Bringing a puppy home is one of the best kinds of chaos. A little planning ahead makes the first week much smoother — for you and for them.
Before your puppy arrives
- Food and water bowls — non-slip, easy to clean.
- Puppy-appropriate food — ask your breeder, shelter, or vet what the puppy is already eating, and transition slowly if you plan to switch.
- A crate or safe sleeping space, sized for comfort, not a full-grown dog (too much room can slow down crate training).
- A collar, ID tag, and leash.
- Puppy pads or a designated potty area, depending on your training plan.
- Chew-safe toys — puppies chew everything, so give them approved outlets before they choose your furniture.
Puppy-proofing your home
Get down to your puppy's eye level and look for:
- Loose cables and cords they could chew
- Small objects that are a choking hazard
- Household plants that are toxic to dogs
- Trash cans and food left within reach
- Gaps under furniture or fences they could squeeze through
The first vet visit
Schedule a check-up in the first week if you don't already have vaccination and deworming records from a breeder or shelter. A vet will confirm your puppy's overall health, set up a vaccination schedule, and answer any early questions. You can find a vet near you on Pawly to get started.
Setting up a routine early
Puppies do best with consistency:
- Feeding times — 3–4 times a day for young puppies, tapering as they grow.
- Potty breaks — after waking up, after meals, and every couple of hours.
- Short training sessions — 5 minutes at a time, focused on one command.
- Plenty of rest — puppies sleep 18–20 hours a day; don't over-schedule them.
What to expect in the first week
Some anxiety, some accidents, and some sleepless nights are normal. Give your puppy time to settle in, keep introductions to new people and pets calm and gradual, and don't expect perfect house-training right away.
If anything about your puppy's health or behavior concerns you — unusual lethargy, vomiting, or not eating — don't wait it out. A vet visit early is always better than a guess.