Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, and it can also feel overwhelming. The first weeks together set the tone for your puppy’s development, confidence, and bond with your family. At Heart Strong Puppies, we believe good puppy care is about consistency, patience, and understanding what your puppy needs as they adjust to a brand new world. This page is meant to support you as you settle in and begin building routines that help your puppy feel safe and secure.
The First Days at Home
The transition from our nursery to your home is a big change for a puppy. New sounds, new smells, and new people can be exciting but also tiring. During the first few days, it is best to keep things calm and predictable. Establish a simple routine for feeding, potty breaks, rest, and play.
It is normal for puppies to be quieter, need extra sleep, or feel unsure at first. Giving your puppy time to observe and adjust helps build confidence. Gentle reassurance and consistency go a long way during this stage.
Feeding and Nutrition
A consistent feeding schedule helps puppies feel secure and supports healthy digestion. Choose a high quality puppy food appropriate for your puppy’s size and breed, and avoid frequent changes during the first weeks at home. Fresh water should always be available.
Treats can be useful for training and bonding, but they should be given in moderation. Keeping feeding times and portions consistent helps establish routine and supports healthy growth.
Potty Training and Routine
Potty training is a process, not an overnight achievement. Puppies benefit from frequent trips outside, especially after waking, eating, playing, or napping. Praise and calmencouragement help reinforce good habits. Accidents are a normal part of learning. Staying patient and consistent helps your puppy understand expectations without fear or stress.
Socialization and Training
Early socialization helps puppies grow into confident, well adjusted dogs. Introduce your
puppy to new people, environments, and experiences gradually and at a pace that feels
comfortable. Positive exposure helps build resilience and reduces fear later in life.
Basic training should focus on trust, simple commands, and positive reinforcement.
Short, consistent sessions work best for young puppies and help strengthen the bond
between you and your dog.
Grooming and Veterinary Care
Regular grooming helps puppies become comfortable with handling and supports
long-term health. Gentle brushing, nail trims, and ear checks should be introduced early
and kept calm and positive.
Routine veterinary care is essential. Your veterinarian can help guide vaccination
schedules, parasite prevention, and overall wellness as your puppy grows.
Sleep and Rest
Puppies need a significant amount of sleep to grow and develop properly. A quiet,
comfortable space allows your puppy to rest without interruption. Crate training can be a
helpful tool when introduced calmly and positively, giving puppies a safe place to relax.
Overtired puppies can become overstimulated, so balancing playtime with rest is
important during these early weeks.
Ongoing Support
At Heart Strong Puppies, our support does not end when your puppy goes home. We
encourage families to reach out with questions as they navigate puppyhood. Every
puppy is different, and guidance along the way can make the experience more
enjoyable and less stressful.
Caring for a puppy is a journey, and we are happy to be part of yours.
