🐶 Bringing Home Your New Puppy: First Steps for Success

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting milestone, but it also comes with a lot of preparation and responsibility. The first few weeks set the foundation for your pup’s training, socialization, and lifelong habits. With the right tools and a thoughtful plan, you’ll be ready to start your journey together on the right paw.

✅ Puppy Prep Checklist

Make sure you have these essentials ready before your puppy comes home:

• Crate (for safe sleep and potty training)

• Puppy food (ask the breeder/rescue what they’ve been feeding)

• Food and water bowls (non-slip or stainless steel)

• Collar, harness, and leash

• Identification tags and microchip paperwork

• Puppy-safe chew toys and interactive toys

• Training treats (small, soft, high-value)

• Puppy pads and waste bags

• Baby gates or playpen for safe confinement

• Grooming supplies (brush, nail clippers, puppy shampoo)

• Vet contact info and first vet appointment scheduled
  
  

🌎 Puppy Socialization List

Early, positive experiences are key to raising a confident, well-adjusted dog. Aim to introduce your puppy gradually and safely to:

People & Environments:

• Adults, children, and seniors

• People in uniforms, hats, or carrying bags

• Vet clinic visits just for treats and pets

• Car rides and short trips to safe public spaces
  
  

Surfaces & Sounds:

• Grass, gravel, hardwood, tile, carpet

• Umbrellas, vacuum cleaners, doorbells, household appliances

• Fireworks or thunder sounds (at low volume to start)
  
  

Other Animals:

• Calm, fully vaccinated dogs

• Cats (if applicable to your household)

• Livestock or small pets (exposed safely and positively)
  
  

Handling & Care:

• Touching paws, ears, and tail gently

• Collar grabs and gentle restraint

• Brushing and light grooming
  
  

🎓 Starting Training: AKC STAR Puppy Program

Once your puppy has settled in, it’s time to begin training! The AKC STAR Puppy Program is a fantastic way to set the foundation for obedience, manners, and socialization. It focuses on:

• Basic cues (sit, down, come, walking on leash)

• Accepting handling and grooming

• Good manners around people and other dogs

• Responsible puppy ownership for families
  
  

This program not only builds confidence and trust but also prepares your puppy for future training goals, including the Canine Good Citizen (CGC) and even service dog work if that’s your path.

✨ The first steps with your new puppy are about creating structure, safety, and positive experiences. With the right preparation and training, you’ll be setting your pup up for a lifetime of success and companionship.