1st Week Home
What to Expect the First Week With Your Doodle
Bringing home your new Doodle puppy is such an exciting time that you have probably been waiting for what seems like forever! Their sweet eyes, playful paws, and fluffy cuddles are irresistible—but the first week can also come with a few surprises!
Here’s what to expect (and how to prepare) during your first week together, so you and your Doodle can start off on the right paw 🐾
🏠 1. Settling Into Their New Home
Your puppy is leaving behind their littermates, familiar smells, and daily routines—so expect some nervousness.
What to expect:
Whining or crying at night (this is normal!)
A little confusion or clinginess
Sleeping a lot—puppies nap often
How to help:
Keep their crate close to your bed at night for comfort
Use a blanket or toy that smells like their old home (we include one!)
Stay calm and consistent—they’ll settle in quicker than you think
🛏️ 2. Crate Training Begins
Crate training helps create structure and gives your pup a safe space to rest.
Tips:
Make the crate cozy, but not too large
Use treats and toys to make it a happy place
Keep it in a quiet, calm part of your home
Your Doodle might cry a bit at first, but stay consistent—most adjust within a few nights.
🚽 3. Potty Training: Progress, Not Perfection
Accidents will happen—and that’s okay!
Best practices:
Take your puppy outside every 1–2 hours during the day
Always go out right after eating, playing, or waking up
Praise and reward them immediately after they go potty outside
Pro tip: Keep a potty journal or timer during week one—it helps spot patterns and avoid guesswork.
🍽️ 4. Eating & Drinking
Your Doodle might eat a little less the first couple days due to the change in environment.
To help:
Stick with the food we recommend (or gradually transition to your brand over a week)
Keep fresh water available at all times
Feed on a schedule—this helps with digestion and potty training
🎾 5. Play, Bonding & Enrichment
Play is a big part of building your bond and burning off puppy energy!
First week activities:
Gentle play sessions (they tire quickly)
Chew toys and puzzle feeders
Name recognition games
Basic sit-and-come training with treats
Keep play short and positive—puppies need rest just as much as play!
🐕🦺 6. Socialization Starts Now
Socialization doesn’t mean going to the dog park just yet—but it does mean:
Letting your puppy experience new sounds, surfaces, and sights
Gently introducing them to a few trusted people
Playing background noises like traffic or thunderstorms to desensitize them
Positive exposure in week one lays the foundation for a confident, well-adjusted adult dog.
💛 7. Be Patient—You're Building Trust
The first week is about creating safety, structure, and connection. You’re laying the foundation for a lifelong bond, even if there are a few bumps along the way.
Your Doodle is looking to you for leadership, love, and guidance. Be patient, give lots of praise, and trust the process.
✨ Your Puppy’s First Week Checklist:
✅ Crate set up and introduced
✅ Feeding schedule started
✅ Potty plan in place (Did you know they have apps that can help?)
✅ Gentle play and basic training
✅ Vet visit scheduled (within 72 hours)
✅ Lots of cuddles and calm reassurance
Need help or have questions during your first week? We’re always just a message away. Whether it’s sleep schedules, crate tips, or just a confidence boost—we’re here for you.
🐾 Welcome to the Doodles of Oz family—we’re so happy you’re here!