There’s something unforgettable about the day you bring home a puppy. That combination of excitement, nerves, and the weird desire to show off the pile of paws and fluff in your living room to everyone in your phone contacts. But, amid all this cuteness, you’re probably wondering: What should I do before I open the door to my new little roommate?
Puppy proofing: Save your stuff and your sanity
First, let’s talk about the fact that puppies are fluffy tornadoes. They will chew through phone chargers, sample houseplants, and get into the strangest corners of your home.
Before anything else, look around and start scrutinizing your pup. Remove shoes and bags, keep cords and medications out of reach, and don’t let them roam where they could get hurt – baby gates are about to become your new best friends. Find a safe and comfortable place for their bed; Close to the action but quiet enough for them to take a nap.
The basics are important, so don’t worry about ordering every game
Frankly, pet stores can be a trap for new puppy owners. Just the basics at first: a good collar and leash, two sturdy bowls, vet-recommended food, and a pile of chew-resistant toys.
Stock up on treats (you’ll go through more than you think) and poop bags. If you want a quick checklist, check out the American Kennel Club’s puppy supply list before your shopping trip.
Prepare your mindset: Early training = less chaos
Even young puppies learn quickly and master the limits of the test. Start with basic house training and one or two commands, such as “sit” and “come.” Go for short, upbeat sessions and lots of positive feedback – a little therapy goes a long way. No need for perfection!
If you feel stuck, don’t be shy about asking your vet for advice or browsing trusted resources to learn about puppy training. You can also hire someone to do much of the puppy’s training for you so you know it’s been done correctly. The most important thing? Be patient and keep your sense of humor handy.
Prepare for surprises (and maybe a little sleep deprivation)
Here’s a reality check: There will be accidents. You will chew shoes. Sleep will be lost. It can be stressful some days, but honestly, watching your pup learn, grow, and cuddle up next to you makes every “excuse” worth it. Just remember, you don’t have to have everything perfect. Mistakes happen, what matters is showing up, learning together and embracing the mess.
You are about to experience some of life’s most exhilarating and exhilarating moments. With a little preparation and plenty of snacks, you and your pup will be able to get through those wild first weeks—and you’ll emerge closer than ever. So, take a deep breath and grab the leash. You got this!
