After all the searching and planning and waiting, the big moment’s finally here. You’ve picked up your new best friend and are taking them home for the very first time!
It’s exciting and, surprisingly, noisy with your new pup whining up a storm. You know they’re safe and sound. And yet, you still can’t help but glance back every few seconds to make sure they’re okay. They are a little nervous and a little scared, much like yourself!
Then the drive’s over, and they walk through the front door to their forever home.
It’s adorable watching them sniff and explore every nook and cranny. But as they tire out and stare up at you with those sweet puppy dog eyes, you feel a mix of emotions.
You’re happy but also anxious, worried, or uncertain. Trust us: this is totally normal.
Bringing a new puppy home is a wonderful experience you’ll never forget. However, it can also be nerve-wracking, especially once the sun goes down.
For many pet parents, a new puppy's first night is the hardest part of the adjustment process. The good news? Most settle in much faster than you’d expect.
Looking for a little extra reassurance? Our guide will walk you through everything from the first night to the first two weeks with a new puppy, including which behaviours are normal, how to help them settle, when to worry about crying, how to prepare your home, and where to find reliable support.
Before Your Puppy Arrives — The Realistic Checklist
Puppies are all about keeping you on your toes. Things will undoubtedly pop up that you didn’t expect. However, the right essentials, a little preparation, and a plan all ensure your life together starts on the right paw.
A little overwhelmed getting started? Our quick new puppy checklist for Australian homes covers all the essentials.
The Actual Essentials
Some checklists for a puppy’s first night or week emphasise a laundry list of products. Many of these are unnecessary or even discouraged — especially before pickup day. Instead, stick with just the real essentials, including:
● A crate or secure puppy pen. You’ll know it’s the right size if your pup can comfortably stand, turn around, and lie down in it.
● Soft bedding and washable blankets. If you’re picking up from a breeder, ask for one with mum’s scent for a transition that is less stressful for your puppy.
● Same brand of puppy food used by the breeder/rescue. Pups can experience gastrointestinal upset if their food is switched too fast.
● Food and water bowls. Ceramic or stainless steel is best for safety and cleanliness.
● Collar, lead, and ID tag with your phone number. It's always better to be safe than sorry!
● Soft toys for comfort. Simulated heartbeat toys like the Heartbeat Buddy for Pets can make a huge difference in the first few nights.
● Enzyme cleaner for accidents. Regular cleaners don’t adequately break down urine the same way that enzyme cleaners do, and leave smell and mess behind.
● Puppy pads. They’re a great temporary tool to use while housetraining. We have some Reusable Training Pads that can be easily washed and help save waste and money.
● A safe car restraint or travel crate. A must-have for day one and beyond, it keeps both you and your new buddy safe while driving.
Australian Admin
Preparing for a new puppy isn’t all cute toys and treats. There’s some practical paperwork to take care of as well. Not the most exciting item on your pre-pup checklist, but taking care of it early keeps your pup safe, protected, and legally registered from day one:
● Council registration. Though compulsory in most states/territories, registration processes vary depending on location. Call or check your local council’s website for the forms and fees you’ll need.
● Microchip details. Your pup’s breeder or rescue should help get everything transferred to your name.
● Pet insurance. Some vets recommend organising this before pickup day since coverage usually begins automatically after activation. If you’re uncertain or want to wait, it’s worth considering in the first couple of weeks before any pre-existing conditions develop.
What You DON’T Need Yet
● Training collars
● Puppy clothes/accessories
● Fancy treats
● Dozens of toys
● Expensive bedding — trust us, they’ll just chew it up!
Day One — Bringing Them Home
Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting event for you. That said, it’s also a very big (probably intimidating) day for your pup.
The good news is that a calm, predictable first day can go a long way towards helping your puppy feel safe and settled. From their first car journey to their first night, a few simple choices can make the transition easier for both of you.
And it all starts with getting them home.
The Car Ride Home
For many puppies, this is their first proper car trip.
Some will sleep through the entire journey. Others might cry or whine the whole way home. And some might drool, pant, or become motion sick. While not as calm or comfortable, all those responses are completely normal. So, it’s best to prepare for anything!
Some things you might want to bring to account for all the possibilities:
● A towel
● Puppy pads
● Water
● A chew toy
● Cleaning supplies — just in case
A secure travel setup will be an enormous help, not just now but later down the road. Whether that's a carrier, a car seat bed, or a portable travel bed, having a contained space often helps puppies feel (and be) safer during the trip.
Toilet First, House Tour Second
Beyond being noisy and adorable, puppies and children have something in common. It’s best to assume they always have to use the loo… and right now.
As soon as you make it home, the first thing on your agenda should be taking your pup where you’d like them to toilet.
Exploring the house, meeting the family, and having a snack? All of that can wait.
