Getting ready to bring your puppy home

In this part of our 'Puppy Series' we talk about how to get yourself ready for bringing a puppy home.

When should I bring the puppy home?

It is really important to think about the timing of bringing a puppy into your home for the first time. Remember, your little bundle of fluff is coming away from the litter and all that is familiar! If possible, collect your puppy at a time where you have a few days free to be at home whilst they adjust - ideally you should bring them home in the morning, so they have as much time to settle throughout the day before their first night in their new home.

What do I need to prepare for their arrival?

Make sure you are already prepared with the essentials - water bowl, feeding bowl/station, and bedding or crate as preferred. People have often shared that giving the puppy a small blanket or toy with your scent on a couple of weeks before you collect them may help them feel more familiar. The blanket will also smell of the mother and litter, helping the puppy feel calm.

Once you are home, please don't forget how curious puppies are, especially in this new adventure playground they are in - make sure your home is safe and secure. Is your garden secure, and are they are any gaps in the fence where little paws could squeeze? Check for areas that they may be able to dig their way out of to escape. You'll be surprised how quickly they will find ways out!!

Your breeder should have explained about the exact food your puppy is eating, and general timings. Having the right diet is so important, and puppies have sensitive tummies. Any sudden changes to their food may cause upset, and coupled with the stress of their new home this could cause them to have some tummy troubles. You can slowly introduce your preferred food over the up and coming weeks, however keep their routine as close to what they are used to as possible initially.

Before you leave to come home

Collect all relevant paperwork and information, and any food the breeder may be happy to share. Let them go to the toilet and maybe have a good play to wear them out before you start your journey! Now would be a good time to add a collar if you already have one. Ensure the collection is calm, quiet and as relaxed for your fluffy companion as possible.

The car journey

The safety of you and your puppy is paramount so ensure you have suitable restraints to keep them secure. A crate, seatbelt harness, suitably sized carrier or fitted dog guards will need to be in place.

They may cry or bark during the journey and this is normal even if you've done everything right - just stay calm, reassure them and let them know that you're there! If you are travelling home a long way, make sure you are having regular stops for toilet breaks and water.

Welcome Home!!!

Ideally your home will be quiet and calm with no visitors for the first few days - bring the puppy straight in and out to the garden for a toilet visit. Let them sniff and wander - these are all new sights and smells - then bring them inside, staying relaxed and reassuring as you do so.

And most importantly of all.......

Enjoy it! This is the start of an incredibly exciting adventure for you both, so relax and get to know the newest member of your family!