Bringing a New Puppy Home: Six Tips for Success
Bringing a New Puppy Home: Six Tips for Success
Bringing a new puppy home is an amazing experience filled with boundless joy and excitement. However, it's also a time of significant adjustment, both for you and your furry friend. The first week with a new puppy can be filled with excitement, challenges, and heartwarming moments as you begin to forge a lifelong bond. This guide from the team at Puppy Dreams will help you know what to expect during this exciting time.
Bonding with Your Puppy
The first few days with your new puppy are all about building trust and forming a strong bond. Your puppy may be feeling unsure about their new environment, so it's essential to create a calm and welcoming atmosphere. Spend lots of quality time with your puppy, gently petting and cuddling them to help them feel safe and secure. Encourage bonding through positive interactions, such as playing games and offering treats.
Dealing with Sleepless Nights
Sleepless nights are a common occurrence with a new puppy. Your puppy is adjusting to sleeping in a new environment and may wake up frequently during the night. Be prepared for interrupted sleep and remain patient and understanding. Consider placing your puppy's bed in your bedroom during the first few nights so they are not alone. This will also make it easier to hear if your puppy needs to go to the bathroom during the night. Typically, puppies can control their bladder for one hour for every month of age. This means a 3-month-old pup can hold their bladder for 3 hours, a 4-month-old pup for 4 hours, and so on.
Establishing Daily Routines for Your Puppy
Consistency is key when it comes to establishing routines for your new puppy. From feeding schedules to potty breaks and bedtime rituals, try to stick to a consistent daily routine. This will help your puppy feel more secure and make it easier for them to adapt to their new surroundings. Be patient as you guide your puppy through their daily routine, providing gentle guidance and positive reinforcement along the way.
Beginning Basic Puppy Training
The first week with a new puppy may also present some new challenges. From accidents in the house to teething and chewing on furniture, it's all part of the journey and essential to address these issues calmly and proactively.
Accidents are inevitable during potty training, and it's important not to punish your puppy. Punishment can create fear, anxiety, and confusion. Instead, gently interrupt them if caught in the act and promptly guide them to their designated relief area. Potty training takes time, often spanning over several months, and requires patience and consistency. Stick to your chosen route and schedule, adjusting as necessary based on your puppy's progress.
Potty training is just one part of the wonderful journey of growing with your new canine companion. Soon, these potty training days will be a fond memory as you and your puppy settle into a happy, healthy routine together.
Puppy Dreams is dedicated to supporting you and your new puppy. From selecting the right breed to helping answer your puppy-related questions, our puppies and their new families are our number one commitment.