Your Dog's First Week Home
6 min read
The first week is 90% patience, 10% logistics. Skip the party — dogs are exhausted after transport and need routine.
Day 1 Arrive during daylight. Walk your dog to their potty spot before entering. Show them their crate, bed, water. Keep visitors away.
Day 2-3 Feed, potty, and nap on a strict clock. Same meals, same route. Introduce one room per day.
Day 4-5 Short training sessions (5 min, 3x/day). Practice name and sit. Reward every potty outside.
Day 6-7 Introduce leash walks around the block. Book a vet check for week 2.
Common mistake Too much affection can trigger anxiety in the first days. Give calm confidence, not smothering.