How to Make a New Puppy Feel at Home

Adding a new puppy to your household is like adding a family member. You want to play with her, get to know her personality, and help her adapt to her new environment. Being prepared for her arrival before you bring her home will make it easier for both of you to adapt to your new life together. In her first few weeks home, it is important to give your puppy a simple routine while maintaining your authority as the leader in your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog food
  • Water dishes
  • Leash
  • Dog toys
  • Crate
  • Dog bed
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase all of your puppy's necessary items, such as food and water dishes, a leash, toys, a crate, and a dog bed. Put these items in a comfortable spot that is warm and will allow your puppy to relax. It is important to have these items ready before you bring your puppy home for the first time.

    • 2

      Show your puppy around the house with a leash, allowing him to investigate the house without running wild. Be sure to introduce your puppy to his crate when you bring him home. Crates provide a sense of security for both you and your puppy while you're away.

    • 3

      Set up pet beds or a blanket in common rooms to give your puppy her own spot to curl up and relax. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals suggests supervising your puppy around any human-only furniture and encouraging your puppy to sit on her own pet bed instead.

    • 4

      Play with your puppy and take him for plenty of walks. Puppies are like children, they have plenty of energy. Playing fetch is a great way to bond with your new companion. The Humane Society notes you should walk your puppy twice a day to help keep him engaged and healthy.

    • 5

      Keep a consistent feeding, walking, and playing routine for your puppy. The Humane Society notes that keeping a routine teaches your puppy that there are specific times to eat, play, and go outside to eliminate waste.