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A puppy in a Teddy Maximus bed with a personalised Teddy Maximus harness and blanket

First Week With Your Puppy: A Complete Survival Guide for New Puppy Parents 🐾

Bringing home a new puppy is equal parts exciting, emotional and slightly chaotic.
The first week sets the foundation for your puppy’s bond with you as well as finding their confidence.

Whether you’re a first-time puppy parent or just need a refresher, this guide will walk
you through exactly what to expect during your puppy’s first week at home, plus the must-have essentials to make the transition smoother for both of you.

Dog sleeping on a pillow with 'Bella' embroidered on it, next to a plush toy in harness also embroidered with name.

Days 2–3: Establishing a Routine

Puppies thrive on predictability. A consistent routine helps them feel safe and
accelerates potty training.

Focus On:

  • Feeding at the same times daily
  • Regular toilet breaks
  • Short play sessions followed by naps
'The Richmond' Luxury Taupe Oval Dog Bed

Puppy Essentials to Have Ready

  • Stainless steel, ceramic or non-slip food and water bowls
  • High-quality puppy food appropriate for their age and breed size
  • Training treats for positive reinforcement

✨ Reward your puppy immediately after good behaviour—timing is everything.

Dog drinking from a ceramic bowl with a heart design on a carpeted floor.

Days 4–5: Potty Training & Gentle Training

Accidents will happen. That’s normal and expected.

Potty Training Basics:

  • Take your puppy out after sleeping, eating or playing
  • Praise enthusiastically for success
  • Never punish accidents—redirect instead

Training Tools That Help:

  • Enzyme-based pet stain and odour removers (a lifesaver)
  • Treat pouches to keep rewards handy
  • Chew toys to redirect teething and prevent furniture damage

Chewing is not bad behaviour—it’s how puppies learn and self-soothe.

Woman holding a small dog in a cozy indoor setting with decorative elements and a dog bed in the corner of the image.

Days 6–7: Bonding & Socialisation

By now your puppy should be settling in and starting to show their personality!

Build Trust By:

  • Gentle handling (paws, ears, mouth)
  • Short car rides
  • Calm exposure to household and everyday sounds

Great Products for This Stage:

  • Interactive toys to stimulate growing minds
  • Lightweight harnesses for safe leash practice
  • Soft grooming tools to introduce brushing early

🧡 Keep sessions short and positive—end on a win
whenever possible.

Common First-Week Puppy Mistakes to Avoid

  • Too much freedom too soon
  • Skipping naps (overtired puppies get
    wild)
  • Inconsistent rules
  • Overwhelming social introductions

Remember: your puppy is learning everything for the first time.

Teddy Maximus is awarded a Finalist position in the Nectar Small Business Awards

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