Prepare for a safe, healthy start

Before your puppy arrives

• Prepare a quiet, safe resting area and secure any hazards, cords, medicines, chemicals, and small objects.
• Ask what food the puppy currently eats and how to transition gradually if needed.
• Arrange a veterinary appointment and bring all available health records.
• Prepare bowls, suitable bedding, a secure harness or collar, lead, cleaning supplies, and safe enrichment toys.
• Confirm the handover plan, emergency contact, and transport arrangements.

Feeding and hydration

Follow an age-appropriate feeding plan and provide access to fresh water. Ask your veterinarian about portioning, body condition, treats, and any dietary concerns. Avoid sudden diet changes unless advised for a medical reason.

Veterinary care

Request records of care already provided, including any vaccination or parasite-control information, and ask what follow-up is due. Your veterinarian can recommend a schedule based on the puppy’s age, history, location, and risk factors.

Settling in and training

Keep the first days calm, offer frequent toilet breaks, reward desired behaviour, and create a predictable sleep routine. Introduce new people and environments gradually and safely. Do not punish accidents; focus on supervision and consistency.

When to seek help

Contact a veterinarian promptly if your puppy seems unusually weak, has repeated vomiting or diarrhoea, struggles to breathe, refuses food or water, or otherwise appears seriously unwell. If you are worried, professional advice is safer than relying on online guidance.

Questions to ask us

Ask for the puppy’s confirmed age and sex, current food and routine, available veterinary records, any care already provided, and advice about the transition from the current home.