Set up your space
Choose a quiet rest area, plan safe boundaries, and gather appropriately sized bowls, a collar, leash, and enrichment items before bringing a puppy home.
A good beginning is planned
Prepare for the everyday, not just arrival day.
These general planning notes are not veterinary advice. A veterinarian can help you make decisions for your individual puppy.
Make time to learn
Consider a positive-reinforcement training class and agree on household routines. Short, consistent practice helps everyone start with the same expectations.
Plan for care
Identify a veterinary practice and ask about examinations, preventive care, nutrition, and age-appropriate activity for your puppy.
Questions to bring along
Get the specifics from the people who know your puppy.
- What records and care information will be shared?
- What food and routine is the puppy currently used to?
- What date is listed for birth or going home, if known?
- Who should I contact if a detail needs clarification?