What to Expect When You Bring Home a Puppy?

What to Expect When You Bring Home a Puppy

Bringing home a puppy is one of the most exciting experiences a pet lover can have. But it's also a lot of work! From teaching your puppy potty training to helping him cope with separation anxiety, there is much to consider when bringing a puppy into your home. 

Check dog food and supplies from Amazon >>

In this blog post, we'll discuss what to expect when you get home a puppy, how to prepare for their arrival, how to handle the puppy's separation stress, how to potty train, and what food to give your puppy.

Preparing your home for a puppy

Ensuring your home is ready for puppy arrival is vital. Here are some tips on how to prepare your home for a new puppy: 

  1. Puppy-proofing: Puppies are curious creatures and can get into trouble if you don't take the time to puppy-proof your home. Put away any items that might be dangerous or off-limits to puppies, such as cleaning supplies, medications, electrical cords, and small objects that could be choking hazards. Also, make sure there are no plants or flowers in the house that may poison your pup.
  2. Comfort Items: Have a few items available to help make your puppy feel more at home, such as a bed, blankets, and chew toys. Place these items in the areas of your home where you'd like your puppy to spend most of their time, such as the living room or bedroom.
  3. Food & Water: Make plenty of food and water dishes available for your puppy. Use stainless steel dishes since they are easy to clean and won't break easily if knocked over by an excited pup!
  4. Crate Training: To help your puppy adjust to their new home, it's best to begin crate training immediately. Choose a crate large enough for your puppy to stand up, turn around and lie comfortably. Line the bottom with a soft blanket and leave a few chew toys. This will become their safe space, and they will appreciate having a place of their own. 
With these simple tips, you can ensure your home is prepared for the arrival of your new puppy!

Check dog food and supplies from Amazon >>

Dealing with separation anxiety

Separation anxiety is one of the most common issues that new puppy owners face. When puppies arrive in their new homes, they often experience extreme stress as they are suddenly taken away from the familiar environment they were born and raised in. 

This can manifest in excessive barking, whining, or howling, especially when left alone for the first time. Especially the first day and night can be very stressful for the puppy.

Fortunately, there are some simple steps you can take to help your puppy get over his separation anxiety. Here are a few tips:

  1. Don't Make a Big Deal Out of Leaving – When you leave the house, try to be as matter-of-fact as possible. Make sure to give your puppy plenty of love and attention before you go, but don't make a big show of saying goodbye or coddling him. That will only make it harder for him to adjust to you being away. Start this part of training with coming and going short terms in the beginning - go out, come in, go out and wait for a minute or two, etc. to get your puppy familiar with the idea you or other family members are leaving but always coming back.
  2. Establish a Routine – A consistent daily routine will help your puppy feel safe and secure. Feed him at the same time every day, take him out for walks at the same time each day, and provide ample playtime for him. That way, he'll know what to expect and won't be so stressed when you leave. 
  3. Crate Train – Crate training can help your puppy adjust to being left alone. Start by introducing him to the crate gradually and making it a comfortable place for him to spend time in. Once he's used to it, please keep him in the crate when you leave the house so that he feels safe and secure while you're gone. 
  4. Use Comfort Items – Comfort items such as soft blankets and toys can help your puppy cope with being away from you. Please give him a favorite toy or blanket to cuddle with when you're gone. He'll associate these items with your presence, which can help him relax and feel less anxious when you're away. 

These tips can help you manage your puppy's separation anxiety and make the transition into his new home much easier for both of you. With patience and consistency, your puppy should adjust quickly to his new environment and be ready for all the adventures!

Check dog food and supplies from Amazon >>

Potty Training Your Puppy

Potty training your puppy is vital to have a happy, healthy pup. Establishing good habits early on can help avoid behavioral issues in the future and make a living with a puppy much more manageable. Here are some tips for potty training your puppy: 

  1. Establish a Routine: Setting a routine for your puppy is essential for successful potty training. Take him outside to the same spot regularly (every hour to two hours) and encourage him to do his business there. Praise him when he does so, as positive reinforcement helps create good habits. 
  2. Take Him Out After Meals and Naps: Immediately after meals or naps, take your puppy outside to the designated potty spot. This will help him learn that this is where he needs to go when using the restroom. 
  3. Stay With Him: It's essential to stay with your puppy when he's outside so you can reward him when he successfully goes potty in the designated spot. Keep your voice quiet and relaxed, and never punish him if he doesn't go—try again later. 
  4. Clean Up Accidents Immediately: If your puppy has had an accident inside the house, clean it up immediately and take him out to the designated spot. This will help him understand the designated spot where he should use the bathroom. 

Following these steps can help ensure that potty training your puppy is successful and stress-free. With patience and consistency, your pup will soon be a potty pro!

Check dog food and supplies from Amazon >>

Feeding Your Puppy

Proper nutrition is one of the most important things you can do for your puppy. Feeding your puppy a high-quality, balanced diet designed for his age and breed is essential. Ask your veterinarian or breeder if you need help determining what food to feed your puppy.

Puppies need more frequent meals than adult dogs, so providing your pup with small meals throughout the day is essential. The number of meals per day will depend on your puppy's age; younger puppies may need to eat four or more times per day, while older puppies should eat thrice daily.

Be sure to measure your pup's food each time you feed him, as it's crucial to ensure he's getting the right amount of calories and nutrition to maintain a healthy weight. Most puppies will need around 350 calories per day, but this can vary depending on the size of your pup. 

You should also avoid giving your puppy human food, which can lead to nutritional imbalances or digestive problems. Instead, provide your pup with healthy treats specially formulated for puppies, such as freeze-dried liver treats or low-fat, low-salt snacks.

Once you've found the right food for your puppy, ensure he can access plenty of clean water. This will help keep him hydrated and help him digest his food correctly. 

Finally, stick to a regular feeding schedule and be consistent with meal times. This will help your puppy get used to a routine and know when to expect his next meal.

Check dog food and supplies from Amazon >>

Getting Your Puppy Used to His New Surroundings

It's vital to ensure your puppy feels comfortable in his new surroundings. Take the time to introduce him gradually to his new home, yard, and family. This can help minimize his stress and fear when adapting to a new environment. 

Remember especially that the first day and night can be very stressful for your puppy, and he can even howl or whine quite a much - you need to provide the safety and love that the puppy has lost from their mother and siblings.

Start by providing him with a comfortable sleeping area. A crate or other secure space is an excellent option for him to retreat when he feels overwhelmed. Place his bed and favorite toys inside this space, so he feels at ease. Also, only force him to stay in space briefly.

Introduce him to his new family and any other pets that live in the home. Let him explore the yard or nearby park if you have one. Give him plenty of opportunities to get used to the sights and sounds of his new home. 

Engage in activities with your puppy that involve positive reinforcement, such as basic commands and games. This will help him understand what is expected of him and build a strong bond with you. 

Your pup will eventually become comfortable with his new surroundings with patience and dedication. When he does, he can move freely around your home, yard, and neighborhood, providing endless hours of enjoyment for you and your pup.

Check dog food and supplies from Amazon >>


Johan Blom

Blogger who urges to discover exciting and beautiful things in the world and life!

Previous Post Next Post

Contact Form