If you are adopting a new puppy, congrats! Adoption can be an exciting time for any pet parent, regardless of whether or not it is your first puppy. To prepare to welcome a new puppy into your home, you will want to make sure that your home is set up for success. That way, you and your puppy will begin a great life together right from the start. 

Puppy sleeping in someone's arms.

Set Up Spaces for Your Puppy

There are two types of spaces that your dog will need: safe space and sleeping space. 

Safe space is the comfort zone that your puppy can gravitate to when they are feeling vulnerable or uncomfortable. Oftentimes, this will be a space where your puppy also sleeps. For dogs who are scared of guests in your home, it should be a space where they can feel protected from the new surroundings. 

You will also need to determine where your puppy should sleep. Most pet parents opt for crate training their puppy, creating both a safe space and sleeping space within the crate. Through crate training, puppies will become accustomed to using the crate almost like their own bedroom. This can also prevent them from taking up the bed or sleeping in areas where you do not want them to. 

H2: House Training

With a new puppy, you are likely excited to start puppy training day 1. However, taking too young of a puppy to a facility for training poses risks. Your puppy needs their first vaccines before they are exposed to other dogs in a group training session. This does not mean you need to hold off on training. There are plenty of options for training your dog through virtual sessions online with an experienced training. 

With house training, understanding that your puppy will need more frequent bathroom breaks than they do as an adult. However, you can still begin house training your puppy from day 1. 

H2: Dog Toys

Puppies have a lot of energy. This requires them to have an outlet to express that energy. Dog toys can be exciting for puppies. Your puppy may have a preference when it comes to toys or develop a preference over time. To start, it is good to have a variety ready. This can also help you understand your puppy’s natural behavior.  

H2: Food and Water Bowls

Finding the right food can be stressful. There are so many brands out there that provide different benefits for your pet. If you are overwhelmed by the number of options on the market, it is best to consult with your veterinarian to determine what is suitable for your new puppy. 

For water bowls, find a size that best fits the projected size of your puppy once they reach maturity. For example, you do not want to get a small bowl for a Great Pyrenees. If your dog is a mixed breed, consult with your veterinarian for an opinion on a suitable bowl size. Otherwise, use your best judgment based on your pet. 

Puppies tend to have smaller bladders than adult dogs. This does not mean you need to restrict the amount of water they drink. However, if you opted for a larger bowl, you can always fill it halfway if you think it is too much for your puppy. 

 H2: Adapt along with your puppy. 

Your puppy will adapt to their new environment in your home. However, you should also adapt along with them. This means determining what your puppy might need to feel more at home once they are there. If your dog ends up with a certain toy preference, encourage the use of that toy by getting more similar ones. Understanding the needs of your puppy can lead to a better life for both of you.