Quick answer: In the first week with a new puppy, focus on a calm routine: a safe sleeping space, regular toilet trips, gentle introductions, safe things to chew and a vet visit. Have your supplies ready before pickup, keep things simple and expect a few messy moments.
Before your puppy comes home
A little preparation makes day one much smoother. Gather the basics so you are not rushing to the shops.
- Bed or crate with a soft blanket
- Food and water bowls, plus the food the breeder or shelter has been feeding
- A collar or harness that fits, and an ID tag
- A lead
- Puppy safe toys and chews
- Poo bags, enzyme cleaner for accidents and a baby gate or pen
Browse our puppy essentials collection for ideas, and see the ultimate checklist to prepare for your puppy for treat planning.
Day one: keep it calm
Your puppy has just left their litter, so everything is new. Let them sniff around one room, offer water, then a toilet trip outside. Keep visitors to a minimum and let them settle.
- Take your puppy to the toilet as soon as you arrive
- Show them their bed and water
- Limit the space so they do not get overwhelmed
- Offer a small meal at the usual time
Build a simple routine
Puppies love predictable days. A rough routine helps with toilet training, sleep and settling.
- Meals at regular times, as your vet or breeder advises
- Toilet trips after waking, eating, playing and before bed
- Short play sessions followed by a nap
- A quiet wind down before bed
Sleep and the first nights
Puppies need a lot of sleep, often 18 hours or more a day when they are very young. The first nights can be noisy. Place the bed or crate near you so your puppy feels safe, and offer a toilet trip before bed and again if they wake and cry.
Resist long play at bedtime. A warm blanket and a calm environment help. Whining usually eases as they settle into the routine.
Toilet training basics
Accidents are normal. Stay patient and consistent.
- Take your puppy to the same spot outside
- Say a cue word and reward straight after they go
- Watch for sniffing, circling or wandering off
- Clean indoor accidents with an enzyme cleaner and never punish your puppy
Chewing and play
Chewing is how puppies explore and ease sore gums while their adult teeth come through. Give them safe things to chew rather than your shoes. Swap an unsafe item for a toy, and praise them when they choose the right one. Always supervise play and replace toys that become damaged.
Our guide to the best toys for teething puppies has more ideas.
Both are from Lambwolf Collective, and we are an official Australian stockist. View Artichoke or view Squirrel Pop.
Treats and calm time
Use small, soft treats for training and rewards, and count them as part of the daily food. Our Australian made Premium Beef Liver is a soft option that breaks into small pieces. A LOVE Lick Mat is also handy for settling a puppy during quiet time or while you get on with your day.
Collar, ID and microchip
Puppies grow quickly, so check the fit of a collar often. You should be able to fit two fingers under it. A handmade option like our Handmade Australian Leather Collar suits dogs once they are big enough to wear it comfortably.
In Australia, puppies must be microchipped, and the details must be registered and kept up to date. Rules vary between states and territories, so check with your local council, your breeder or your vet. Make sure your contact details are right on the registry, and update them if you move or change phone number.
First vet visit
Book a check in the first week. Bring any paperwork from the breeder or shelter, including vaccination and worming records. Ask your vet about vaccination timing, parasite prevention, desexing, feeding amounts and when your puppy can safely go to public places and meet other dogs.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a puppy take to settle in?
Many puppies start to settle within a few days to a couple of weeks, but every puppy is different. A steady routine helps.
When can my puppy go for walks?
It depends on their vaccinations. Ask your vet when it is safe to walk in public places. Until then, explore your own yard and carry your puppy for gentle exposure.
Should my puppy sleep in my bedroom?
Many owners keep the crate or bed in the bedroom for the first nights so the puppy feels safe. You can move it gradually once they are settled.
This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
