The First 30 Days With Your New Puppy
A calm, structured arrival sets the tone for life. Our day-by-day framework for settling a German Shepherd puppy into your home.
The first month at home is where habits — good and bad — take root. With a little structure, you can give your puppy the confidence and routine that produce a calm, well-adjusted adult dog.
Week one: safety and routine
Keep the world small at first. A defined sleeping area, consistent meal times and frequent toilet breaks help your puppy feel secure. Avoid overwhelming visitors; let your puppy come to people in their own time.
Weeks two and three: gentle exposure
Begin short, positive exposures to new sounds, surfaces and people. Pair anything novel with praise and treats. This is the foundation of a bombproof temperament.
Week four: foundations of obedience
Introduce a name, a recall and the beginnings of lead manners using reward-based methods. Keep sessions short and end on success. Consistency, not intensity, is what builds a reliable dog.