A checklist for bringing a puppy home: essential steps

Preparation: Setting Up Your Puppy’s New Home

Bringing a puppy home is a joyful but important event that requires careful preparation. Decide where your puppy will spend most of their time, including a safe sleeping area, play zone, and feeding spot. Using a crate inside a secured pen or gated area can help create a safe den and prevent unwanted behaviours such as chewing and soiling carpets during toilet training. Gather essential supplies including quality puppy food, bowls, beddings, appropriate toys, a collar with ID, and grooming tools to ease the transition.

Puppy-Proofing Your Home for Safety

Your home and garden must be thoroughly puppy-proofed to protect your curious companion. Remove or secure anything tempting that could be harmful—such as children’s toys, shoes, electrical wires, garden tools, chemicals, and toxic plants. Check that your garden is fully enclosed and that any water features or sheds are inaccessible. Adopting a puppy means anticipating their exploration instincts, so adopt a crawling perspective to spot hazards at puppy-level eye height.

Questions to Ask Your Puppy Breeder

When picking up your puppy, ask your reputable breeder for important information and resources. Confirm that your puppy is microchipped, vaccinated, and has proper documentation in line with UK regulations. Request some bedding material from the breeder to provide familiar scents that reassure your puppy. Learn about your puppy’s current diet, toileting habits, and routine as these will help with smoother house-training and prevent digestive upset while adjusting to their new home.

Establishing Puppy House Rules with Your Family

Before your new puppy arrives, align all household members on key rules. Decide where the puppy will sleep, whether they are allowed on furniture, and who is responsible for feeding, toileting, training, and playtime. Consistency from all members will set clear expectations for your puppy and prevent confusion. Choose a suitable and comfortable name for your puppy to use consistently, especially in public outings.

Setting Up Local Support: Vets and Training

Research and choose a trusted local vet to register your puppy early. Scheduling an initial health check soon after bringing your puppy home allows for timely vaccinations and preventative care. Look into local puppy training classes or professional trainers, as early socialisation and obedience training are crucial foundations for a confident, well-behaved dog. If in-person classes are limited, many reputable trainers offer online support and advice tailored to UK pet owners.

First Days: Gentle Introduction and Routine Building

Plan to bring your puppy home during a quiet time to minimize stress. Introduce them gently to their crate and resting space, fill the environment with familiar scents from breeder bedding, and supervise interaction closely. Establish consistent routines for feeding, toileting, exercise, and sleep to help your puppy adapt confidently. Limit overwhelming visitors and new animals until your puppy feels settled. Patience and gentle encouragement make these first days positive and reassuring for both you and your puppy.

Responsible Puppy Ownership and Continued Care

Owning a puppy is a wonderful but long-term commitment. Responsible ownership means investing in ongoing healthcare, vaccinations, microchipping updates, socialisation, training, nutrition, and mental stimulation. Always source your puppy from reputable breeders or adoption centres that prioritise animal welfare. Ethical breeding practices and well-informed choices reduce the risk of health and behavioural problems. Enjoy the journey of raising a happy, healthy companion with love and care.

For more helpful advice and training resources, visit our dog coach Vicky Carne's website.