First Week Home: What to Expect with Your New Puppy

Bringing home your new puppy is one of the most exciting (and slightly overwhelming) moments ever. Whether you’re a first-time doodle parent or adding another fluffball to the family, that first week is all about bonding, adjusting, and laying a solid foundation. At Dreamy Goldendoodles, we prepare our puppies for this transition — but here’s what you can expect as a new puppy parent:

1. Expect Some Crying (It’s Totally Normal!)

Your puppy is leaving their littermates and the only home they’ve ever known — so yes, the first few nights might involve some whining or crying. This is normal and temporary. Stick to your routine, offer comfort without overdoing it, and be patient. They’re learning that you’re their new safe space.

2. Crate Training Begins Now

We give our pups a head start, but you’ll want to continue building on crate comfort at home. Keep it cozy, use positive reinforcement, and don’t cave to guilt. The crate will soon become their little den — a space to relax, nap, and feel secure.

3. Potty Training Takes Time (and Consistency!)

Even with early training, accidents happen. Take your puppy out frequently (after eating, drinking, napping, and playing), and reward them immediately for going potty outside. The more consistent you are now, the quicker they’ll catch on.

4. Energy Comes in Waves

Puppies are a mix of zoomies and ZZZs. Expect bursts of play followed by serious nap sessions. Don’t stress if your pup isn’t playing non-stop — rest is a big part of healthy development.

5. Curiosity is High, Attention Span is… Not

Puppies explore the world with their mouths, noses, and paws. Everything is new, exciting, and possibly chewable. Puppy-proof your home, redirect biting behavior, and start gentle training right away — even five-minute sessions make a big impact!

6. Routine is Your Best Friend

Dogs thrive on predictability. A consistent schedule for meals, potty breaks, playtime, and sleep helps reduce anxiety and speeds up training.

7. Don’t Overwhelm with Visitors or Trips

It’s tempting to show off your adorable new arrival, but try to keep things low-key the first week. Let your puppy bond with you before overwhelming them with too many new people, places, or experiences.

8. Vet Visit? Schedule It Within the First Few Days

Even though your puppy will come home up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations and deworming, you’ll want to get them established with your vet early. This is also when you’ll discuss vaccine schedules and any health plans like microchipping or parasite prevention.

9. It’s Okay to Feel Overwhelmed

Yes, puppies are cute — but they’re also a big responsibility. Don’t feel bad if the first few days are a mix of joy, exhaustion, and second-guessing. You’re not alone — and you’re doing great.

10. Soak Up the Snuggles

This first week is full of bonding moments you’ll never forget. Snuggles, belly rubs, wiggly tails — the beginning of a beautiful journey.

From our home to yours — welcome to the Dreamy family. You’ve got this. And we’ve got your back every step of the way.