Take them outside straight away. And if they do go, make sure to offer them calm pats and praise to let them know they’ve done the right thing. Positive reinforcement is essential.
Keep The First Few Hours Quiet
When bringing a new puppy home, it’s tempting to turn the entire day into a celebration.
However, your puppy won’t yet benefit from excitable visitors, neighbours, or a dozen nieces and nephews all clamouring for cuddles. Instead, give them a chance to breathe and let them explore a small section of the house at their own pace.
Introducing Other Pets
Already have other dogs or cats? Feel free to let them all get to know the newest family member. Yet, do so mindfully.
You’ll want to keep introductions short, calm, and well-supervised. After all, slow introductions generally make for better long-term relationships.
Unfortunately, though, not all go as well as one may hope. If the meeting does go a little sideways, please try not to beat yourself up or get discouraged. It happens — give them all some time, let your new friend settle in, and try again later.
Feeding and Toilet Breaks
One of the big rules of thumb for new puppies: stick with what's familiar.
For the first week or so, try to follow the feeding routine outlined by your breeder or rescue. Use the same food, a similar feeding schedule, and keep things as predictable as possible.
The same principle applies to toilet training. Generally, you’ll want to take your puppy to their toilet area:
● After waking up
● After eating
● After drinking
● After play sessions
● Every one to two hours throughout the day
When they get it right, offer calm praise and positive reinforcement. When accidents happen — and they will — simply clean up and move on. Your puppy is still learning. It will click with time.
How to Settle a New Puppy
Much like us, puppies aren’t going to have much luck sleeping without a little wind-down time.
As evening approaches, start lowering the excitement levels. This is essential for puppy sleep training! Keep play sessions gentle, turn down the noise level when possible, and wind down yourself. If you’re quiet and relaxed, your pup has a better chance of being quiet and relaxed.
Just remember to take them out for one final toilet break before settling in for the night!
This is also a good time to introduce any comfort items they'll be sleeping with. A familiar blanket, soft toy, or Heartbeat Buddy for Pets are all solid picks to help them settle down and make it a perfect first night home for you and your puppy.
The First Night — What Happens and What Helps
No matter how calm or prepared you are, the first night will be full of ups and downs. After all, you might not have ever tried to sleep worrying about a new puppy, and likewise, your new puppy has probably never slept alone before — certainly not in an unfamiliar home surrounded with unfamiliar smells and sounds.
It’s going to be a learning curve for both of you. So, what should you expect the first night? On top of that, what can you do to help things go smoothly?
What to (realistically) expect:
● Most pups will cry on-and-off for the first 1–3 nights.
● How quickly your pup settles totally depends. Some might take 30 minutes; some might take 4 hours. Both are okay.
● Things will get easier fairly fast. By night 4–5, most pups will relax and/or go to sleep within 10–15 minutes.
● By week 2, most pups will sleep through with one toilet break.
Pre-planning that genuinely helps:
1. Where they sleep. The RSPCA recommends keeping them cosy and comfy inside. They should be in the same room as where you sleep, at least for the first few nights. A crate or pen in your bedroom is ideal since your pup will be able to hear and smell you without wandering.
2. The bedding. If the breeder gave you a blanket or toy with either mum’s or the litter’s scent, this will be your key to a good night’s sleep. Use it! The Heartbeat Buddy for Pets or other soft, simulated heartbeat toy can help, too. This mimics the warmth and pulse of sleeping with siblings and will keep your new friend more comfortable.
3. A worn t-shirt of yours. Your scent is calming. An unwashed t-shirt in their bed will equal a more relaxed first night home.
4. Toilet break right before bed. Even if they don't seem to need it, the odds are good they will.
5. Lights low, voice calm. Don't make bedtime exciting if you’re trying to actually get some sleep. You want everything quiet and soothing.
6. When they cry — and they will. Speak quietly and reassuringly without picking them up or making it a game. They need to know you're nearby; they don't need to be entertained. Play can come in the morning.
7. Middle-of-the-night toilet break. 8-week-olds usually can't hold it through the night. Just make it quiet, no fuss — outside, toilet, brief praise, then back to bed for you both.
8. Where they should sleep. Only bring them into bed if you're happy for that to be permanent. Habits are established from night one. Pick either the crate or the bed and stick with it.
What to Expect During the First Two Weeks
The first week with a new puppy is a transition period full of learning — and the second week’s much the same. Some days will be wonderful. Some will be chaotic. Others will have you wondering just what exactly you’ve gotten yourself into.
Each day’s different. There is a kind of rough timeline you might see things follow, though:
Days 1–3
The first few days are all about taking in the new.
Your puppy has just experienced one of the biggest changes of their life, and many need some time figuring out their new normal. During this phase, you might notice your furry friend is:
● Sleeping a lot
● Crying at night
● Having toilet accidents
● Not eating much/having a reduced appetite
● Being clingy or following you everywhere
● Being extra nervous around unfamiliar sights/sounds
All of these are normal. Yet, if you are concerned for any reason, don’t hesitate to ask your puppy’s vet. A brief visit for their first health check is recommended around this time, anyway.
