Bringing Your Puppy Home
The first few days are exciting, but structure makes the transition easier. Set up a calm, puppy-safe area with:
- A crate or playpen
- Fresh water
- Puppy-formulated food
- Safe chew toys
Keep the routine simple at first: potty breaks, short play sessions, meals, and rest.
Feeding Schedule
Puppies grow quickly, so feeding frequency matters:
- Under 6 months: 3 to 4 small meals per day
- 6+ months: usually 2 meals per day
Choose food labeled for puppies, since nutritional needs differ from adult dogs.
Vaccination Timeline
Work with your veterinarian to create a vaccine plan. In most cases, core vaccines begin around 6 to 8 weeks and continue through 16 weeks.
Always follow your vet's schedule for your specific puppy.
Socialization (3 to 14 Weeks)
This period has a major impact on lifelong behavior. Introduce your puppy to new experiences in a positive, controlled way:
- Different people and friendly dogs
- Everyday sounds (traffic, doorbells, appliances)
- New environments (sidewalks, parks, car rides)
Go slowly and keep each experience safe and rewarding.
House Training Basics
Consistency is the fastest path to success. Take your puppy outside:
- After waking up
- After meals
- After play sessions
- Before bedtime
Reward outdoor potty behavior immediately with praise and a small treat.
Teething and Chewing
Teething usually starts around 3 to 4 months. To protect both your puppy and your furniture:
- Offer approved chew toys
- Rotate toys to keep interest high
- Redirect chewing calmly instead of punishing
If chewing worsens suddenly, check with your vet.
This article is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice.