Patience and establishing a routine are critical during the first week at home. Your new puppy doesn’t know who you are, where he will sleep, when he will eat or what is expected of him. To help him feel safe make sure to feed him, play with him, take him outside and put him to bed at the same time every day. Be forgiving when your puppy makes a mistake, potties in the house, chews on your table, or nips too hard. He isn’t trying to be in control or make you mad, he is just a baby and he made a mistake. As your puppy adjusts during the first week, allow him to wear his collar or harness and leash in the house. Not only will he get use to wearing the equipment he will need on a walk, but the leash will allow you to quickly control him when needed.

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