Simply focus on consistent feeding, toilet breaks, love, and lots of rest — puppies need up to 20 hours worth per day! Calm bonding time and avoiding overwhelming your pup is generally all they need to get through this.
Days 4–7
By the end of the first week, many puppies start settling into the rhythm of their new home. What was scary, loud and new is now becoming familiar, maybe even soothing.
They now recognise you, their food bowl, their bed. Toilet training may be starting to click (but don’t worry if it’s not), and sleep may be coming a little easier.
At this point, it’s all about building a routine and setting expectations. Keep up what you’re doing and enjoy watching your new pet find their footing.
Week 2
Week two is where everything starts coming together. By now, your puppy is usually feeling much more secure. They’re starting to sleep better, toilet accidents are less frequent, and the daily to-do is becoming their norm. They’re feeling more energetic, confident, maybe even mischievous.
You’re finally starting to get a peek at their real personality. Take some time and enjoy seeing your puppy come out of their shell!
We also recommend enrolling them in puppy preschool around this time.
It provides safe socialisation opportunities, helps build confidence, and introduces basic training skills using positive reinforcement methods. Most puppy preschools start at 8-12 weeks and fill up fast, so don’t hesitate if you’re interested!
Socialisation Starts Early
These early days are filled with a bunch of watching and playing. However, you’ve also got an incredibly important job to do: starting your pup’s socialisation.
The critical socialisation window is typically recognised as 3–14 weeks. Carefully chosen, vet-cleared experiences in this window can positively influence the whole course of a dog’s life.
But please, don’t stress or overthink this. You don’t have to introduce your dog to everything all at once or stretch yourselves too thin.
Instead, focus on calm, positive exposure to what an average day looks like for you. Introduce your furry friend to different places, people, pets, car rides, grooming, and anything else that will become a normal part of their life.
And if your puppy hasn’t completed their round of vaccinations? Speak with your vet about safe ways to socialise them. Many Australian owners use carriers, strollers, or a dog backpack carrier to safely expose their puppies to the world before they're ready to be an active part of it.
A Note on Crate Training
When introduced properly, a crate can become one of the most valuable tools for helping a new puppy settle into their home. Rather than thinking of it as a cage or confinement tool, think of it as your puppy's own safe, quiet space—a place where they can relax, sleep, and retreat when they need a break from the noise.
The key is building positive associations from the very beginning.
Feed meals near or inside the crate, toss in treats, offer favourite toys, and encourage calm rest periods there throughout the day. Just as importantly, the crate should never be used as punishment. Your puppy should learn that entering their crate leads to comfort and security, not isolation or discipline.
Over time, many puppies come to see their crate as a familiar safe haven. Great for their comfort, it makes everything from bedtime to vet visits much less stressful, too.
When the Crying Lasts Longer Than Expected
Puppies cry. It's one of the main ways they let you know they're feeling nervous, lonely, or tired. The good news is that most new puppy first night crying improves fairly quickly. The first 3–5 nights typically see the biggest improvements.
However, while some crying is normal and expected, persistent distress is not. Pay particular attention if the crying is constant, intense, or panicked. This goes beyond the typical adjustment woes.
Potential warning signs can include:
● Scratching frantically at their crate or pen
● Frequently having accidents
● Destroying bedding/furniture
● Becoming distressed whenever left alone
● Taking a long time to recover after becoming upset
According to RSPCA Australia, these behaviours can be early signs of separation-related anxiety, and are worth discussing with your vet or a qualified force-free trainer.
It's also important to remember that puppy crying at night is not active, naughty behaviour like nuisance barking. Your puppy isn't trying to be difficult or disobedient — they're just trying to communicate.
For that reason, anti-bark collars/devices and other punishment-based approaches are not appropriate for first-night puppy crying. Instead, focus on helping your puppy feel safe and supported while they adjust.
Comfort tools such as familiar scent items, white noise, and heartbeat toys can help many puppies settle more easily. Products like the Heartbeat Buddy for Pets could be particularly helpful as they’re designed to mimic the feeling of sleeping alongside littermates. Many pups find this very reassuring during their first few weeks at home.
Most importantly, avoid punishment of any kind. Happy dogs with good sleeping habits are built through consistency and care; never fear.
The First Vet Visit
Puppies — just like us — need regular check-ups and preventative care to keep them healthy and happy.
Your furry friend’s first vet visit is typically arranged within the first week and is an especially important milestone. It gives your vet a chance to assess their health, weigh them, answer any questions you may have, and make sure your new family member is settling in nicely.
They’ll likely also set up your puppy’s vaccination plan and give a few basic shots while you’re there.
