The First Week: Excitement Meets Reality

Bringing a puppy home is like welcoming a new baby into the family. They’re adorable, playful, and endlessly curious — but also vulnerable, needy, and unpredictable. The first week is when your puppy begins to understand their new world, and you begin to understand the realities of dog parenthood.

Expect sleepless nights, potty accidents, and a fair amount of whining. But also expect tail wags, cuddles, and the start of a lifelong bond. The key to surviving — and enjoying — this first week is preparation, patience, and consistency.

Step 1: Puppy-Proof Your Home

Before your puppy arrives, do a sweep of your home to remove potential hazards. Think of your pup as a toddler with sharp teeth and a strong nose:

• Hide electrical cords or use cord protectors.

• Remove toxic plants like lilies, aloe vera, or sago palm.

• Lock away cleaning chemicals and medications.

• Put shoes, socks, and kids’ toys out of reach.

Tip: Puppies love to chew while teething. Provide safe chew toys early, so they learn what’s acceptable. If they grab something forbidden, swap it with a toy instead of scolding — redirection works better than punishment.

Step 2: Surviving the First Night

Don’t be surprised if your puppy cries or whines at night. They’ve just left their mother and littermates — it’s their first time alone. To ease this transition:

• Use a crate with blankets and toys to mimic a den.

• Place a worn T-shirt near them for comfort through your scent.

• Some owners use a ticking clock wrapped in a towel, imitating a heartbeat, which helps calm anxiety.

Avoid bringing your puppy into your bed too soon — it complicates potty training. Instead, place their crate in your bedroom so they feel close but stay secure.

Step 3: Potty Training — Where HoneyCare Pads Shine

Potty training is the number one stress point in the first week. Puppies have tiny bladders and no control — they need to go every 2–3 hours, even at night.

Here’s how to set your pup up for success:

1. Pick a potty spot. Outdoors is ideal, but if you live in an apartment or have limited access, designate an indoor potty area.

2. Use HoneyCare Dog Pads. These pads contain natural attractants that guide puppies to use them, while their super-absorbent layers lock in liquid and odors — protecting your floors and saving you cleanup stress.

3. Establish a routine. Take your puppy to the pad or outdoor spot after meals, naps, and play. Use a cue like “Go potty.” When they succeed, praise and reward immediately.

4. Supervise and confine. If you can’t watch your pup, place them in their crate or a small area with a HoneyCare pad. This reduces random accidents around the house.

💡 Pro Tip: Leave one used pad in place during training. Puppies rely heavily on scent and are more likely to return to the same spot.

Step 4: Feeding and Sleep Routines

Puppies need structure to feel secure. That means feeding at the same times daily (2–4 meals depending on age). This not only ensures proper growth but also helps predict potty times.

Expect your puppy to sleep 18–20 hours a day. Yes, they’ll crash suddenly in the middle of play. Provide a quiet crate or bed where they can nap undisturbed.

Step 5: Alone Time and Separation Training

Many new dog parents make the mistake of never leaving their puppy alone during the first week. While it’s tempting, this can create dependence and future separation anxiety.

Start small: place your pup in their crate with a chew toy and leave the room for 5 minutes. Gradually increase to 10, 20, 30 minutes. Return calmly — don’t make arrivals or departures a big deal.

By the end of the first week, your pup should begin to learn that alone time is safe and that you always come back.

Step 6: First Vet Visit and Socialization

Book a vet appointment within the first week. Your vet will check for parasites, begin vaccinations, and guide you on diet and training.

Socialization should also start early — but carefully. Expose your puppy to new sounds, people, and safe environments. Wait for your vet’s approval before meeting other dogs, to avoid disease risk.

FAQs About Puppy’s First Week

Q: My puppy keeps peeing inside, what do I do?

A: Don’t punish. Instead, clean the area thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner to remove the smell, and guide them back to their puppy pads or outdoor potty spot. Consistency and patience are key.

Q: How do I handle nighttime crying?

A: Comfort without coddling. Place the crate near your bed, give them a toy or blanket with your scent, and reassure with a calm voice. Most puppies settle within 1–2 weeks.

Q: How long does potty training take?

A: Most puppies start to get the hang of it by 12–16 weeks. Using pads and keeping a strict routine accelerates the process.

Q: When should I start obedience training?

A: From day one! Start with simple commands like “sit” and “come.” Keep sessions short, positive, and reward-based.

Final Thoughts

The first week with your puppy sets the tone for your life together. It will be messy, noisy, and exhausting — but it’s also the foundation of trust and love.

With preparation, consistency, and tools like HoneyCare Dog Pads, you can turn common struggles like potty accidents into manageable (and even bonding) experiences. Remember: every small effort you make in the first week pays off in years of good habits and a stronger bond with your pup.