What to Expect the First Week with Your Golden Retriever Puppy
Bringing home your Golden Retriever puppy is an exciting and memorable experience—one your whole family will cherish. That first week is full of sweet puppy snuggles, laughter at their silly antics, and a few moments of adjustment as everyone settles into a new rhythm.
As a homeschooling, homemaking mom, you want this transition to be as smooth as possible while ensuring your puppy feels safe, loved, and ready to grow into the well-mannered companion your family dreams of. Here’s what you can expect in the first week and how to set your new puppy up for success!
Day 1: Settling In
Your puppy has just left its littermates and familiar surroundings. Expect a bit of nervousness, whining, and lots of curiosity. Keep things calm and predictable as your puppy adjusts to their new home.
Tips for a Smooth First Day:
Show your puppy their designated potty area immediately.
Give them a quiet space with a cozy crate where they can retreat when tired.
Let your children interact gently, respecting the puppy’s need for rest.
Keep meals consistent with what the breeder fed them to avoid tummy upset.
Nighttime Routine & Sleep Training
The first few nights can be the hardest. Your puppy may whimper as they adjust to sleeping without their littermates. Placing their crate near your bed or in a quiet area where they can still hear you can offer comfort.
How to Help Your Puppy Sleep:
Provide a warm blanket or a snuggle puppy with a heartbeat toy.
Take them out for a potty break before bed.
If they cry, reassure them briefly but avoid too much interaction.
Expect one or two potty breaks during the night for the first few days.
Days 2-3: Establishing a Routine
Golden Retrievers thrive on routine, and having a predictable schedule will help your puppy feel secure. Set times for feeding, potty breaks, naps, and playtime.
Your Puppy’s Daily Rhythm:
Morning: First potty break, breakfast, playtime, short training session.
Midday: Naps, gentle playtime with the kids, lunchtime potty break.
Evening: Dinner, family bonding, wind-down time before bed.
This is also the time to introduce your puppy to the idea of gentle training. Teaching their name, sitting for food, and going potty outside are great starting points. Keep sessions short and fun!
Days 4-5: Socialization & Bonding
Golden Retrievers are naturally social and love being part of the family. This is a great time to introduce your puppy to new sounds, surfaces, and experiences in a calm way.
Ways to Socialize Your Puppy at Home:
Let them explore different areas of the house under supervision.
Introduce them to household sounds like the vacuum or doorbell.
Have the children take turns giving treats for simple commands.
Gently handle their paws, ears, and mouth to prepare for grooming.
Days 6-7: Confidence Building & Enjoying Your Puppy
By the end of the first week, your puppy will start feeling more comfortable and confident in their new home. You’ll notice their playful, affectionate nature shining through!
What to Focus On:
Continue reinforcing potty training and crate training.
Establish clear expectations, such as no jumping on the kids.
Introduce a leash and start slow walks in your yard.
Savor these sweet puppy moments—they grow so fast!
Looking Ahead
After the first week, your puppy will have begun settling into your family’s rhythm. This is the perfect time to enroll in a gentle puppy training course—something that can be a fun learning experience for the kids, too!
Your Golden Retriever puppy will quickly become a beloved part of your home, bringing endless joy, companionship, and a beautiful reminder of the simple gifts in life. Enjoy this precious time, and know that your gentle guidance now will shape your puppy into the well-mannered family companion you’ve always dreamed of!
Helpful Resources!
Here I will link a couple resources for you as your preparing for your new puppy!
Our Ebook on all you’ll need to know when bringing home your new pup. Bringing home a new Golden Retriever puppy is an exciting journey, and this comprehensive guide will help you every step of the way! Inside, you’ll find:
✔️ Expert Tips & Step-by-Step Guidance – From preparing your home to your puppy’s first night, we cover everything you need to know.
✔️ Training & Socialization Strategies – Learn how to start house training, crate training, and basic obedience for a well-mannered pup.
✔️ Health & Nutrition Advice – Understand the best diet, vet visits, and preventative care to keep your Golden Retriever happy and healthy.
✔️ Essential Puppy Gear Checklist – A curated list of must-have products to make your life easier (with handy links!).
✔️ Lifetime Care & Bonding Tips – Build a strong relationship with your puppy through proper exercise, enrichment, and affection.
This eBook is your go-to resource for raising a confident, well-adjusted Golden Retriever from day one!
Get your Ebook HERE!