This can include C5, which covers parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis, and kennel cough. However, timing can vary depending on a pup’s age, breed, and prior breeder/rescue vaccinations. Your vet will recommend the exact schedule that's right for your puppy.
A few other basics to be discussed or verified during your visit are:
• Microchipping. This should already be in place since it’s required in most Australian states but your vet might want to double-check. Your vet will likely also help transfer details to your name.
• Worming. Most pups will need to be dewormed every 2 weeks until they’re 12 weeks old. After this, it will likely be required monthly until they’re 6 months.
• Desexing. The standard is usually around 6 months, but it does vary. Your vet will give their personal recommendation and discuss its importance.
It's also worth remembering that this appointment is often your puppy's second car ride—the first being their journey home.
If your pup didn’t have a great first trip, don't worry. Many puppies become more confident travellers with practice.
Most importantly, though, don't be afraid to ask questions during your dog’s appointment! Whether it's about feeding, toilet training, sleep, socialisation, or something else entirely, your puppy's first check-up is the perfect opportunity to get professional answers.
Finding Good Help: Trainers, Puppy Schools, and Support
Raising a dog is a learning experience for pet parents and pups alike. But having the right support can make the journey easier and help prevent small issues from snowballing into much bigger ones.
Trainers
Positive reinforcement is everything. Be cautious of anyone promising “instant obedience” or relying heavily on punishment-based techniques. Good trainers will have realistic expectations, use rewards, focus on building confidence, and will never use intimidation, fear, or “alpha” language. The PPGA lists qualified force-free trainers if you need help finding one.
Puppy preschool
Puppies can be enrolled as soon as they’re between 8 to 12 weeks. Much like you’d expect from a school for dogs, these classes can help with socialisation, basic skills or commands, and owner education. The best schools prioritise calm learning experiences and also use positive reinforcement over punishment. Ask your vet or check local pet resources for recommendations.
Behaviourist referral
Though new puppies can take a while to settle in, there are some red flag behaviours that require professional assistance. If your pup starts showing any signs of severe anxiety or persistent aggression, reach out to your vet for a behaviourist referral. These veterinary specialists are trained to diagnose and treat a wide range of behavioural issues, and can help get your furry friend back on track.
FAQ
How long does puppy crying last at night?
Many puppies will stop crying within just a few nights. Some take a little longer, but rest assured, most will be well settled after a couple of weeks. It’s a gradual process.
Should I let my puppy sleep in my bedroom?
Yes. Many trainers recommend keeping puppies in your bedroom/near wherever you sleep. This reduces stress and helps with toilet training.
Should I respond to my puppy crying?
While one or two cries are fine to leave be, persistent crying or whining should always grab your attention. Be sure to check in on your pup and see if they need a bathroom break, water, etcetera.
Is it normal to regret getting a puppy?
Yes. New puppy blues are very common and completely normal. Sleep deprivation, stress, and the need to be constantly supervising can feel overwhelming at first. Just know things settle down and you’ll likely feel better soon.
How often should my puppy eat?
Most young puppies eat three to four meals per day. Age, size, and breed influence this, though — your vet can give you more personalised advice.
When can my puppy go outside?
This depends on vaccination status and local risk factors. Your vet can advise when outdoor walks become safe.
How long can puppies hold their bladder overnight?
Young puppies often need overnight toilet breaks every few hours initially. Thankfully, their bladder control improves with age.
Is crate training cruel?
No. Some people indeed use it in bad or negative ways. Yet, when introduced positively, crate training is far from cruel. Crates can become a safe, comforting space for many dogs. They’re like pups’ own little dens! Just be sure to never use them for punishment or excessive confinement.
Why is my puppy biting so much?
Puppy biting is a normal developmental behaviour, especially during teething. Being sleepy or overstimulated can also make it worse.
When should I start training?
Training begins immediately through routine, reinforcement, and daily interaction. Formal obedience skills can start being taught once your dog is 8 weeks old.
What if my puppy still won’t settle after two weeks?
Persistent distress, panicky behaviours, changes in, or an inability to settle may warrant support from a vet or qualified trainer.
Summing It All Up
In those initial two weeks with a new puppy, the struggle can feel brutal. Between all the toilet training, interrupted sleep, pup’s need for constant supervision, and trying to decode every little whine, it's easy to wonder whether you're getting any of it right.
You are.
The reality is just that the first couple of weeks are difficult.
Things do get easier surprisingly fast, though. It doesn’t feel like it now. But before you know it, these challenging, beginning stages will be over and nothing but a memory.
Still in those early days, prepping for your puppy's arrival? Pet Supplies Australia's range of puppy essentials can help make those first few weeks just a bit smoother. The Heartbeat Buddy for Pets is a particularly popular pick, ideal for pups first adjusting or struggling with sleep.
