You Got a Puppy. Now What?

Bringing home a new puppy is equal parts magic and chaos. One minute you are crying over how cute their tiny paws are. The next minute you are Googling “is it normal for puppies to bite everything” at 2 a.m. If you are feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. Here is a realistic, millennial friendly guide to what to do when you get a new puppy, without the guilt, judgment, or impossible standards.

Prep Your Space Like a Puppy Parent Pro

Before your puppy arrives, do a quick walk through of your home from their eye level. If it looks chewable, it probably is. Pick up loose cords, shoes, and houseplants. Set up a safe area with a crate or playpen, a comfy bed, food and water bowls, and a few durable toys. This gives your puppy a home base and gives you a break when you need one.

Schedule the Vet Visit ASAP

One of your first stops should be the veterinarian. Puppies need a series of vaccines, parasite prevention, and a general health check early on. Your vet can also help you choose the right food, talk about spay or neuter timing, and answer all the questions you forgot to ask while panicking over puppy breath.

Start a Routine on Day One

Puppies thrive on predictability, even if they pretend they do not. Feed them at the same times each day. Take them outside frequently, especially after meals, naps, and playtime. A consistent routine helps with house training and reduces anxiety for both of you.

Socialization Is Everything

The world is big and weird to a puppy. Introduce them slowly to new people, sounds, surfaces, and experiences. This does not mean overwhelming them. Think short, positive exposures with lots of praise and treats. Puppy socialization classes can be a great way to build confidence while also teaching basic manners.

Training Starts Now, Not Later

You do not need to teach your puppy advanced tricks right away, but basic training should start early. Focus on simple cues like sit, come, and leave it. Use positive reinforcement and keep sessions short. Puppies have the attention span of a TikTok scroll.

Expect Biting, Accidents, and Chaos

Puppies bite. Puppies have accidents. Puppies will test your patience in ways you did not know were possible. This is normal. Redirect biting to toys, clean accidents calmly, and remember that consistency beats perfection. You are raising a baby, not a robot.

Take Care of Yourself Too

New puppy life can be exhausting. Sleep deprivation is real. Ask for help when you need it. Use dog walkers, daycare, or trusted friends if possible. A well rested pet parent is a better pet parent.

Build a Relationship, Not Just a Rulebook

At the end of the day, your puppy is learning how to be part of your life. Play with them. Cuddle them. Laugh at the ridiculous moments. Training and structure matter, but so does bonding. These early weeks set the tone for years of companionship.

Getting a new puppy is not about doing everything perfectly. It is about showing up, learning together, and embracing the mess along the way. You have got this.