Bringing a four-legged friend into your home is an exciting experience! However, this time can be nerve-wracking, which is why it’s important to prepare in advance and know what to expect. This way, your puppy’s first night home goes as smoothly as possible. If you’re expecting a new pup or are interested in adopting a dog, here’s what you can look forward to about their first night in their new home!
#1 Get Everything You Need Beforehand
When you introduce anything new into your life, it is essential that you prepare ahead of time. Dog-proofing your home is an excellent way to prevent accidents and help your new friend adjust to the space. It is also important that you have all the supplies you will need ready before you bring your new puppy home. These include, but are not limited to:
- Puppy food
- Food and water bowls
- Collar and leash
- Dog crate and bed
- Puppy-safe toys
By buying these items in advance, you are setting you and your furry friend up for a successful first night. After all, you don’t want to run out of the house to grab a last-minute item when you could be spending time with your pup!
#2 Make the Crate Their Safe Space
Your puppy’s first night home will be exciting and overwhelming for them. When dogs are nervous, they often seek out small spaces. Introducing your furball to their crate on their first night home gives them a safe space to retreat to and sleep in. Further, crate training is recommended for all dogs, especially as they become housetrained. You can make their crate comfortable for them by providing treats, puppy toys, and a dog bed. It is important that you never use the crate as a punishment, as this can ruin your furry friend’s perception of the crate as a safe space.
#3 Schedule Lots of Playtime
It is natural that you will want to spend lots of time with your new companion! Not only does this help you bond with your fur baby, but it helps them adjust to their new home. Playtime could be as simple as a game of tug-of-war or an evening walk, or as involved as training. You are now their sole provider of safety, so giving them lots of attention is essential to their continued comfort. Playtime also helps them get a good night’s sleep, which both of you will need!
#4 Take Them Out to Potty Frequently
Every dog is different, but many puppies need to go potty often due to their small bladders and tummies. Before bedtime, ensure you take them outside so they can empty their bladders for the night. It is not unusual for puppies to have more accidents as they grow and learn, so have patience with them. Never punish them for these incidents; instead, reinforce positive potty behaviors with treats and praise.
#5 Know How To Manage Their Cries
It’s very common for puppies to cry their first night in a new place. Instead of letting them “cry it out,” check on your furry friend to show your love and to ensure they don’t need to go potty. Placing your pup’s crate near or in the room where you sleep can be a great way to make them more comfortable. Alternatively, you could place a t-shirt or blanket that smells like their mom and siblings in their crate as they transition into their new home.
Bringing home a puppy can be a big adjustment for both of you. Remember to have patience and show lots of love to your fur baby. The first night home, as well as the first few weeks, may be challenging, but it is worth your efforts. After all, you have years of joy and companionship to look forward to!