Getting a New Puppy: What Every New Dog Owner Should Know

Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting and joyful experience, but it also comes with a lot of responsibility. From vaccinations and training to feeding and socialisation, there’s a lot to consider in those early days. If you’re a new dog owner (or soon to be one), this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to give your puppy the best start in life.

Preparing Your Home for a Puppy

Before your puppy arrives, it’s important to puppy-proof your home to keep them safe and prevent accidents.

Checklist to prepare:

Remove electrical cords, toxic plants, and small objects they could swallow

Set up a crate or safe space with bedding, toys, and water

Purchase essentials: food/water bowls, collar & lead, puppy-safe toys, grooming tools, and puppy food

Decide where your puppy will sleep and eat

Think of it as baby-proofing — puppies explore with their mouths and will chew anything!

Choosing the Right Puppy Food

Puppies have different nutritional needs from adult dogs. Choose a high-quality puppy food that supports healthy growth and development. The Oathall team can recommend the best food based on your puppy’s breed, size, and activity level.

Feeding Tips:

Feed 3–4 small meals a day (reduce to 2 as they grow)

Always provide fresh, clean water

Avoid giving human food or treats that aren’t specifically made for puppies

The Importance of Vaccinations & Vet Checks

One of the first things you should do is book a health check. Your puppy will need a series of vaccinations to protect against serious diseases such as parvovirus, distemper, hepatitis, and leptospirosis.

Oathall vaccination schedule:

First vaccination: 6–8 weeks

Second vaccination: 10–12 weeks

Booster: 12 months later

Regular parasite control: Worming, flea, and tick treatments

We will also discuss microchipping during your first visit.

Puppy Training & Socialisation

Training and socialisation are key parts of raising a well-behaved, happy dog.

Start with:

Toilet training: Take your puppy out regularly, especially after meals or naps

Basic commands: “Sit”, “Stay”, “Come”, and walking on a lead

Positive reinforcement: Reward good behaviour with treats and praise

Expose your puppy to different sights, sounds, people, and other dogs in a safe and controlled way. Enrolling in an Oathall puppy training class is a great option.

Teething, Chewing, and Playtime

Puppies love to chew — it helps relieve teething discomfort and keeps them entertained.

To support your teething puppy:

Offer safe chew toys and teething rings

Avoid giving old shoes or items that resemble household objects

Redirect inappropriate chewing with a firm “no” and provide an alternative

Supervised play is essential for bonding and burning energy.

Building a Routine

Dogs thrive on structure. Establish a consistent routine for feeding, bathroom breaks, walks, and bedtime. This helps reduce anxiety and makes training much easier.

Consistency is key — especially during those crucial first few weeks.

Insurance and Health Planning

Consider getting pet insurance early on. Most policies are more affordable when started while your puppy is young and healthy.

Also ask your Oathall vet about:

Long-term vaccination schedules

Dental care

Neutering timing

Nutrition and weight management

When to Oathall Veterinary Clinic

As a new owner, you may worry about what’s normal and what’s not. Contact us if your puppy shows signs of:

Vomiting or diarrhoea

Lethargy or loss of appetite

Coughing, sneezing, or nasal discharge

Excessive scratching or shaking of the head

Difficulty walking or breathing

When in doubt — always ask. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Conclusion

Welcoming a puppy into your life is the start of an incredible journey. With the right care, training, and love, your puppy will grow into a healthy and loyal companion. Be patient, stay consistent, and don’t be afraid to ask us for advice — we’re here to help you every step of the way.