Tips on Introducing a New Puppy

Introducing a new puppy to your family, home and new environment can be challenging for the pet and for its new owners. Unfortunately there are no set rules on how to bring a puppy into a new environment, but there are several ways to help make the process a smooth experience for everyone. Always remember to be patient with your new puppy as the transition is probably as stressful for it as anyone else.

  1. Introduce It to Limited People

    • Introductions to too many people can be an overwhelming and shocking experience for the dog. Make sure that you only introduce it to a few people at a time. Although it can be exciting to show off your new pet, it's important to refrain from introducing it to too many strangers.

    Introduce It to Its Environment

    • Introduce the puppy to its new environment by showing it around your home and the areas it will be permitted to live in. Give your new puppy time to explore these new places on its own, and try not to smother it so it doesn't get overwhelmed.

    Introduce It to Its Own Private Space

    • Make sure your puppy has a space to call its own, whether this is a bed or a crate. Make sure you fill its crate with toys and treats and encourage your puppy to enter the crate on its own so it doesn't view the crate as a restricting cage. It is important that your puppy has an area to call its very own, as this will help it be more comfortable with the transition.

    Introduce It to Its Owners

    • Make sure your puppy is introduced one-on-one to each of its owners so it understands who the masters are. During this time, each owner should play with, give treats to, and give commands to the new puppy so it understands who the owners are. The puppy should have ample time with its owners before it's introduced to new people.

    Introduce It to a Routine

    • Once your puppy has been introduced to its environment and owners, it's important to get it on a routine right away. Even if your new puppy struggles to understand the routine you are trying to establish, stick with a solid, consistent schedule of eating, sleeping and going to the bathroom. This will only help to introduce your dog to its new life as a member of your family.