
- Chicken with Turkey Nibbles Puppy Treats
Remember, treats should be given sparingly during training sessions.
5. Potty Training
Potty training can be a challenge, but with consistency and patience, you can achieve success. Take your puppy outside frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. Reward your puppy for eliminating outside and be patient if accidents happen.
6. Feeding and Hydration
Follow your veterinarian's recommendations for feeding your puppy. Provide high-quality puppy food and ensure access to fresh water at all times. Avoid overfeeding, as it can lead to obesity.
7. Veterinary Care
Schedule a visit with your veterinarian within the first week of bringing your puppy home. This will allow you to discuss any concerns, get your puppy vaccinated, and receive essential advice on care.
8. Rest and Bonding
Remember to take time to rest and bond with your new puppy. The first week can be tiring, so don't hesitate to ask for help from friends or family. Enjoy quality time together and create lasting memories.
9. Familiarise Your Puppy with a Familiar Scent
One way to help your puppy feel more comfortable in their new home is to bring along a toy or blanket that smells like their mother from the breeder. The familiar scent can provide comfort and security for your puppy during the transition. To use a familiar scent effectively, place the toy in your puppy's bed, rub it on yourself, or incorporate it into playtime.
Conclusion
Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting adventure, but it can also be challenging. Remember that this puppy phase, while demanding at times, is truly a special period. It goes by so quickly, and in a year's time, you'll be sitting on the sofa, fondly remembering your dog's adorable puppy face, that cute smile, and all those quirky little habits. Cherish every moment, and enjoy the joy and companionship that your new furry friend brings into your life.
References
- American Kennel Club (AKC): https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/puppy-information/
- The Humane Society of the United States: https://www.humanesociety.org/
- ASPCA: https://www.aspca.org/
- Veterinary Centers of America: https://vcahospitals.com/
- Pet Rebellion: https://petrebellion.co.uk