Give your dog a head start on a happy life by making his first day a great one. Your puppy's first day in your home is one of the most important times in his young life. Try to make it one of his best days. It's very important for your dog to be wearing an ID tag from the first day he is at your home.  Before you bring your new dog or puppy home, have the tag ready for him. If you haven't chosen a name for your dog yet, just put your address and phone number on it.The first thing you are going to want to do is hold your puppy. You might want to hold him all the time. But it is very important for your puppy to have a chance to meet the other people in your family. He also needs to explore his new home. Holding your puppy is important so he learns to love you, but on the first day, hold him only a few minutes at a time. You and your parents should get your house ready before your pup comes home.

Puppy-Proof Your House:

Make sure cords and wires are not where your dog can reach them. Place trash in cupboards or have your parents get trash cans with lids. Clear off tables that your pup might reach.   Have a couple of toys ready for your dog to play with. He may not want to play the first day, but they will be there if he does. Have a place for your dog to sleep. A crate makes a good bed. When your puppy is resting, he can be in a private place where no one will bother him. If you don't have a crate, put his bed somewhere that is cozy, comfortable, and private for him. Your pup will probably need to go to the bathroom soon after he arrives. It would be a good idea to take him outside before he begins to explore your home. Praise him when he goes. Give your new dog time to explore your house, but don't leave him alone. You can stand behind him and follow him to the places he wants to go.  Be very gentle. Only hold him a little bit.

Joining The Family

The best place for your new dog to meet your other dog for the first time is outside--in your yard (fenced) or in a park (on a leash). When they are comfortable with each other, bring them indoors.

Quiet, Please!

Your puppy will do better if your house is quiet. Loud noises may scare him. Later, when he is used to your house, you can introduce new sounds slowly. Give your pup some water right away if he's thirsty. Wait and give your dog some food after he has been home for a while and is feeling more comfortable. Don't forget to let him outside every time he drinks or eats. See 'Housebreaking Your Dog' for tips. It is very important to know what Humane means:Humane means acting kind, gentle, and generous toward your pets. Your new puppy needs to feel safe at all times. You can help him to feel that way by being humane to him.