Bringing a puppy home: Tips for a healthy, happy start

Bringing home a new puppy is one of life’s greatest joys – full of love, laughter, and those unforgettable first tail wags. Whether your new best friend comes from a breeder or a rescue, preparing for their arrival can feel exciting and a little overwhelming.

This guide is here to help you start your journey on the right paw. From choosing the right breed to building routines, managing vet visits, and understanding the benefits of puppy insurance, Petcover NZ is here every step of the way. Consider this your go-to companion for raising a confident, happy pup.

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1. Choosing the right breed

Every puppy is unique, but finding the right breed that suits your lifestyle can make all the difference in creating a lifelong bond.

Before you fall in love with those puppy-dog eyes, think about your daily routine, home environment and how active you are (or would like to be). The perfect puppy for one family might be totally different for another.

Here are a few key things to think about before making your choice:

• Size & space: Larger breeds like Labradors and German Shepherds thrive with space to roam, while smaller dogs such as Cavaliers or French Bulldogs can suit apartments or townhouses.
• Energy & exercise: Working and herding breeds need regular exercise and mental stimulation. If you prefer relaxed weekends, a lower-energy breed may fit better.
• Grooming needs: Some breeds need frequent grooming or professional clipping, while others shed less and need minimal upkeep.
• Temperament: Research common traits. Some breeds are naturally more independent, while others are affectionate and people oriented.
• Family & children: Choose a breed known for being gentle and patient if you have young kids at home.

Tip: Talk to your local vet or reputable breeder about typical health issues, behaviour, and care needs. Understanding these before you commit helps set you and your new puppy up for success. When in doubt, spend time with different breeds at local clubs or shelters. Sometimes, the right puppy will choose you.

2. Buying from a reputable breeder

If you’re buying from a breeder, choosing the right one is just as important as choosing the breed. A good breeder prioritises the health, wellbeing, and temperament of their dogs – not just a quick sale.

Here’s what to look for when finding a responsible breeder in New Zealand:

• Transparency & access: They’re open to visits and will happily show where and how puppies are raised. If possible, a good breeder will introduce you to the parent dog(s) too.
• Health testing: Responsible breeders screen for common hereditary conditions and share results freely.
• Knowledge & support: They’ll ask questions about your lifestyle and experience to ensure their puppies are the right fit. They’ll stay in touch to offer guidance long after you’ve taken your pup home.
• Proper documentation: Expect vaccination, microchip, and worming records, plus a written sale agreement or pedigree papers if applicable.
• Reputation & ethics: Look for breeders affiliated with recognised organisations such as New Zealand Cat Fancy and Dogs NZ (formerly NZ Kennel Club).

Tip: Beware of anyone unwilling to let you visit or meet the parents. Reputable breeders care deeply about where their puppies go – so they’ll want to meet you too.

Questions to ask a breeder

• How many litters does the mother have each year?
• Can I meet both parents or see their health certificates?
• What food are the puppies currently eating?
• Are the puppies socialised with people, children, or other animals?
• What support do you offer once I take the puppy home?

Taking the time to research and choose carefully helps ensure you bring home a healthy, well-adjusted puppy.

3. Giving a rescue puppy a second chance

Across New Zealand, thousands of dogs are waiting in shelters and foster homes for their forever families. There are so many good reasons to give a rescue puppy a home, including:

• You’re saving two lives: the one you adopt and the space you open for another animal in need.
• You know what you’re getting: rescue organisations often assess each puppy’s personality and match them carefully with owners.
• Support and guidance: reputable rescues such as HUHA provide vet checks, vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing before adoption.

4. Before you bring your puppy home

Whether you’ve chosen a breeder or adopted a rescue, a little preparation goes a long way. Puppies are curious, playful, and learning about their new world, so setting up your home before they arrive helps them feel safe, settled, and loved from day one.

Your puppy prep checklist

Use this simple checklist to make sure everything’s ready before you bring your puppy home:

• Create a puppy-safe space or pen – choose a quiet area with easy-to-clean floors, away from household hazards.
• Set up their bed and blankets – somewhere quiet, warm and soft where they can rest after playtime or for some time-out.
• Food and water bowls – stainless steel or ceramic bowls are easier to keep clean and can be popped into a dishwasher for ease.
• Puppy food – speak with your vet or breeder to ensure you’re providing a diet suited to your puppy’s age and needs. It’s best to stick with the food they’re already accustomed to. If you decide to switch to a different brand, make the transition gradually over several days to avoid upsetting their sensitive stomach.
• Toys and chew items – to keep them entertained and protect your furniture (and shoes!)
• Collar and ID tag – include your phone number and check the collar fits comfortably.
• Microchip and registration – required by law and essential for identification.
• Cleaning supplies – puppy pads, paper towels, and pet-safe enzyme cleaners for the inevitable accidents.
• Vet appointment – schedule a first health check within the first week to discuss vaccinations, parasite control, and microchipping.
• Puppy insurance – getting cover early means your puppy is protected for accidents, and illnesses before any pre-existing conditions develop.

