What you need to know before adopting a puppy: Tips for new owners

Adopting a puppy is an exciting and emotional moment that brings a lot of joy – but also responsibility. To make the transition as smooth as possible for you and your new furry friend, it's good to know how to prepare, how to socialize them, and how to deal with the most common challenges in the first months.

Preparing for the arrival of a puppy: What do you need at home?

Before your puppy crosses the threshold of your home, prepare:

  • Safe environment – remove poisonous plants, dangerous objects and electrical cables from reach.
  • Basic equipment – a comfortable bed, food and water bowls, a leash and harness, chew toys, and a suitable shampoo.
  • Nutrition – choose a quality food that is appropriate for the age and size of the breed.
  • Veterinary plan – first check-up, vaccinations and parasite protection.

Research shows that good environmental preparation and early veterinary care have a significant impact on a puppy's long-term health. (1*)

Puppy Socialization: How to Properly Introduce Your Dog to the World Around Him

The period between 3 and 14 weeks of age is crucial for a puppy's socialization. (2*) This is when they learn to accept new stimuli, people, animals, and environments.

Recommendations:

  • introduce new experiences gradually and at a calm pace,
  • Reward positive behavior with treats or praise.
  • allow meetings with other vaccinated dogs,
  • involve your puppy in different sounds, surfaces and situations (e.g. car rides, vet visits).

A well-socialized dog is less prone to fears and behavioral problems in adulthood. (3*)

The most common challenges in raising a puppy and how to overcome them

Biting and destroying objects – provide enough suitable toys and supervise the dog so that it learns what it is allowed to bite.

Housetraining – take your dog outside often, especially after meals and sleep, and reward him when he relieves himself outside.

Separation anxiety – gradually accustom your puppy to shorter absences so that he doesn't feel abandoned.

Consistency is key – all household members should use the same commands and rules. Research confirms that positive reinforcement (rewards, praise) leads to better results than punishment. (4*)

Conclusion

The first months with a puppy lay the foundation for a lifetime. With preparation, patience, and the right approach, you will raise a healthy, confident, and happy dog that will be your loyal companion for years to come.

Literature: (*)

1. Source: Owner characteristics and interactions and the prevalence of canine behavior problems, (A. Jagoe, J. Serpell), https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0168159195010084

2. Source: Critical period in the social development of dogs, (DG Freedman, JA King, O. Elliot), https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13701603/

3. Source: Puppy parties and beyond: the role of early age socialization practices on adult dog behavior, (TJ Howell, T. King, PC Bennett), https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30101101/

4. Source: Dog training methods: Their use, effectiveness and interaction with behavior and welfare, (E. Hiby, NJ Rooney, JWS Bradshaw), https://www.researchgate.net/publication/261106650_Dog_training_methods_Their_use_effectiveness_and_interaction_with_behaviour_and_welfare

Back to blog