This checklist helps you cover all the basics to make your dog feel safe, calm, and welcome in their new home. Focus on creating a peaceful environment, establishing a gentle routine, and beginning the bond that will last a lifetime.
Play music or white noise. Sudden silence or sharp household sounds (like footsteps, doors, or traffic) can startle them.
Soft noises soothes anxiety and helps them feel less alone and encourages better sleep — especially during crate naps or nighttime
Watch for Red Flags (health or behaviour)
Monitor appetite, poop, energy levels, and any signs of fear or aggression. Take notes. Early intervention helps long-term.
Potty training schedule
Take them out first thing in the morning, after naps, play, meals, and before bed. Reward every success immediately.
Don’t rush bath time
Wait until your dog is comfortable and settled — unless absolutely necessary. Use pet-safe wipes for small clean-ups in the meantime.
Keep socialisation low-stress
Introduce one new person, sound, or place per day — slowly. Avoid dog parks or busy streets too early; let them gain confidence first.
Introduce one toy, not ten
Your new dog is already overwhelmed with new smells, sounds, people, and routines. Giving them too many toys at once can overstimulate them or make it harder for them to form healthy play habits.
First night: expect whining
Keep the crate near your bed if possible. A soft toy and your presence can calm them. Don’t yell or punish for noise.
Begin bonding gently
Sit near them, talk softly, and offer a few treats. Avoid hugging or overstimulating them — trust builds gradually.
Feed lightly & observe
Offer a small meal and water after a rest. Watch for signs of stress like diarrhea or excessive panting.
Don’t bring visitors yet
Give your dog at least a day or two to settle before meeting new people. Too many greetings = stress.
Keep the schedule simple
Plan food, potty, nap, and play breaks roughly every 2–3 hours.
Let them explore slowly
Give them time to sniff and explore one room at a time. Don’t overwhelm them with the whole house or every family member at once.
Save your vet’s contact info and plan the first check-up
Recommended: visit your vet within first week. Even if the breeder or shelter says they're healthy, book your own vet appointment for peace of mind, advice, and microchip registration.
Begin crate training (optional)
Leave the crate door open and toss in treats. Let them explore it freely, never force them in. Make the crate a cozy, positive place — not a punishment zone. Use soft blankets, a safe chew toy, and encourage short rests there.
Give them a chew-safe toy
Offer toys made for puppies.
Keep things calm—limit visitors and activity
Give your dog space to explore quietly and adjust to new smells and sounds.
Start basic name training
Help them begin recognising their name through positive repetition. When they look at you, reward with a treat or praise. This builds strong recall later.
Let your dog nap
Puppies need 16–20 hours of sleep per day—don’t overstimulate.
Go outside for the first potty break
As soon as you arrive, take them to the designated potty area and take them to the same place each time. Praise calmly when they go — this sets up the routine early.
Offer food and water in a quiet place
Keep bowls in a consistent location to start building routine.
