First Week With a New Puppy: What to Expect and How to Prepare
Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming all at once. The first week sets the tone for your relationship, your routines, and your puppy’s sense of security. If you prepare thoughtfully, your new puppy will adjust more quickly and confidently.
At Champaign Shih Tzu, we have walked many families through this transition with their new Shih Tzu puppies. While every puppy is unique, the early days often follow a similar pattern. Knowing what to expect helps you stay calm, patient, and consistent.
The First 24 Hours With Your New Puppy
The first day with a new puppy is usually a mix of curiosity and uncertainty.
Your puppy has just:
• Left their mother and littermates
• Entered a brand new environment
• Met new people
• Experienced new sounds and smells
Even the most confident new puppy may feel unsure at first. It is completely normal if they seem quieter than expected or a little clingy.
What to focus on during day one:
• Keep the environment calm and low-key
• Introduce one room at a time
• Show them where their sleeping area is
• Begin potty breaks immediately
Your job is to make your new puppy feel safe. Do not overwhelm them with visitors or long outings. The world can wait.
Sleep Patterns in the First Week
Many families are surprised by how much a new puppy sleeps.
Young puppies can sleep 18 to 20 hours per day. Growth and development require rest. However, sleep will be broken up into shorter naps.
Expect:
• Early morning wake-ups
• Middle of the night potty trips
• Short bursts of playful energy
If your new puppy cries at night, remember they are adjusting. Keep their crate or sleeping area nearby so they can sense your presence. Respond calmly and consistently without turning nighttime into playtime.
Potty Training Starts Immediately
The first week is not about perfection. It is about building habits.
Take your new puppy out:
• After waking up
• After eating
• After play
• Every 1 to 2 hours during the day
Accidents will happen. That is part of the process. Stay consistent, reward success, and avoid punishment. A new puppy learns fastest when they feel safe, not scared.
Feeding and Routine
A structured routine helps your new puppy settle faster.
Feed at consistent times each day. Keep water accessible, but monitor intake before bedtime. Predictable routines reduce anxiety and help with potty training.
Your new puppy thrives on knowing what comes next. Meals, playtime, rest, and potty breaks should follow a simple rhythm.
Gentle Social Exposure
The first week is about controlled exposure, not chaos.
It is important that your new puppy begins learning that the world is safe. However, avoid dog parks or high-traffic areas until vaccinations are complete.
Safe exposure ideas:
• Car rides without getting out
• Meeting calm, vaccinated dogs
• Hearing household sounds
• Walking on different safe surfaces
Confidence grows slowly. Your new puppy does not need intensity. They need positive experiences.
Common First Week Challenges
Every new puppy owner wonders at some point if they are doing it right. That is normal.
Here are some common first week concerns:
Crying at Night
Your new puppy is adjusting to sleeping without littermates. Provide comfort, but avoid creating a habit of constant attention during the night.
Nipping and Biting
Puppies explore with their mouths. Redirect gently to toys and avoid rough play with hands.
Short Attention Span
Training sessions should last only a few minutes. Keep them positive and fun.
Temporary Appetite Changes
A new puppy may eat slightly less the first day or two due to stress. If appetite does not normalize quickly, consult your veterinarian.
Building Trust From Day One
The first week is not about teaching dozens of commands. It is about building trust.
Your new puppy learns:
• Whether you are predictable
• Whether you respond calmly
• Whether their needs are met
Speak gently. Move slowly. Create structure. Confidence grows from consistency.
At Champaign Shih Tzu, our puppies are bred from genetically tested AKC adults and raised in a family environment, so they come home with a strong foundation. Even so, the transition into a new home requires patience and reassurance.
Preparing Before Your New Puppy Arrives
Preparation reduces stress for everyone.
Before bringing your new puppy home, make sure you have:
• A crate or safe sleeping area
• Food and water bowls
• High-quality puppy food
• Chew toys
• A leash and collar
• Cleaning supplies for accidents
Set up the space in advance so you are not scrambling on day one.
The calmer you are, the calmer your new puppy will be.
The Emotional Side of the First Week
It is important to say this clearly.
Feeling overwhelmed does not mean you made a mistake.
A new puppy is a commitment, a lifestyle adjustment, and a learning curve. Within a few weeks, routines become natural. Sleep improves. Communication strengthens.
The first week is about adjustment. It is not a final judgment of your ability as a dog owner.
When to Call the Vet
While most first week adjustments are normal, contact your veterinarian if your new puppy shows:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Lethargy beyond normal sleepiness
- Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
- Signs of pain or distress
Trust your instincts. It is always better to ask.
A Foundation for a Lifetime
The first week with a new puppy is short, but it matters. Structure, patience, and gentle leadership create emotional security.
At Champaign Shih Tzu, we believe puppies thrive when raised and transitioned with intention. Families who prepare thoughtfully often see smoother adjustments and stronger bonds.
If you are preparing to welcome a new puppy into your home or have questions about the transition, we are always here to support you. A confident start leads to a lifetime of connection.
FAQ
How long does it take a new puppy to adjust to a new home?
Most puppies begin settling within one to two weeks, though full adjustment can take a month as routines become familiar.
Should I take time off work when bringing home a new puppy?
If possible, yes. Having a few days to establish routines helps your new puppy feel secure and supports early potty training.
Is it normal for a new puppy to cry the first few nights?
Yes. Your new puppy is adjusting to sleeping alone. Consistency and calm reassurance help them adapt.
How much attention does a new puppy need the first week?
A new puppy needs frequent interaction, potty breaks, and supervision. However, they also need plenty of rest.
When should I start basic training with a new puppy?
Training can begin immediately with short, positive sessions focused on simple cues and building trust.
Travel Information
We provide transportation for our puppies and have had 100% success with puppies traveling all over the United States. Ground Transportation costs are usually around $400 to $600 above the cost of the puppy. Flight Nanny trips cost $900 to $1,400. You can contact us to make arrangements. We personally handle all travel details to guarantee that the puppy is provided with safety and the utmost respect.