How to Welcome Your New Dog Home

So, you’ve found your perfect pup, your new dog—maybe a bouncy Labrador or a chill French Bulldog—and now it’s time to bring it home.

Like I shared in the previous article, "What Your New Dog at Home Teaches You in the First Week," after years of welcoming dogs into my life, I can tell you those first days are a wild mix of excitement, chaos, and a little “what did I get myself into?”

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned pro, getting this part right sets the tone for everything. It’s not just about tossing out a bowl of kibble and calling it a day—there’s a knack to helping your new buddy feel safe, loved, and part of the family.

Let’s walk through what to do when those paws hit your floor, from prepping your place to celebrating the little wins. Trust me, I’ve learned this stuff the hard way so you don’t have to!

Also, at the end of the article is a checklist. 

Before They Arrive: Set the Stage For You New Dog

Picture this: your new dog walks in, tail wagging, and you’re scrambling to find a water bowl. I’ve been there—it’s not a great start. 

Before they show up, get the basics ready.

Grab some food (stick with what they’ve been eating at the shelter or breeder for now), a couple of sturdy bowls, a collar with an ID tag (put your name and number on it right away), and a leash.

Remember, you're new to your new dog you brought to a home that's also new to the dog, so it's not uncommon for a new dog to run off. This is why you want a collar with an ID tag with your name and number on it right up front.

I’d also toss in a few toys, like a chew toy or a ball or a frisbee, to keep them busy.

Just be aware, dogs like kids can be finicky. What one dog loves another dog may not. Unfortunately, it could be a process of trial and error finding the toys and items they'll like.

Oh, and poop bags—trust me, you’ll need ‘em fast. You might want to throw in a poop scoop too.

Then, carve out a safe spot. I’ve always loved setting up a quiet corner with a bed or a blanket—somewhere they can hide out if the newness gets overwhelming.

If you’re into crates, that works too—just make it cozy. One time, I skipped this, and my pup spent day one under the couch. Lesson learned: give them a home base.

Next, dog-proof your place. Seriously!

Think like a curious toddler with teeth—hide those dangling cords, tuck away the trash, and stash anything toxic, like cleaners or that houseplant you swore you’d water.

I lost a shoe once because I didn’t think a pup could reach the counter. Spoiler: they can, and they will. A quick sweep now saves headaches later.

I've also found puppies are more likely to chew on cords and other things than adult dogs.

Day One: Easy Does It

The big moment’s here—they’re home!

First stop: outside. Take them straight to a potty spot—yard, patch of grass, whatever—and cheer like they won an Oscar when they go. 

It’s step one of house training, and it starts the second they arrive.

Then, bring them in, but don’t fling open every door. I’ve found it’s best to let them sniff one room at a time—start with their safe space, then maybe the living room.

My first dog bolted upstairs and got stuck behind a dresser because I let him loose too fast. Slow and steady keeps the stress low.

If you’ve got family, keep it chill. No mob scene of kids or other pets rushing in—introduce one person at a time, letting the dog make the first move. 

I had a pup who hid for hours after my overly excited son charged at him with a hug.

Quiet voices, gentle hands—that’s the ticket.

And if you’ve got another dog or a cat, hold off a bit—give your newbie a day to breathe before the meet-and-greet.

Settling In: Routine Is Your Friend

Dogs love knowing what’s next—it’s like their security blanket.

From day one, set a rhythm:

  • feed them at the same times (twice a day for most),
  • walk them after breakfast,
  • plan other times for your dog to run and get some energy out,
  • bedtime at 10. 

I’ve had dogs who’d stare at the clock like “Where’s my dinner?”—they catch on fast.

Speaking of food, don’t switch it up cold turkey—mix their old stuff with any new brand over a week or so. Any time you switch brands you need to do this. I skipped that once, and let’s just say the carpet paid the price.

Exercise comes next, but keep it right-sized. A high-energy Husky might need a good romp, while a Pug’s happy with a lap around the block.

Bella will play frisbee non-stop until we actually put a stop to it. Admittedly, we've played too long a few times and that girl was pooped out for a while just sleeping. But even being completely worn out, if Laura gets up to go anywhere, Bella follows!

Play it by ear and toss in some fun—maybe a ball or a chew toy—to start that bond. Just don’t push them too hard—they’re still figuring you out.

Bella's favorite toy is her Kong frisbee. We went through a lot of those plastic frisbees until we learned about this one. Bella really likes it, and we love how strong and durable it is.

