How to Bring Our Labrador Puppy Home

At 7 or 8 weeks, a Labrador puppy is ready to leave the breeder̵7;s facility and come home with you. To ease its transition, prepare for the puppy̵7;s arrival by buying everything it will need: a collar, leash, bed, crate, food and water bowls and toys. As for the journey to your home, do everything you can to make it as stress-free as possible.

Things You'll Need

  • Towels or blankets
  • Rags or paper towels
  • Collar and leash
  • Food and water bowls
  • Dog crate
  • Dog bed
  • Toys
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Take the puppy for a walk at the kennel. This will reduce the chances that it will make a mess in your car. Afterward, carry the puppy to your car. Typically you should transport your Lab in a dog crate, but since the puppy needs special attention today, make an exception.

    • 2

      Wrap the puppy in a towel or blanket and let one of the passengers in the car hold it. Almost certainly this will be the puppy̵7;s first car ride, and the sounds, motions, even the smells of the car may make it nervous. Try to distract it by talking in a soothing voice while petting it. If you have a long drive ahead, stop every two or three hours so the puppy can relieve itself and get some exercise.

    • 3

      Arrange your schedule so you can spend three or four days in your home with the puppy. The puppy has never been separated from his mother and litter mates, so the new and strange surroundings may make it anxious or frightened. To help it adjust, play with it and provide plenty of attention and affection. Only leave the puppy alone when it sleeps.