How To Introduce a Puppy to the Home

Bringing a puppy home may seem like a walk in the park, but there’s so much work that goes into having a puppy. It’s almost like bringing an infant into your home...just with more fur and slobber. In truth, introducing a puppy to your home is something you should plan in advance for and not after you bring the puppy home. 

So before you go and get excited, make a plan! Here are some suggestions for the planning phase of bringing a new puppy into your home.

#1 | Discuss it as a household or family.

If there’s more than one person in your apartment or house, you need to be on the same page when it comes to a dog. Obviously everyone needs to be in agreement of bringing home a puppy, but we’re talking the specifics like ground rules. The last thing you want to do is train your puppy to be confused because each person has their own idea of what’s right or wrong (i.e. letting your dog on the couch). Communication is really important so make sure everyone knows the do’s and don’ts you all agree to follow.

#2 | Look into the vaccination schedule + vet visit process.

We have a writeup on how often your dogs should be vaccinated that you can check out here. Alternatively, you can get this information from your trusted veterinarian upon the first visit which is a MUST.

#3 | Prep your home.

Dog proof the space. Breakables should be out of reach. Get child locks for the doors you don’t want opened by your new puppy to keep them out of toxic chemicals, etc. Get a doggy gate if there are areas of the home you don’t want them venturing to. 

#4 | Get the essentials.

Every starter pup parent should have the following at home:

• A dog bed
• A dog crate
• Harness + Leash
• Food + Water Bowls
• Chew toys for the teething puppy
• More toys
• Collar + tag
• Stain and deodorizing cleaners

#5 | Microchip your puppy.

One of the most devastating things that can happen is if your dog gets out and you have no clue where they are. Increase the chances of their return home by microchipping them! A microchip will allow vets and shelters to scan and identify the home of which they belong.

#6 | Plan the coming home date.

When you bring home your new dog, you probably want to have a second person with you so that the new puppy isn’t scared during transit. A second person will help eliminate the possibility of distracted driving as you bring the new bundle of joy home.

#7 | Look into training and pet care.

Your puppy might need some help getting the hang of things at home so a pet trainer is definitely something to consider. But the huge thing people don’t prepare for is care for the dog when away on a trip. Find a trusted pet sitter or facility that can watch your dog or lodge your puppy while you’re not home!

This is just a sampling of tips we offer at Pug Life Harness. You can find more tips and tricks and how-to’s for caring for your dog on our blog at this section. Feel free to leave a comment with tips you’re looking for!