Bringing a new puppy home is such an awesome and heartwarming adventure! But, between all the cute cuddles and those crazy zoomies, there’s a lot to figure out. Whether you’re a newbie dog parent or it’s been ages since you’ve had a pup around, feeling a bit overwhelmed is totally normal.

The trick is to keep things simple, be consistent, and take it slow. Here’s your puppy beginner’s guide to kickstart your pup’s journey!

* This page contains affiliate links. As an Affiliate & Amazon Affiliate, I earn small commissions from qualified purchases.

Puppy-Proofing: Keep little chewers safe!

Puppies are naturally curious and will chew, tug, and nibble their way through anything they can reach. Get down on their level and look for potential dangers. Check for dangling cords. Look for small objects they can swallow. Identify toxic plants, cleaning products, or loose wires. Think of it like toddler-proofing, only with sharper teeth. Create a designated puppy-safe area with a crate, comfy bed, and toys, where they can rest and feel secure when unsupervised.

Routine: Create You & Your Pup’s Daily Flow

Dogs love a good routine. Kicking things off early makes a huge difference. This is true whether it’s potty training or just building a bond. Make sure you’ve got set times for feeding, potty breaks, walks, and playtime. Crate training can be super useful too, helping your pup feel secure while also learning to be independent. It might take a few days (or weeks) to really get into the groove, but trust me, sticking to a routine will be worth it in the end!

Does my puppy need training and socialization?

Yes, they need both. And, don’t wait to get your pup out and about! The best time to socialize them is when they’re between 8 and 16 weeks old. Make sure to introduce them gradually and in a fun way to new people, places, sounds, and furry friends.

You can also kick off some basic training. Start with basic commands, such as sit, stay, come, and how to behave properly on a leash. Keep sessions short and playful, as puppies don’t have much of an attention span. And be sure to keep it all positive with treats, lots of praise, and tons of love. Keep in mind that every time your puppy meets someone or something new is an opportunity for training and growth!

If training is harder than you anticipated, consider a puppy training class. A lot of places offer free or inexpensive puppy group training classes. These include Petco, Petsmart, or your local Humane Society. They should, at least, have a list of good puppy training class recommendations.

Bonus Tip: Find Your Pup Support Team

A kind and caring vet, a reliable dog trainer, a friendly groomer, and a bunch of fellow dog lovers (whether online or in-person) can make your puppy adventure much easier. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, take some advice, or share your struggles—because every puppy parent has been through it!

Bringing home a puppy means welcoming a new family member, complete with all the joys and growing pains. Start small, stay present, and savor the moments.Puppyhood flies by so much faster than you think it will.

How do I prepare for bringing a puppy home?

Be sure you’re ready for your puppy before bringing them home. You don’t want to drive home with your new puppy, get there and realize they have no food, bed, or toys. What a puppy needs most when arrive at their new home is comfort, so be sure you, at least, have the basics set up for them. Not only will the introduction and transition be easier for them, but it will be a lot easier for you, as well.

Good luck on this amazing journey, and congratulations on your new, fluffy little family member!

Health & Vet Care:
Schedule the first vet visit. Consider a vaccination schedule. Research pet insurance. Find a local emergency vet and write down their phone and address information.