Your First Week With a New Puppy: A Checklist

The first week sets habits that last years. It is also when most new owners are given the most conflicting advice.

Before the puppy arrives

Food the breeder or shelter was already using, two bowls, a collar and lead, a crate or bed, an enzymatic cleaner, and a vet appointment booked for the first 48 hours.

Do not switch food immediately

Changing diet on the same day as a change of home reliably causes diarrhoea. Keep the old food for a week, then transition over 7 days.

The socialisation window

Roughly 3 to 16 weeks. Positive exposure to sounds, surfaces, people and handling during this period prevents a large share of adult fear problems. Because the vaccination course is not finished, do this by carrying the puppy, inviting healthy vaccinated dogs to your home, and avoiding public ground.

Sleep

Puppies need 18–20 hours a day. Much of what looks like hyperactivity or biting is an overtired puppy. Enforce naps.