The First Week: Build Trust With Your New Dog

Within a few days, get to the vet.

I always aim for a checkup that first week—shots, a once-over health check, maybe a microchip if they don’t have one.

Bring any papers from the shelter or breeder so you’re not guessing. It’s peace of mind, plus you’ll catch anything sneaky early.

While you’re at it, slap that ID tag on their collar—your name, your phone # —and double-check the microchip’s registered. I've heard of many people having a dog slip out the door and that tag saved them.

Start training too—nothing fancy, just “sit,” “stay,” or their name with a treat.

It’s less about tricks and more about talking to each other.

The last puppy I had some years ago learned “sit” on day two, and it felt like we were already a team. We got Bella when she was 13 mo's old and she already knew quite a few things like sit, lay, and shake.

Watch their vibe, though—pacing, whining, or hidden meanings they’re stressed.

Back off a little if they’re not ready. And give them time—some dogs strut in like they own the place, others take weeks to unclench.

When we brought Bella home we already had a busy household with one of our kids and his wife and 2 kids living downstairs, and Laura and I and 2 grandkids living upstairs with 3 cats. It took her about 3 days to really warm up to us. She bonded with Laura first!

Patience is your superpower here.

Alone Time and Beyond

You can’t be glued to them forever, so ease into alone time.

Leave for 5 minutes—grab the mail, fake a phone call—then come back casual, no big fuss. Build it up slow so they know you’re not gone for good.

I messed this up once, left a new dog all day, and came home to a real mess in the house... garbage everywhere (got into the garbage can), diapers torn up and all over the place (got into the diaper garbage can too). It was gross!

Start small, and they’ll get it.

Socializing’s on the horizon too, but not yet—skip the dog park that first week.

Let them settle, then maybe a calm friend’s dog after a bit. Keep an eye on how they act—some love it, some don’t.

And jot down the little things—a photo, when they eat, where they poop. Sounds nerdy, but it’s gold for the vet or if you need a sitter.

Roll With It—and Celebrate

Here’s the real talk: stuff will go wrong. A chewed sock, a puddle on the rug, a midnight bark fest—I’ve seen it all.

Take a breath, clean it up, move on.

Do NOT punish the dog, do not spank the dog, do NOT yell at the dog. The dog is new to your home and is trying to figure things out, and is trying to figure out what to do and where to do it. With training and lots of love, these initial problems will go away.

Stock up on patience, because those hiccups are just part of the deal.

But the wins? Oh, they’re sweet. The first time they flop next to you, nail a “sit,” or wag that tail like you’re their whole world—mark those moments. I still grin thinking about my last dog’s first belly rub request. That’s why we do this.

Your New Adventure

Bringing a dog home is a big deal, but it’s not rocket science—just prep, pace yourself, and pour in a lot of love. 

You’ve got the safe space, the routine, the vet lined up—now it’s about building that bond. My first dog turned my place upside down, but every mess taught me something.

What’s your new pup like? Drop a story below—I’d love to hear how it’s going!


