Are you bringing home a puppy soon? Feeling a mix of excitement and overwhelm? That’s normal! A puppy brings a lot of fun and joy, but it’s also a big adjustment. Knowing how to prepare for your puppy before they come home can help take some of the stress out of it, and let you focus on bonding with your puppy.
Here are five things you can do before you get your puppy to make their homecoming more enjoyable for both of you.
1. Puppy proof your home.
Puppies don’t come home knowing what things are okay to chew and play with, and what are not. Puppy proofing helps prevent your puppy from causing damage and creating a habit of chewing or shredding things that they shouldn’t. Put away anything your puppy may be able to reach: shoes, books, magazines, power cords, throw pillows, etc. Baby gates can be used to keep your puppy out of rooms or spaces you’d prefer they not go in.
2. Get your gear.
A new puppy means new supplies. Having all of that on hand before your puppy comes home makes things easier for you. I always recommend a crate and playpen for new puppies, and those can be set up before you get your puppy. Ensure you have a supply of food and some things they can chew like bully and yak sticks. You can find a guide to my top 5 absolute must-have puppy essentials here.
3. Find a veterinarian.
Your new puppy will need to go to the vet shortly after coming home with you for a puppy wellness check and vaccinations. You can even call and schedule the first appointment before you get your pup. I highly suggest using a vet that is Fear Free certified. Fear Free vets are specially trained to make your pet’s medical care as stress-free as possible. Starting your puppy with a Fear Free vet makes the vet a positive experience, and helps prevent your dog from being scared at the vet, which can be common for many dogs. You can find a Fear Free vet near you here.
4. Learn about your puppy’s genetics.
This may sound difficult and scientific, but don’t worry, it’s not! If you’re getting a purebred puppy, learn about the history of the breed. Understand why they were bred by humans. What traits did people select for when they formed the breed? This will give you some very helpful insight into what makes your dog tick. Your terrier pup will likely want to dig, as they were bred to dig out and kill rodents. Your retriever puppy will probably want to hold things in his mouth because they were bred to do so. When you understand your puppy’s genetic tendencies, you can then plan ahead and find outlets for these needs. If your puppy is a mix, you can learn about the different breeds that make up your unique puppy. Having this knowledge will help you prepare for your puppy.
5. Arrange for puppy care.
I always recommend taking a week or two off from work when you first bring your puppy home. This will give you space to help your puppy through the transition of coming home. But once you return to work, you’ll likely need to arrange for care for your pup during the day, as young puppies cannot stay home alone for a full workday. Perhaps you can rearrange your schedule, so you can run home at lunch to potty and play with your puppy. Or maybe you can ask a family member or neighbor to stop by midday. There is also an option to hire a dog walker or pet sitter to make sure your puppy gets a potty break and some exercise while you’re at work. Whatever you choose, it’s a good idea to arrange that now so you don’t have to think about it once your puppy comes home.
Get Some Puppy Raising Support
Dog Forward Training offers Pre-Puppy Preparation consultations for anyone who joins a puppy program before bringing their new companion home. Get personalized advice on what you can do now to ensure you’re ready for your puppy, as well as a plan for your puppy’s first few days at home.
Book a free phone consultation if you’d like to work with me to set yourself and your puppy up for success from day one!
In-home training and socialization services are available in the Chicago suburbs. Virtual training is available worldwide.
