The first 24 hours will set the tone for how your puppy adjusts to his new home. With a little preparation, you can make this transition as smooth as possible.
Making Your Puppy Feel at Home:
Your puppy will be experiencing a lot of new sights, sounds, and smells. Here’s how to help him settle in:
- Stay Calm: Your puppy will look to you for cues. Stay calm and reassuring to help him feel safe.
- Introduce Gradually: Introduce your puppy to his new environment slowly. Too much stimulation at once can be overwhelming. Avoid over-exposing him to too many new faces all at once. Let each family member say a quick “hello” to the puppy, but then allow your puppy to rest. Resident pets should be introduced at a later time when the puppy is more settled in your home..
- Safe Space: Show your puppy the confinement area designated as his sleeping space. Let him explore it at his own pace, offer treats and gentle praise within the space to create positive associations.
First Night Tips and Tricks:
The first night can be challenging as your puppy adjusts to being away from his littermates. Here are some tips to help:
Crate Comfort: Place your puppy’s crate or exercise pen near your own bed to provide comfort through your presence.
Nighttime Potty Breaks: Puppies have small bladders and may need to go out during the night. Set an alarm to take him out at regular intervals. Prevent crate soiling and house soiling so your puppy doesn’t develop bad habits.
Patience and Reassurance: Expect some whining or barking as your puppy adjusts. Offer gentle reassurance without making it a habit to take him out of the crate every time he makes a noise.