tips for bringing home a new puppy

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, fun, and, well, sometimes downright overwhelming.

In a recent episode of our podcast, Not Just Fluff, host Hannah Shaw (aka the Kitten Lady) sat down with Banfield veterinarian Dr. Jennica McGuire to walk new puppy caregivers through what really matters in those first critical weeks.  

When your new puppy comes home 

“Preparation is everything,” says Dr. McGuire. New puppy caregivers should focus on the basics: food and water bowls, a leash, a harness, a collar with identification, and a crate that allows the puppy to stand up and turn around comfortably. Adjustable crates that grow with the puppy can be especially helpful. 

Bedding, toys, puppy-appropriate food, and even calming pheromone products can make the transition smoother. Most important is timing, says Dr. McGuire. Bringing a puppy home when someone can be present for the first few days, like over a weekend, can help everyone settle in. 

A routine that sticks 

“Puppies thrive on predictability,” says Dr. McGuire, “and establishing a daily rhythm early sets the tone for lifelong habits.” Mornings should start with a potty break, followed by breakfast, then another trip outside. Feed puppies multiple meals per day — ideally three, but at least two — along with scheduled playtime, walks, and rest. Consistency counts on weekends too!  

The first vet visit matters 

Establishing a relationship with a veterinarian right away can lead to better, more consistent care long term. “Ideally, puppies should be seen within the first few days at home,” shares Dr. McGuire. 

She explains that vaccination schedules require careful timing. Distemper-parvo boosters continue every few weeks until roughly 17 to 20 weeks of age, rabies is typically given around four months, and additional vaccines like Bordetella and leptospirosis may be recommended depending on lifestyle and risk. She also says routine deworming, fecal testing, and starting monthly heartworm, flea, and tick prevention are essential. 

Puppies are especially vulnerable to serious diseases like parvovirus and distemper, so waiting to take your puppy to the dog park until they’re vaccinated is a smart idea. 

Red flags to watch out for 

When it comes to health concerns, subtle changes matter. Passing up even one meal can be a red flag for a young puppy, says Dr. McGuire. Distended bellies, pale gums, lethargy, and behaviors like frequent head shaking are also signs that warrant attention. If something feels off, it’s always better to speak up early.  

“If the caregiver is concerned, the veterinarian is concerned” – Dr. McGuire. 

Nutrition, energy, and behavior 

Nutrition is another area where puppy care is critical. Puppy food is formulated differently than adult food, with the right balance of calories, minerals, and nutrients to support growth. “Size matters too,” says Dr. McGuire. “A Great Dane puppy and a Chihuahua puppy have very different needs.” 

What about all that intense puppy behavior? “That burst of energy — zoomies included — is normal and healthy,” states Dr. McGuire. Structured play, mental stimulation, and short walks help channel energy productively. 

But if your puppy seems consistently lethargic, that is a concern. Prolonged low energy should prompt a call to your vet, as puppies can decline quickly. 

Biting, chewing, and early habits 

Play biting is cute when puppies are small, says Dr. McGuire, but if encouraged, it can become problematic later. Rather than punishing the behavior, redirecting with toys and disengaging your attention helps puppies learn to behave appropriately. 

As for dental care? Good habits start early. Getting puppies comfortable with having their mouths handled makes tooth brushing easier later on. Dr. McGuire also recommends brushing several times a week and choosing chew toys that have some give. 

Give yourself grace 

So what special piece of advice does Dr. McGuire give clients? Give yourself grace. There will be hard nights and frustrating moments, but bringing home a puppy is one of the most rewarding experiences there is.

Puppyhood is messy, magical, and fleeting. With preparation, prevention, and patience, those early weeks lay the foundation for a healthier, happier life together. 

Important Notice: The information provided on this page is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a veterinarian with any questions regarding your pet's health or medical condition. Never disregard or delay seeking professional veterinary advice based on information from this page.