Anyone who’s ever gotten a puppy will tell you the first 24 hours can be rough. There’s all the excitement of a new pet tempered with the self-doubt of of being a new puppy parent. Most new puppy owners go through a period of uncertainty, wondering whether or not they’re doing it right.
No matter how in love you are with your new little friend, you’re going to face some challenges. The good news is, we have some advice to get you through the first days.
Plan Ahead
When your puppy arrives, you won’t want to do anything but play with them and watch them sleep. So, it’s a good idea to set up everything they need before the first 24 hours even start.
Take a Day or Two Off
Taking care of a new puppy takes lots of time and energy, and of course you’ll want to spend every possible moment with your new, furry bundle of joy!
If your work and life schedules allow, plan to take off at least one full day when you first bring your puppy home. In fact, work from home for a few days if you can.
Being there as much as possible in the beginning will help solidify your bond. You’ll be grateful for the time to help your puppy settle in.
Start Potty Training Right Away
As soon as you get your new puppy home, take them to their indoor “potty spot.” When they eliminate, praise them right away with lots of positive vocalizations and a treat.
If your puppy is at the age where they have been fully vaccinated and your vet has given the OK for him to venture outside with you for the first time, you can begin training to him to go potty outdoors. The same principles apply, just make sure your puppy goes potty outside before you bring him indoors.
Plan on potty breaks every two hours and after each time your puppy eats. Accidents are bound to happen, but you can start your puppy off on the right paw by establishing a schedule right away.
Show Him The Puppy Zone
The first day (and night) with your puppy is a time to teach them that they’re part of the family. But you also want to establish a routine, as well as physical boundaries, to teach them proper in-home behavior.
You can establish boundaries and help your puppy get used to her new home on the very first day by setting up a “puppy zone.”
It can be anywhere in your home, preferably where your family spends time. The area should include his bed or crate, favorite toys, and food and water bowls. We like to use a puppy playpen that will keep your puppy from wandering away while no one’s looking.
Show your new puppy their home base as soon as they get home, and throw some kibble or treats in so they enter it of their own accord. The more fun you can make it, the more likely they are to settle in quietly.
Keep Things Quiet on the First Day
When you get a puppy, it’s tempting to invite all your friends over to meet her right away. Of course, you want to show off your new best friend to the world!
But remember, your puppy just went on a scary car ride, and is in a brand new place with people she doesn’t know.
Make your puppy’s first day safe, quiet, and easy. There’s plenty of time for visitors later. For now, let your puppy settle in to her new digs—and her new family—in peace. Beside, she’ll probably want to sleep. A lot.
Prepare for Naps and a Few Sleepless Nights
Being a puppy is exhausting. Puppies sleep, on average, 15-20 hours a day! However, they also have near-hourly bathroom needs.
If your puppy is 8-12 weeks old, they will probably take lots of short naps during the day, and need to go potty right away when they wake up.
On the first night, your puppy will probably wake you up a few times. Like human babies, puppies wake up throughout the night. Establish a bedtime routine on your first day with puppy.
Some people like to have the puppy’s crate in their bedroom. The important thing is to establish a specific sleeping place to help your puppy get the routine. You can make it a warm, inviting place with a nice bed and snuggly toy.
Remind Your Puppy of Mama
Scent is your puppy’s strongest sense, and on their first night away from mom, they’ll be overwhelmed by new smells. You can help make them feel at home by placing a mama-scented t-shirt or towel in their crate.
When you go to pick up your puppy to bring them home, take an old t-shirt or towel with you, and wipe it on the mama dog. Or, ask the breeder in advance if you can take some of the mama’s bedding home with your new pet.
Want another trick to soothe your puppy on her first night away from mom?
Hide a ticking clock under their bedding. The steady tick-tock will remind them of their mama’s heartbeat. Or, get a Smart Love Snuggle Puppy, which mimics the sound of a beating heart and comes with a disposable heating pad for extra comfort.
Ask for Help When You Need It
The first 24 hours with your puppy can be challenging. Puppies have a lot in common with human babies. They need company, activity, and lots of interaction. Sometimes they cry and have accidents as they learn how to be in the world.
Once you get through the first day, you and your puppy will settle into a routine together. But sometimes, you may need a little help. Hiring a loving pet sitter or in-home daycare provider provides worry-free care for your precious new pup.