This is a collaborative post
Bringing a new puppy home is a wonderfully exciting time, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not fully prepared. A little planning goes a long way in helping your new companion settle quickly and happily. From stocking up on essentials to making your home puppy-safe, every step you take now will create a safer, calmer environment for your furry friend.
Puppies thrive on routine and familiarity, so preparing ahead ensures a confident start for both you and your new companion. Here’s everything you need to know to get ready for your puppy’s arrival.
Must-Have Supplies
Before your puppy steps paw through the door, make sure you have the essentials ready. You’ll need sturdy food and water bowls (stainless steel is best to avoid bacteria build-up), high-quality puppy food rich in nutrients, a collar and lead with an ID tag, and a comfortable bed or crate for sleeping.
Puppies love to chew, so stock up on teething toys and soft, durable chews to protect your furniture and belongings. Puppy training pads will help with early toilet training, and enzyme-based cleaners are handy for accidents. Having these basics in place means you’ll spend less time panicking and more time bonding with your new best friend.
Puppy-Proofing Your Home
Puppies are naturally curious and love to explore with their mouths, so it’s important to puppy-proof your home. Tuck away loose wires and cables, remove or secure any toxic plants, and store cleaning products and medicines well out of reach. Install baby gates to block access to stairs or hazardous rooms, and consider crate training to keep your puppy safe when unsupervised.
Small objects that could be swallowed should be picked up, and bins should have secure lids to avoid rummaging. Setting up a gated “puppy zone” gives your new arrival space to play safely without free rein of the entire house. Remember, anything left within reach is fair game for a curious puppy!
Choosing Puppy Food and Treats
Good nutrition is crucial for a growing puppy. Look for foods specifically formulated for puppies, which are higher in calories, protein, and essential nutrients to fuel their rapid development. Puppies have different dietary needs compared to adult dogs, and feeding the right formula ensures strong bones, healthy muscles, and a shiny coat. Always check the label for life-stage suitability and consult your vet if unsure about the best brand or portion size.
When choosing treats, opt for small, healthy options designed for puppies. Treats are invaluable for training, but should make up no more than 10% of your puppy’s daily calorie intake to maintain a balanced diet. Establishing good eating habits early will set the foundation for a happy, healthy dog for years to come.
First Days at Home: Routine & Vet Check
Consistency is key to helping your puppy feel secure. Set regular times for feeding, toilet breaks, naps, and play to create a comforting routine. Puppies learn through repetition, so sticking to a schedule helps them understand what’s expected. Start gentle socialisation by introducing your puppy to household noises, different surfaces, and close family members in a calm, positive manner.
Arrange a vet appointment within the first few days to check your puppy’s overall health, discuss vaccinations, and ask about flea, tick, and worming treatments. Your vet can also advise on feeding schedules, behavioural tips, and microchipping if not already done. The more structure and positive experiences your puppy has early on, the more confident and well-adjusted they’ll become.
First Night Survival Tips
The first night can be tough for a new puppy. It’s normal for them to whine or feel unsettled away from their littermates. Place the crate near your bed so your puppy can sense your presence, which often helps them settle more quickly. A soft toy or a blanket with familiar scents from their first home can provide extra comfort and reduce anxiety.
Keep bedtime calm: a little gentle play, a toilet break, then lights out. If they cry, avoid making a fuss — gentle reassurance is fine, but consistency helps teach them that night-time is for sleeping. Be patient and remember that it often takes a few nights for a puppy to fully adjust.
Introducing Your Puppy to Other Pets
If you have existing pets, introducing them to your new puppy should be done carefully and thoughtfully. Start with short, supervised meetings in a neutral area where neither animal feels territorial. Keep dogs on leads initially and allow them to sniff each other at their own pace without forcing interaction.
For cats, ensure they have an escape route and a safe space to retreat to if they feel overwhelmed. Observe body language closely and separate the animals if signs of stress or aggression appear. Reward calm behaviour with treats and praise to reinforce positive interactions.
Never force introductions — patience, positive reinforcement, and gradual exposure are key to building a peaceful, trusting relationship between your new puppy and resident pets.
Disclosure: This is a collaborative post