Checklist Of Things You Should Do When You Bring a New Dog Home

  1. Prepare a Safe Space
    • Set up a quiet corner or crate with a bed, blanket, and water—somewhere the dog can retreat to if overwhelmed.
  2. Gather Essential Supplies
    • Stock up on food (same brand they’re used to at first), bowls, a collar/ID tag, leash, toys, and poop bags before they arrive.
  3. Dog-Proof the House
    • Hide cords, secure trash, stash toxic plants (e.g., lilies), and lock away meds or cleaners—pups explore with their mouths.
  4. Introduce Slowly to the Home
    • Let them sniff one room at a time, starting outside (potty spot), then indoors—don’t flood them with the whole house.
  5. Meet the Family Gradually
    • Keep it calm—one person at a time, no loud kids or pets rushing in. Let the dog approach on their terms.
  6. Set a Routine
    • Start a schedule for feeding, walks, and bedtime right away—dogs thrive on predictability.
  7. Take Them for a Potty Break
    • Head outside immediately to a designated spot—praise them when they go to kick off house training.
  8. Visit the Vet
    • Book a checkup within a week—shots, microchip, health baseline. Bring any shelter/breeder records.
  9. Start Basic Training
    • Teach “sit,” “stay,” or their name with treats—builds trust and communication from day one.
  10. Give Them Time to Adjust
    • Expect shyness, accidents, or zoomies—give them a few days (or weeks) to settle without pushing too hard.
  11. Introduce Food Gradually
    • Mix their old food with new over 5-7 days—avoids tummy upset from a sudden switch.
  12. Exercise Appropriately
    • Short walks or play sessions based on their energy—don’t overdo it with a pup or underdo it with a high-energy breed.
  13. Secure Identification
    • Attach an ID tag (name, your number) and microchip them—lost dogs happen, especially early on.
  14. Watch for Stress Signs
    • Look out for pacing, whining, or hiding—adjust your approach if they’re freaked out.
  15. Bond Through Play
    • Toss a ball, offer a chew toy—quiet fun builds your connection without overwhelming them.
  16. Plan for Alone Time
    • Leave them briefly (5-10 minutes) and build up—helps them learn you’ll come back.
  17. Socialize Carefully
    • Hold off on dog parks or big meetups—start with a calm friend’s dog after a week or two.
  18. Document the Basics
    • Snap a photo, note their habits (e.g., feeding times, potty spots)—handy for vet visits or sitters.
  19. Stock Up on Patience
    • Accidents, chewed shoes, or barking are normal—breathe deep and roll with it.
  20. Celebrate the Wins
    • First tail wag, first “sit”—mark those little moments to keep the joy alive.

Products You'll Likely Need To Purchase When Bringing A New Puppy/Dog Home

Likely, you'll need to purchase a number of things for your new puppy/dog you'll be bringing home. Here's a list of products to consider... do you already have the item? Is it something you need? Look the list over and purchase what you need.

I find the dog you have can dictate some of your choices. For example, if you have a big dog you need a really strong collar, not some cute chintzy thing. Or you may find like we found with Bella that for walks you'll need a full-blown harness, especially in the early days when the dog doesn't come back to you when called.

Dog size often matters on what you get and is something you'll need to take into consideration.

