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Getting a new puppy can be so exciting. Still, it can also make you anxious. It can fill you with any number of questions—before you get the puppy, as you take it home, and as you help it settle. One thing you can be sure of is that your puppy will need your love and attention.

 

Asking yourself these questions means you want to give your puppy the highest standard of care. Here are common questions many people ask when bringing a new puppy home. Hopefully, they will help set your mind at ease and prepare you for the arrival of your furry friend.

 

What Do You Do When You Get Your Puppy Home?

When you get home, do not go into the house. Start by introducing them to the place they will relieve themselves. Use a command you will repeat, such as, “Go potty.” Give them about 10-15 minutes, go back to the house, and try again after another 10 minutes.

In the house, let the dog explore designated areas. Exploring everywhere will be a sensory overload. Later, you can slowly introduce your puppy to the rest of the house, leaving out the off-limits area.

 

How Do You Introduce the Puppy to Your Family?

Introduce the puppy to the family members one at a time. It may take effort because of all the excitement. However, explain the need for this to your family members. Give each person a chance to bond separately with the new puppy.

How Do You Start Enforcing Rules?

Enforce rules from the first day. It will help your puppy adjust, get comfortable, and be confident with its new home. Do not yell and punish; it will only frighten the puppy. Instead, use gentle redirection and positive reinforcement. Stick to schedules for potty breaks, mealtime, playtime, and naptime.

 

How Will the First Night at Home Be?

Your puppy will probably cry on the first night and a few nights after that. However, do not pick it up to console it. Take it to the potty area just in case it needs to relieve itself and return it to the crate. Otherwise, let the puppy cry. It will help it understand the rules.

 

How Do You Potty-train a New Puppy?

You will not potty-train your new puppy overnight. Every puppy learns at its own pace. A general rule of thumb is your puppy can hold it for as many hours as their age in months. So if it is two months old, you should take it out every two hours.

 

How Do You Crate-train the Puppy?

Crates make the puppy feel secure and keep them away from mischief. It is their safe place when they want time for themselves. However, you will need to train them for this. As you do, remember that every dog is different, and it may take time. What you can do is help build a positive experience for your dog. At naptime, take your puppy to the crate. It will help it bond with the crate as its safe place.

For answers to questions related to bringing your new puppy home, contact Bergen County Veterinary Center at our office in Waldwick, New Jersey. You can call (201) 205-2500 today to schedule an appointment.