Tips on Bringing Home A Puppy

Written By Jessica Denyer

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting, joyful milestone—but it can also feel overwhelming. Those first days set the tone for your puppy’s confidence, behavior, and sense of security. With a little preparation and a calm approach, you can help your puppy transition smoothly into their new forever home.

Here are the essential first steps to take when bringing a new puppy home.

1. Prepare Your Home Before Arrival

Before your puppy ever steps through the door, make sure your home is ready.

Puppy-proof your space:

  • Remove electrical cords, small objects, shoes, and anything chewable

  • Secure trash cans and cabinets

  • Block off unsafe areas with baby gates

Gather essentials ahead of time:

  • Food (ask the breeder what they’re currently eating - we feed Diamond Naturals Puppy here at TCH)

  • Food and water bowls

  • Crate and/or puppy bed

  • Collar or harness and leash

  • Toys (especially chew toys)

  • Puppy pads or supplies for outdoor potty training

Having everything ready helps you focus on bonding instead of scrambling for supplies.

2. Keep the First Day Calm and Simple

It’s tempting to invite friends over or take your puppy everywhere—but less is more at first.

Your puppy has just experienced a huge change: leaving their mother, littermates, and familiar surroundings. A quiet, peaceful first day helps them feel safe.

  • Limit visitors

  • Keep voices calm and gentle

  • Allow plenty of rest

  • Avoid overwhelming introductions

Let your puppy explore their new home at their own pace.

3. Introduce One Space at a Time

Rather than giving your puppy free roam of the entire house, start small.

  • Choose one main area for play and bonding

  • Gradually introduce new rooms over the next few days

  • Always supervise exploration

This helps prevent accidents and builds your puppy’s confidence without overstimulation.

4. Start a Routine Right Away

Puppies thrive on routine. Establishing one early helps with potty training, sleep, and behavior.

Try to keep consistent times for:

  • Meals

  • Potty breaks

  • Playtime

  • Naps

  • Bedtime

Even if the schedule isn’t perfect, consistency helps your puppy understand what to expect.

5. Begin Potty Training Immediately

Potty training starts the moment your puppy comes home.

  • Take your puppy out frequently (after waking, eating, playing, and every 1–2 hours)

  • Use the same potty spot each time

  • Praise generously when they go in the right place

  • Expect accidents—they’re part of the process

Patience and consistency are key. Your puppy is learning, not being stubborn.

6. Introduce the Crate as a Safe Space

When introduced properly, a crate becomes a cozy den—not a punishment.

  • Keep the crate in a quiet but connected area of the home

  • Add soft bedding and a safe chew toy

  • Leave the door open at first

  • Use treats and praise to create positive associations

Crate training helps with potty training, safety, and teaching your puppy how to settle.

7. Focus on Bonding and Trust

The first few days are about relationship, not perfection.

  • Sit on the floor and let your puppy come to you

  • Use gentle touch and soft praise

  • Learn your puppy’s cues and personality

  • Keep training light and positive

Trust is built through calm presence and consistency.

8. Schedule a Vet Visit

Even if your puppy has already seen a vet, it’s important to establish care with your own veterinarian.

At your first visit, your vet will:

  • Check overall health

  • Review vaccination schedule

  • Discuss feeding and growth

  • Answer questions about training, sleep, and behavior

This visit gives peace of mind and ensures your puppy gets the best start.

9. Be Patient With the Adjustment Period

Some puppies settle in quickly, while others take time.

You may notice:

  • Whining at night

  • Hesitation to eat

  • Accidents indoors

  • Clinginess or shyness

All of this is normal. Love, routine, and reassurance go a long way.

Final Thoughts

Bringing a new puppy home is the beginning of a beautiful journey. Those first steps—preparation, patience, and gentle guidance—lay the foundation for a confident, happy dog.

Slow down, soak in the snuggles, and remember: you don’t have to do everything perfectly. You just have to show up with love.

Your puppy is lucky to have you.

Jessica Denyer
Next

7 Reasons Goldendoodles are the best dogs