Important Things To Do With a New Puppy (Without Losing Your Mind)

New Puppy Hacks for Surviving the First Week Like a True Dog Mom Pro

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Affiliate Disclosure:
Hey bestie! Just so you know—this post contains affiliate links. That means if you click and buy something, I may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). It helps keep the blog (and the treat jar) going!

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So, you’re officially a new dog mom! Welcome to the world of fur on your leggings, squeaky toy symphonies at 3 a.m., and unconditional love from a 10-pound tornado. 🐾

Whether you’re getting ready for a puppy or just finished your first sleepless night with your new floof, I’ve got all the new puppy hacks, prep tips, and dog mom truth bombs you need for week one and beyond.

Let’s dig in (pun intended).

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Puppy-Proof the House Before the Chaos Begins

Getting Ready For A Puppy, Things To Know Before Getting A Puppy

Why You’ll Love It:
Because puppies will eat cords, shoes, socks, crumbs from 2009, and your sanity if you let them.

✔️ Quick Puppy-Proofing Checklist:

• Hide cords with cord protectors like these
• Install baby gates to block danger zones
• Secure trash cans and pantry doors
• Move plants (because many are toxic to pups)
• Lock away cleaning supplies & meds
• Keep shoes and anything chewable up high

Bonus Hack:
Keep a laundry basket flipped upside down over a pee pad while training. Keeps the pad in place and avoids chewing!

Imagine This:
Your pup wanders around, curious and sniffing, but there’s nothing they can destroy. You sip your coffee in peace. Ahhh.

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Set Up Their Home Base Like a Cozy Puppy Studio

New Puppy Set Up Home

Why You’ll Love It:
Dogs are den animals—they crave cozy corners that feel safe and snug.

🛒 Home Base Essentials:

• Crate (foldable & breathable)
• Memory foam puppy bed
• Playpen to give space + boundaries
• Food & water bowls – non-skid

How to Do It:
Pick a low-traffic area, place their crate, pen, and bowls, and add a cozy blanket with your scent.

New Puppy Hack:
Add a heartbeat stuffed animal to help them sleep better the first few nights.

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Stock Up on What You Actually Need

What Do I Need For A New Puppy, Puppy Things You Need

Skip the extra fluff and go straight for the puppy survival kit:

🐾 Must-Have Puppy Supplies:

• Puppy Chew Toy Starter Pack
• Leak-Proof Puppy Pads (bulk box)
• Training Treats (tiny + tasty)
• Adjustable harness and leash set
• Clicker for easy training

Bonus Perk:
Create a “puppy station” near your entryway so you’re never scrambling for a leash, poop bag, or treat when it’s go-time.

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Create a Flexible But Structured Routine

First Week With Puppy

Why You’ll Love It:
Dogs thrive on predictability—and so do stressed-out new dog moms.

🕒 Sample Daily Routine:

• 7:00 AM: Wake & potty
• 7:30 AM: Breakfast
• 8:00 AM: Play + potty again
• 9:00 AM: Nap (hallelujah!)
• Repeat mini cycles of potty > play > nap all day long
• 7:00 PM: Dinner
• 9:00 PM: Final potty
• 10:00 PM: Bedtime routine

New Puppy Hack:
Set a 2-hour timer for potty breaks—even if they “just went.” Their bladder = unreliable drama queen.

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Track Their Growth (Because It Happens Overnight)

Puppy Growth Pictures

Why You’ll Love It:
In a few weeks, they’ll be 3x the size and stealing socks like a pro thief.

📸 Growth Tracking Must-Haves:

• Puppy monthly milestone blanket
• Take a photo every month in the same spot with the same toy
• Add their weight & new skills each month in a puppy journal

Bonus Idea:
Use Canva to create a digital scrapbook or share weekly growth on Instagram with your own hashtag (#LifeWithLuna 🐶✨)

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Start Gentle Training Right Away

New Puppy Hacks, Things To Know Before Getting A Puppy

No, it’s not too early. Training starts day one—even if it’s just teaching them your vibe.

🧠 Simple Training Tips:

• Use a clicker + treat combo
• Reward calm behavior (not just tricks)
• Teach “sit” and “watch me” before anything else
• Practice short crate sessions

👉 Grab this puppy training book every new dog mom swears by

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Embrace the Pup Parent Era (Like You Were Born for This)

New Pup Parent

Why You’ll Love It:
It’s a vibe. Dog mom energy hits different—and yes, you can match your outfits. 💅

🛍️ Pup Parent Favorites:

• Treat pouch for walks
• Pup cam with treat launcher
• Pet hair roller for your car/life/soul
• Matching hoodie + bandana set

Bonus Perk:
Make a Spotify playlist for your puppy—yes, it’s a thing—and it actually helps calm their nerves!

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Final Thought:

Bringing home a new puppy is part magic, part mayhem, and all heart. You’ll question your life choices between potty breaks, but you’ll also fall harder than you ever thought possible for those floppy ears and sweet eyes.

Take a breath, follow these new puppy hacks, and remember—you’re not alone. You’re part of the dog mom club now.

We don’t always sleep… but we always love big.