The first night
Expect a difficult first night. The puppy has left their mother and littermates and is in a strange place. A crate beside your bed (so they can hear you breathe) with a warm water bottle wrapped in a blanket and an item of your clothing works better than a crate across the room. Expect some crying. Do not leave them to cry for extended periods.
Crate training
A crate is not a punishment — it is a den. The goal is a dog who chooses to go to their crate. Start by feeding meals inside the crate, never force them in, and build duration gradually. A dog who is comfortable in a crate is safer, easier to transport, and much less likely to develop separation anxiety.
The first veterinary visit
Book within 48–72 hours of collection — both to check health and to begin the vaccination schedule. Bring any paperwork from the breeder. Use our free new puppy checklist to make sure everything is in order before the appointment.
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