  • Dog Food: Essential for daily feeding—stick with their current brand at first to avoid tummy issues. If you switch foods, mix the old food with the new food for a week to make the transition to the new food.
    • There are a lot of food choices. Ask 100 people and you'll likely get 70 recommendations.
    • Wet food or dry food? Or both?
    • You can setup a subscription to have the food shipped to you monthly. It's what we've done, and many thousands of other people do also.
    • Because there are so many choices, we plan to write an article on the different options and key things you need to know when selecting the food you'll be feeding your new furry family member.
  • Food and Water Bowls: Sturdy ones for meals and hydration—metal or ceramic are popular picks.
  • Collar: For walks and ID—adjustable, durable ones are popular.
  • ID Tag: Name and your contact info—small but critical for safety.
    • This is a must! Dogs get out of the yard. They run off. They chase things. It's any number of things that could have your dog roaming the city. It's the same with cats taking off. Get an ID on your furry family member so if they do get out and roam the city, some nice person who finds them will have a way of contacting you!
  • Leash: Basic for walks—6-foot standard or retractable options are hot. We've got 3 with each serving a different purpose.
    • If you've got a medium or large dog, if it pulls you'll want one with a cushion in the hand grip. We have one of these and love it!
    • Retractable leashes are popular, we've got one of them too. We will also use this one for our cat when we take her out for a walk. Yes, we'll take our cat for a walk too.
    • A few recommendations (FYI, when you have choices of length, go for the 6 ft):
      • BAAPET 2/4/5/6 FT Dog Leash with Comfortable Padded Handle - Padded handle which is important if you have a dog that pulls, which is common until you train them not to. Highly reflective full length, 1/2" thick to support large dogs. 5 sizes to choose from (get longest for thickness you want), 17 color choices.
      • GEIT 2/4/5/6FT Dog Leash - The standout for this leash is I really like the clasp! Has a padded handle (really like the padded handle), highly reflective full length, 1/2" thick to support large dogs. 4 sizes to choose from (get longest for thickness you want), 7 color choices.
      • Taglory Rope Dog Leash 6 ft - Has a padded handle (really like the padded handle), highly reflective full length, 1/2" thick to support large dogs. 6 sizes to choose from (get longest for thickness you want), 12 color choices.
      • NEW 2025 Heavy Duty Retractable Dog Leash 16.4 ft - Heavy Duty. 2 choices, pets from 0-50 lbs and pets from 0-110 lbs
      • TUG 360° Tangle-Free Retractable Dog Leash-16 ft - Tangle-Free, one-handed brake, has a lock so no more can come out so you control the distance. Very popular, over 107,000 rated this product and has a 4.5 rating.
  • Dog Bed: Comfy spot to sleep—tons of styles (orthopedic, plush) to pitch.
    • Here's the dog bed Bella has. It's not surprising it's one of the biggest sellers!
    • Orthopedic beds are also really popular.
    • Beds we recommend:
  • Blanket: Extra coziness for their safe space—fleece or washable ones move fast.
    • We don't buy anything specific as a blanket for Bella. That's because she chews on her blanket and needs a new one come Christmas. Guess what we always get Bella for Christmas? A blanket!
  • Crate (Optional): For training or a den-like retreat—foldable metal or stylish ones have affiliate potential. A crate is a good "cave" for a dog to retreat to because it protects the dog on 3 sides. A crate has been a good "safe spot" for millions of dogs. You don't need to close it, if you don't want to. Just use it as a "safe place".
    • Here are few recommendations:
      • Durable, Foldable Metal Wire Dog Crate - Your standard stationary crate. You can turn this into a safe space by putting a blanket covering all of the sides except the front where the dog enters. 9 sizes to choose from, and offers a single or double door options.
      • DWANTON Dog Crate Furniture with Cushion - The uniqueness to this crate is it can double as furniture; the top looks and functions like a counter. It's attractive looking and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb in the room you place it in. 4 sizes to choose from and 10 color choices.
      • SportPet Designs Plastic Kennels Rolling Plastic Wire Door Travel Dog Crate - This is for traveling. It's also got wheels so you can pull/push your pet around and not have to carry it. Very helpful for larger dogs. 5 sizes to choose from.
  • Toys: Chew toys, balls, or squeakers—variety keeps pups happy and affiliates rolling.
    • The Kong frisbee is by far Bella's favorite.
    • Often it's a trial-and-error process to find the toy your dog will like.
    • Most of the "toys" we get Bella she'll destroy within the hour of getting it.
  • Poop Bags: Must-have for cleanup—biodegradable ones are a trendy sell.
  • Treats: For training or bonding—high-value options like freeze-dried or natural treats are affiliate staples.
    • We've tried all kinds of treats for Bella. She's only liked 2. Her favorite is my beef jerky! So we tried a beef jerky dog treat and she loves them!
    • Because of Bella's love of beef jerky (I think every dog loves beef jerky) we found an amazing treat for her, which we also use when training: Full Moon All Natural Essentials Beef Jerky Tenders
  • Chew Toy: Specific callout from “Bond Through Play”—durable ones (e.g., Kong) are big earners.
    • This is different than toys because it's specifically "chew" toys.
  • Microchip (Optional): Vet-installed, but some retailers sell kits—niche but profitable if you find a partner.

There you go, a good list of possible products you may need for your new fellow or lady. Hope the list helps.

I know I've really appreciated the pages I've read over the years where they provided a link to the product they were talking about so I could see exactly what they were talking about. I found that really helpful so I'm assuming and hoping you found it helpful also.

Start Training Your Puppy On Day 1 And Experience The Joys Of Having An Amazing Companion

Finally, the best time to start training your new dog is when they're a puppy, and on day 1 of bringing your new puppy home! For example, one type of training you absolutely want to make sure you do is "socialization training".

If you have a large dog, or a dog that inherently protects like a German Shepherd, Doberman, and a Rottweiler, to name a few, you must socialize them. The best advice I got from a trainer when I first started owning German Shepherds is, "You want your dog to trust everyone, and then you TEACH the dog who not to trust. This creates a great family dog that you can take out in public and not worry about attacking people and dogs for no reason, and then the training teaches the dog how to protect you."

Many have made the serious mistake of not socializing their new dog and regretted it later on simply because they didn't know any better. Thankfully, there are courses to fix this.

But why put yourself in that position? Just start doing the proper training right up front starting day 1.

Training your puppy gets them off on the right foot before they have a chance to take on any bad habits. Believe me, it's far easier to train them upfront before they develope any bad habits, than trying to fix bad habits already ingrained in them. Check out End The Frustrations – New Puppy Nightmares Training.

This is one of the reasons Laura and I have always had such amazing dogs... we start training them day 1 when we get them. The difference this has made has been monumental!

Do yourself and your new puppy a huge service and start training your dog immediately.

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