Bringing a Puppy Home: Your First-Week Checklist

Bringing home a new puppy is one of life's great joys — and, let's be honest, a little chaotic. Those first few days set the tone for everything that follows, so a bit of preparation makes a world of difference to how quickly your puppy settles. Here's your practical first-week checklist.

Before they arrive: the essentials

Have these ready before pick-up day so you're not scrambling:

• A bed. A cosy, supportive calming bed with raised sides helps a nervous puppy feel secure in their new home.
• Bowls. Sort feeding and water from day one — our Feeding & Bowls range has everything, and if your pup eats fast, an anti-gulp slow feeder starts good habits early.
• Food storage. Keep their food fresh in an airtight container.
• A harness & lead. A comfortable, adjustable harness is gentler on a growing puppy than a collar-only lead.
• Toys for teething & enrichment. Safe chew and puzzle toys from our Pet Toys range soothe sore gums and keep busy minds occupied.
• Poo bags, wipes and cleaning supplies — you'll need more than you think.

Day one: keep it calm

Resist the urge to invite everyone round. Let your puppy explore quietly, show them where their bed, water and toilet spot are, and keep first introductions gentle. Expect some whining the first few nights — it's normal as they adjust to being away from their litter.

The first week: routine is everything

• Toilet training. Take them out frequently — after waking, eating, playing and every hour or two — and reward every success outside. Consistency is key.
• Feeding routine. Stick to the food they were weaned on at first, feeding little and often, and change brands gradually if needed to avoid upset tummies.
• Sleep. Puppies need a lot of it — up to 18–20 hours a day. Give them a quiet, safe space to rest undisturbed.
• Gentle socialisation. Positive, calm exposure to new sounds, surfaces and gentle handling builds a confident adult dog.

Book your vet visit

Arrange a first vet check-up early to confirm vaccinations, worming and microchipping (a legal requirement for dogs in the UK), and to discuss neutering and pet insurance.

Set them up in one go

Want to cover the basics in a single order? The Mealtime Set handles feeding, and The Calm & Cosy Set gives your puppy a snug, settled place to sleep. Browse everything for your new arrival in our Dogs collection.

This article is general guidance and isn't a substitute for veterinary advice. Always consult your vet about vaccinations, diet and your puppy's individual needs.