I’m So Excited to Welcome My New Puppy… What’s the First Thing I Should Do When He Arrives?
That “he’s finally coming home… feels unreal” moment is the best. And also: slightly chaotic.
If you only do one thing first, do this:
The first thing to do: take him straight to his toilet spot (then reward like crazy)
Before you introduce every room, before the cuddles, before the “meet the family” tour — go outside (or to the puppy pad area) and give him a calm chance to wee/poo.
- Keep it quiet
- Use a simple cue (“toilet”, “wee wee”, whatever you’ll stick with)
- The second he goes: treat + praise
- Then head inside
It sets the tone for toilet training and helps your puppy decompress after travel.
The first 60 minutes at home (simple, no-overwhelm plan)
1) Keep the entrance boring (yes, really)
Your puppy’s nervous system is doing a lot right now. Excited squealing + lots of hands = stress.
Do:
- one calm greeter at a time
- soft voices
- let him come to you
Avoid:
- passing him around
- introducing other pets immediately
- letting kids crowd him
2) Show him “his zone”
Set up one small area (pen, gated kitchen corner, or a room) with:
- bed/blanket
- water
- a safe chew
- a toy
- puppy pads if you’re using them
Think: safe base camp, not “welcome to the whole house”.
3) Offer water, then let him rest
Many pups won’t eat right away. That’s normal. Stress can switch appetite off.
4) Do a quick comfort check
- Is he panting a lot?
- Shaking?
- Whining?
- Trying to hide?
If yes: reduce stimulation, sit nearby, and let him settle.
The first night: what most new puppy owners don’t expect
Your puppy may cry. Even confident pups can panic when it’s suddenly quiet.
Try:
- crate/bed near you (first few nights)
- a warm-ish snuggle toy (or a safe heat pack wrapped properly)
- a worn t-shirt that smells like you
- one last toilet trip right before bed
And if you’re feeling emotional too? Totally normal. “Puppy blues” is real.
New puppy essentials you’ll be glad you bought early
A comfy harness (not just a collar)
For many puppies — especially small or sensitive ones — a harness is easier and safer than attaching a lead to a collar.
Look for:
- soft material
- adjustability (because they grow overnight)
- easy on/off (great for wriggly pups)
If your puppy is tiny or nervous: a step-in harness can feel less scary than going over the head.
A lead you can actually control
A longer multi-use lead is brilliant for:
- training
- giving a little freedom safely
- hands-free moments
ID tag (even if they’re “too small”)
It’s one of those boring purchases that matters most when you need it.
Check out all the puppy products at Pup Chic Boutique, from dog accessories to treats.
Quick FAQ
Should I bathe my puppy when he gets home?
Usually no — unless he’s filthy. Let him settle first.
Should I take him for a walk on day one?
Not necessary. Focus on calm + toilet routine + bonding.
When should I start training?
Day one, but keep it tiny: name recognition, toilet routine, gentle handling, and rewarding calm.