So, you’re about to become a puppy parent. Congratulations! A myriad of emotions will be running through you, but that’s completely normal. Getting a puppy is a huge life event, and it’s not one to be taken lightly.
From preparing your house to finding the right vet, there are so many things to do in the run-up to collecting your new pup, but one thing we sometimes overlook is the planning of our puppy’s first night at home.
Making sure the first night goes as smoothly as possible is vital to getting your pup adjusted to his or her new home. If you get this right, it can help to form a strong bond between you and your new pet and help your puppy feel safe and settled.
Here are a few more tips to make sure everything goes smoothly on that crucial first night.
Expect the Unexpected
If you’re getting a very young puppy or a rescue puppy, it’s highly likely that they won’t yet be toilet trained. You’ll need to show patience and understanding when little accidents happen. Don’t make a big deal out of it; just clean up the mess calmly and move on. Toilet training requires time, patience and consistency.
If he/she is distressed or worried, your puppy might be vocal on the first night. Barking or crying is completely normal, and it’s ok to comfort them until they feel more adapted to their surroundings.
Sleeping Arrangements on Your Puppy’s First Night at Home
Decide in advance where your puppy will sleep on his/her first night. Many pet parents crate-train their puppies.
If this is something you want to do, make sure you get the right-sized crate. Puppies grow extremely quickly, so factor this in when you’re looking for one.
Make the crate as comfortable as possible and, if you can get one, try adding a blanket or other soft item that smells of their mum. The familiar scent will keep them calm until they’re used to their new home. Make sure your puppy’s designated sleeping area will help to keep your dog cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
If you’re planning on sleeping in a separate room from your puppy, it’s a good idea to sleep in the same room as your pup, just for the first few days. This is especially the case for rescue puppies who are likely to be even more nervous and mistrusting of new surroundings.
Many pet parents spend the first few nights sleeping on the floor with their fur babies. This not only helps your pup feel safer and get used to you more quickly, it also means that if they need to go to the toilet during the night, you’re there to let them out.
Create a Calm Environment
It’s tempting to introduce your fur baby to your friends and family when you first bring him/her home but try to resist the urge on your puppy’s first night.
Your puppy needs time to adjust, and creating a calm and quiet environment away from other pets, noisy children and enthusiastic visitors is important on the first night. Try playing relaxing music for dogs – there are plenty of playlists available on streaming platforms.
Create a safe space where your puppy can settle in and hunker down for the night.
Show Them Where to do Their Business
As soon as you bring your puppy home, take them to their toilet area. This could be a garden or a puppy pad.
When they use it, praise them vocally and offer them treats. Make sure they use the toilet before you put them to bed for the night.
Ideally, you should then take your puppy to his/her designated toilet area every couple of hours to consolidate their training.
Establish Boundaries on Your Puppy’s First Night at Home
Start thinking about how your pup will integrate into your day-to-day life.
Decide where they will be allowed to go. Install stair gates to prevent them from getting into spaces where they might get into trouble.
Will he/she be allowed in the bedroom? On the sofa? Once again, consistency is key, so make sure the boundaries are clear the moment your fur baby enters his/her new home.
Need help or advice on your new puppy’s health needs?
Talk to the Garden Vets at Keele or sign up for their exclusive PetCare™ Plan today. Give your new pup the best ongoing care and support possible.
