How to successfully introduce a puppy to your home

The day has finally arrived! You’re about to welcome a bouncing bundle of joy into your home. Introducing a puppy is an incredibly exciting time, but it also comes with responsibilities to ensure a smooth, happy, and stress-free transition for your new furry family member. At COYA Pet, we understand that you want the best for your puppy, and that starts with a warm, welcoming environment.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about introducing a puppy into your home, helping them settle in and thrive.

1. Before They Arrive: Puppy-Proofing Your House

Preparation is key! Before your new companion even sets a paw in your home, it’s vital to puppy-proof your living space. Puppies are naturally curious and love to explore with their mouths, so what seems harmless to you could be a hazard to them.

• Secure Cords & Cables: Tidy away any electrical cords, phone chargers, or cables. They can be tempting chew toys and pose a serious electrocution risk.
• Remove Hazardous Items: Put away anything toxic like cleaning products, medications, plants (check for pet-toxic plants!), and small objects they could swallow.
• Designate a Safe Space: Set up a quiet, comfortable area for your puppy – this could be a crate, a playpen, or a specific corner of a room. Include a comfy bed, fresh water, and some stimulating toys. This will be their sanctuary.
• Secure Rubbish Bins: Invest in bins with secure lids to prevent your puppy from rummaging through them.

2. The Big Welcome: Making Their Arrival Special

The first few hours and days are crucial for your pup to feel safe and secure.

• Calm & Quiet Arrival: Try to bring your new friend home when things are calm. Avoid a big party or too many new faces initially. Let them explore their new environment at their own pace.
• Potty Break First: As soon as you arrive, take your puppy straight to their designated potty spot outside. This helps establish good habits from the get-go. Reward them generously when they go!
• Introduce Their Safe Space: Guide them to their designated safe space. Let them investigate it and get comfortable. You can place a blanket or toy with the scent of their littermates or mother to help them feel more secure.
• Supervised Exploration: Allow them to explore their new home under close supervision. Keep an eye out for anything they might try to chew or get into.

3. Setting the Routine: Consistency is King

Puppies thrive on routine. Establishing a consistent schedule for feeding, potty breaks, playtime, and sleep will help them adjust quickly and feel more secure.

• Feeding Schedule: Stick to regular feeding times and ask the breeder what food they are currently fed. You will want to keep this the same for a week or two to help keep their tummies happy. After a couple of weeks if you would like to change their food we would recommend COYA Pet's delicious and nutrient-rich freeze-dried raw food for puppies! It's packed with everything your growing pup needs for healthy development.
• Potty Schedule: Take your pup out frequently – every 2-3 hours initially, after waking up, after eating, and before bedtime. Patience and positive reinforcement are key.
• Playtime & Training: Incorporate short, frequent play sessions and positive reinforcement training throughout the day. This builds a strong bond and helps them learn house rules.
• Sleep Schedule: Ensure your new companion gets plenty of undisturbed sleep. Puppies need a lot of rest for their development.

4. Socialisation: Building a Confident Canine

Early socialisation is vital for your puppy's emotional development. This involves carefully exposing them to new sights, sounds, people, and other well-behaved, vaccinated dogs in a positive and controlled way.

• Introduce to New People: Slowly introduce your pup to a variety of calm, dog-friendly people.
• Positive Experiences: Make all new experiences positive with treats and praise. Avoid overwhelming them.
• Puppy Classes: Consider enrolling in a puppy socialisation class. These are excellent for controlled exposure to other puppies and professional guidance.

4. Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them

• Whining at Night: Your pup might cry during the first few nights. This is normal – they are missing their littermates. Keep their safe space near you initially, provide a comforting toy, and resist the urge to immediately give in to every whine. They will eventually settle.
• Nipping & Biting: Puppies explore with their mouths. Redirect nipping onto appropriate chew toys. If they bite too hard, give a firm "ouch!" and withdraw attention for a moment.
• Potty Accidents: Accidents will happen! Never scold your pup for an accident. Simply clean it up thoroughly with an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate odour and prevent repeat accidents. Go back to basics with your potty training routine.

A Happy, Healthy Puppy

Bringing a new dog home is a journey filled with love, laughter, and a few challenges along the way. By preparing your home, establishing routines, and focusing on positive reinforcement, you’ll be setting your new best friend up for a lifetime of happiness.

Welcome your new puppy with confidence and watch them flourish into a cherished member of your family!