First Year With Puppies

The first year with a puppy is a whirlwind of learning, laughter, challenges, and growth. It is a time filled with small victories and big lessons. Whether you are raising your first puppy or adding a new member to your pack, the first twelve months are where habits form, bonds deepen, and a lifetime of behavior is shaped.

This guide walks you through what to expect during each stage, and how to build a strong, healthy relationship with your puppy from the very beginning.

Month 1: The Arrival

Bringing your puppy home is both exciting and overwhelming. At 8 to 10 weeks, most puppies are leaving their mother and siblings for the first time. They are exploring the world with fresh eyes and soft paws.

What to do:

* Set up a quiet, safe space like a crate or playpen

* Start potty training immediately

* Feed them small, frequent meals

* Begin simple name recognition and short handling sessions

* Keep things calm and predictable. This stage is all about comfort and security.

Month 2: Socialization and First Training

Between 10 and 16 weeks, your puppy enters the "critical socialization window." This is the best time to introduce them to people, places, surfaces, and sounds. Positive experiences now will shape their confidence for life.

Tips:

* Introduce your puppy to people of all ages and safe, friendly dogs

* Carry treats on walks and reward calm behavior

* Begin short leash training and crate conditioning

* Start basic cues like sit, down, and come

* Keep training sessions short and positive. Use gentle guidance, not pressure.