Bringing Your Doodle Puppy Home: A Simple Checklist
The countdown to go-home day is so exciting. A little planning makes the first week calmer for you and your puppy. Here's a simple checklist from our family to yours.
What to buy before pickup
- A crate sized for your puppy now, ideally with a divider so it can grow
- Soft bedding you don't mind washing
- Food and water bowls
- Puppy food. Ask us what your puppy is eating so you can keep it the same at first.
- A collar or harness and leash
- Chew toys for teething
- A slicker brush and comb for that doodle coat
- Enzyme cleaner for potty accidents
- Baby gates or a playpen to keep puppy in a safe space
Puppy-proof your home
Get down on the floor and look around. Tuck away cords, shoes, kids' small toys and anything chewable. Keep cleaning products and human foods out of reach. Make sure fences and gates are secure.
The first day
Keep it calm. Take your puppy straight to their potty spot, then show them their crate and water. Limit visitors for the first few days so your puppy can settle in.
The first week
- Stick to a routine. Meals, potty breaks, naps and play at about the same times each day.
- Potty often. After waking up, after eating, after playing and every hour or two while awake.
- Lots of naps. Puppies sleep a lot, and kids need to let them.
- Short, happy training. A few minutes at a time on their name, sit and crate time.
- See your vet. Schedule a wellness visit in the first days home.
Our puppies start potty and crate training before they leave us, so you're not starting from zero. Keep the same routine going and you'll see progress fast.
We're here for you
Every Dainty Doodles family gets lifetime support, so reach out any time. Still looking for your puppy? See our upcoming litters and waitlist, read how our puppy process works, or send us an inquiry.
Quick answers
What should a puppy eat the first week?
Keep your puppy on the same food they were eating with us at first, then change slowly if you need to. Ask your vet about anything specific.
Where should my puppy sleep?
In a crate near your bed works well for most puppies. It helps them feel safe and makes nighttime potty trips easier.
When can my puppy go to dog parks?
Wait until your vet says your puppy's vaccinations are complete before dog parks and busy trails.
Ready to meet your puppy?
Tell us a little about your family and what you're hoping for. Lauren reads every note herself. Send an inquiry or see the waitlists.
Families we help
We also welcome families from Sacramento, Roseville and Rocklin, Auburn and Placer County, Folsom and El Dorado Hills, the Bay Area.
More helpful reading: Mini Goldendoodle puppies, Mini Bernedoodle puppies, How our puppy process works, Choosing a doodle breeder.