Realistic Expectations

Understanding the Transition:

What to Expect When Your Pup Comes Home

Bringing a new puppy into your home is an exciting and joyful experience, but it’s important to acknowledge that the journey doesn’t always go as smoothly as it seems in the beginning. You've visited the breeder’s home, admired the playful, social pups, and everything seemed perfect. The puppies were calm in their pens, happy, and well-behaved. You brought your new puppy home, full of anticipation... only to encounter the unexpected.

 

Suddenly, your once-social puppy may be crying in the crate at night, making it hard for you to sleep. The pup who seemed to love people is now shy and hesitant to interact with the half-dozen excited friends you've invited over. Perhaps your new puppy is resisting leash walks, refusing to go outside, or simply not responding as you’d hoped. You might find yourself wondering, How did my perfect puppy turn into a "nightmare"?

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Realistic Expectations for the First Few Weeks with Your New Puppy

While it may feel like a shock, this adjustment period is completely normal and something all puppies experience when they transition from the breeder’s home to their new family. Let’s break down why this happens and what you can do to help your puppy through this transition.

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1. The Puppy’s Transition From Familiar to New

Until now, your puppy has been living in a safe, comfortable, and familiar environment. From the moment of birth, they've been with their mother and littermates, with a consistent routine, clear expectations, and plenty of socialization in a controlled space. These early weeks were crucial in developing your puppy’s sense of security and well-being.

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Now, imagine being transported from everything you’ve ever known into a completely new and unfamiliar environment. To the puppy, it’s as if they’ve been dropped into a completely foreign land—different sounds, smells, sights, and even temperature. It’s not just a new home; it’s an entirely new world to navigate.

Think of it like being dropped into a country where you don’t speak the language, are unfamiliar with the customs, and have no knowledge of the people around you. You're expected to adapt quickly, learn new routines, and figure out what’s expected of you—without knowing how to do it. This experience is stressful, overwhelming, and confusing for a puppy.

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2. Common Stress Reactions in Puppies

Because of this immense transition, puppies may exhibit a variety of stress-related behaviors in the first few days or even weeks in their new home. It’s important to recognize that these behaviors are completely normal, though they can be tough to cope with at times.

• Crating and Sleeping Alone: Some new puppies will cry in their crate during the first few nights. This is their way of expressing anxiety and homesickness. They may feel disoriented and scared being away from their littermates and the safety of their breeder’s home. Patience, reassurance, and positive reinforcement will help them learn that the crate is a safe place.

• Social Hesitation: Your puppy, who was once eager to interact with people, might become more reserved or nervous when meeting new people or experiencing new situations. It’s not that they’ve become “shy” or “unfriendly”; they’re simply adjusting to a new environment and the overwhelming amount of new stimuli. Allowing your puppy to meet new people at their own pace and not forcing interactions will help them feel more comfortable.

• Reluctance to Walk on a Leash: It’s not uncommon for puppies to resist walking on a leash at first. The leash and harness feel unfamiliar, and your puppy might not yet understand the purpose of walking alongside you. With consistent training, positive reinforcement, and a gentle approach, your puppy will gradually learn how to enjoy walks.

• Appetite Changes and Digestive Upset: The stress of the transition can affect your puppy’s eating habits. They might not be as interested in food initially, or they could experience upset stomachs, including diarrhea or vomiting. This is common as their body adjusts to new foods, new routines, and the overall stress of the move. If these symptoms persist, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet, but in most cases, they will pass as your puppy settles in.

• Behavioral Regression: Some puppies may also show signs of regression, such as accidents in the house or chewing on inappropriate items. These behaviors are often a result of stress, confusion, or boredom, and can be addressed with patience and gentle training.

 

3. How to Help Your Puppy Adjust

Understanding what your puppy is going through is the first step in making this transition easier for both of you. Here are some practical steps you can take to help your new puppy feel secure:

• Establish a Consistent Routine: Puppies thrive on routine. Set regular feeding times, potty breaks, play sessions, and bedtime routines. Consistency will help your puppy feel more secure and understand what is expected of them.

• Create a Safe Space: Set up a designated area in your home where your puppy can feel safe and comfortable. This could be a crate, a playpen, or a quiet corner where they can retreat when they need to rest. Avoid overwhelming them with too much stimulation, especially in the first few days.

• Give Plenty of Positive Reinforcement: Reward your puppy with praise, treats, and affection when they exhibit positive behaviors. Whether it's successfully going potty outside, walking a few steps on the leash, or interacting calmly with guests, acknowledging their efforts will help them feel more confident.

• Limit Visitors and Stimulating Activities: While it’s tempting to show off your new puppy to everyone, try to limit the number of visitors and chaotic activities in the first few weeks. Allow your puppy to adjust to their new home without overwhelming them with too much excitement.

• Be Patient and Understanding: Remember that this is a big change for your puppy. Like any adjustment, it will take time. Stay patient, calm, and consistent as your puppy navigates this new world. If you are feeling frustrated or tired, take a deep breath and remember that this phase is temporary, and your puppy is learning and growing every day.     And, please know that we are here to help!

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