🐾 First Night Home Tips

Bringing your new puppy home is an exciting milestone, but the first night can be a little overwhelming for both of you. Here are a few tips to make the transition smoother:

Create a Safe Space

Set up a small, quiet area like a playpen or crate in a low-traffic room.

Include their familiar blanket (with litter scent), a safe chew toy, and a soft surface to sleep on.

If You Want Puppy to Sleep in Bed With You:

We understand some families want to co-sleep right away-and that's absolutely recommended! We can’t sleep without our dogs so we get it!! Just set clear boundaries.

- Make sure it's intentional and not a response to crying.

- Take your puppy out to potty right before bed and again first thing in the morning. 

-You may need to set your alarm every 3 hours to take puppy potty. 8 weeks old is too young to expect them to hold it 8 hours. Although, we do our best to get them sleeping through the night. However, it is common, that first week they will go potty at least one time during the early morning. 

- Be mindful of rolling over or covers that could shift. 

- Remember, whatever routine you start now, your puppy will expect later-so set it with purpose.

- Don’t over think it! Having your puppy sleep in bed with you can also help them potty train quicker. Puppies ideally don’t potty where they sleep. 

Expect Whining—It’s Normal

Your puppy just left us, their siblings, and mama so be patient. They may be scared and nervous. 

Avoid picking them up every time they cry. Reassure with your voice or a gentle touch, not by removing them from the crate.

A white noise sound machine nearby can help soothe them. In fact, your puppy has been sleeping with one since birth. 😴

Stick to the Schedule

Follow the feeding and potty routine they are used to. Puppies thrive on predictability, it helps their brains make connections faster. This helps them feel secure.

Take them out for a potty break right before bedtime (and first thing in the morning).

Bedtime Routine

Keep lights low and voices calm after 8–9 PM.

Avoid exciting play close to bedtime. Calm cuddles are perfect.

Add a cover to their crate

Use the sound machine!!!!! Your puppy can hear every little sound! This will be a holy grail for getting puppy to sleep through the night.

No Food or Water Before Bed

Remove food and water about 2 hours before bedtime to reduce overnight accidents.

No running and playing after they eat dinner. Wait at least an hour for their tummy to digest before playtime. 

Middle-of-the-Night Potty Breaks

Set an alarm for every 2.5–3 hours the first few nights.

Be all business: Go out, potty, praise/treat, back to bed.

🤍 Keep it Positive

Your calm confidence helps your puppy adjust. Be patient and kind.

They’re learning. You’re bonding. You’ve got this.

Routine reinforces positive behaviors and prevents unwanted habits from forming. Chaos leads to confusion, and confusion often leads to destructive or anxious behavior.

Well-raised adult dogs are calm, confident, and obedient, because they had consistent expectations from the start. Remember…You’re not just raising a puppy, you’re shaping who they’ll be for the next 12–15 years. 

Need help? Text us anytime during your first week home!