Bringing home a puppy is a magical moment, but the first few weeks lay the foundations for their entire adult life. Sensitive period until 14 weeks, socialization, house training, sleep management: here's how to start well.
The first night
Prepare a quiet corner, close to you but not in your bed. An old blanket carrying the mother's scent can be reassuring. The first nights are often restless: that's normal. Stay patient and consistent.
House training
- Take the puppy out every 1-2 hours during the day
- Always go out after meals, after waking, after play
- Reward immediately when they go outside
- Ignore accidents: no punishment, just clean up without drama
- Full house training comes around 4-6 months depending on the puppy
Socialization: the critical window
Between 3 and 14 weeks, the puppy learns what is "normal" in their environment. Use this time to meet varied people (children, bearded men, older adults), balanced dogs, car noises, the vacuum, the elevator. Always positive, never forced.
Warning: a not-yet-vaccinated puppy shouldn't walk in public places frequented by other dogs. Favor encounters in controlled settings (friends, family).
Vaccinations and first vet visit
First vaccine between 6 and 8 weeks, boosters until 16 weeks. Use the first visit to identify the puppy (chip or tattoo), check that they're dewormed and on anti-parasite treatment.
First lessons
A few minutes per day is enough. Favor playful recall, "sit", very short "stay". Everything must be positive: reward, play, complicity. A puppy has a short attention span: 5 minutes several times a day beats one long session.
“The first eight weeks at home will give you, or not, the adult dog you want. Don't waste them.
— Estelle, dog trainer