Tip: Walk through your home from a puppy’s perspective. Hide electrical cords, pick up small objects, and block off stairs or balconies. Puppies explore with their mouths, and they don’t yet know what’s safe.

5. What to expect when bringing your puppy home

The big day has finally arrived! You’ve prepared your home, chosen their bed, and stocked up on toys and treats. Now it’s time to bring your puppy home a moment filled with excitement, a few nerves, and plenty of cuddles ahead.

Arriving home

Your puppy’s first car ride and new surroundings can be overwhelming. Keep things calm and gentle:

• Travel safely: use a secure carrier or harness.
• Quiet welcome: let them explore their new space at their own pace before introducing too many people or pets.
• Keep it simple: start with one room or area to help them feel secure, then slowly open up more of the house.
• Establish bathroom habits early: take them outside regularly and praise them for getting it right.

First night feelings

Your puppy might cry or whimper the first night, it’s completely normal. They’re adjusting to a new environment without their mum or littermates.

• Leave a soft blanket that smells of their previous home or litter for familiarity.
• Gentle background noise (a ticking clock or soft radio) can help to soothe them.
• Keep any night-time toilet trips quiet and calm.

These early hours are about comfort and safety. Once your puppy feels secure, you can begin shaping the routine that will help them thrive.

6. Your puppy’s first few days

The first few days with your new puppy are full of discovery – for both of you! These days are all about bonding and helping your puppy feel secure.

• Keep life simple at first. Limit visitors, stick to quiet spaces, and let your puppy explore one area of the house at a time. Too much stimulation early on can make them anxious or overtired.
• Keep their bed or crate in a calm spot where they can still see you.
• Avoid sudden loud noises or big crowds of people.
• Encourage calm interactions if you already have other pets – let them meet gradually under supervision.

Tip: Puppies often sleep up to 18 hours a day. Don’t worry if they play hard, nap often, and repeat – it’s all part of healthy growth.

Crate training & comfort

Crate training is a great way to provide security and structure. The crate becomes your puppy’s – a safe place to rest, sleep, or take a break.

• Keep the door open during the day so they can explore freely.
• Add a blanket or toy for comfort.
• Never use the crate as punishment. It should always feel like a positive space.

Establish feeding habits

Feed your puppy in a quiet, consistent spot and remove the bowl when they’re done. Consistent feeding times help with toilet training and set a rhythm for their day.

Start as you mean to go on – with routine, calm encouragement, and plenty of positive reinforcement. These early days are about bonding, building trust, and showing your puppy that they’re finally home.

7. Creating a routine that works

Once your puppy settles in, a simple, steady routine helps them feel safe and learn faster.

• Start the day with a toilet break, breakfast, a bit of play, then rest.
• During the day, mix short play sessions, naps, quick training, and quiet crate or bedtime. If you’re out, arrange a toilet break for them.
• Keep evenings calm with dinner a few hours before bed, a final toilet trip, and a cosy wind-down. With consistent meals, play, rest, and reassurance, your puppy will quickly adjust and build good habits that last.

Tip: A steady bedtime routine encourages better sleep – and fewer 3 a.m. wake-ups!

8. Health and vet care

Keeping your puppy healthy starts with regular vet care, vaccinations, and parasite prevention. Book their first vet visit within the first week of bringing them home. Your vet will:

• Check your puppy’s overall health and weight
• Review their diet and feeding schedule
• Plan vaccinations and deworming
• Record microchip and paperwork from the breeder or rescue

Your vet will also talk about parasite control, desexing, and tips for a healthy routine. Many clinics run puppy preschool classes to help with socialisation, confidence, and early training.

Local tip: Many vet clinics offer “puppy preschool” classes for puppies aged around 8-16 weeks, helping with socialisation, confidence building, early training and familiarising your puppy with the clinic environment.

NZ vaccination and deworming schedule

Keep records safe

Keep all vaccination records, microchip details, and insurance documents together. You’ll need them for daycare, boarding, travel, and future vet visits.

9. Training and socialisation

Training and socialisation are key to raising a confident, well-behaved puppy. Starting early with patience and positivity helps your pup adapt to new experiences.

Early learning

Puppies learn best in short, fun sessions. Use praise and small treats, and start with simple cues like “sit,” “come,” and “stay.” Keep sessions under five minutes and end on a success. Short, frequent lessons work best for little attention spans

The importance of socialisation

Socialisation helps your puppy interact confidently with people, dogs, sounds, and new environments.

• Introduce new experiences slowly and positively
• Pair new sights and sounds with treats or praise
• Avoid overwhelming situations; let your puppy explore at their own pace

Building confidence in rescue puppies

If your puppy is from a rescue, socialisation may take more time.

• Keep calm, consistent routines
• Reward bravery, even small steps
• Let them retreat when unsure; forcing interaction can set them back

With patience and positive reinforcement, even shy puppies grow into happy, confident dogs who trust you and the world around them.

Tip: Many NZ vet clinics offer puppy-preschool classes for early training and safe socialisation around other dogs. These are great for building confidence in a controlled environment.

10. Why puppy insurance matters

Puppies are curious explorers, and sometimes that curiosity leads to the vet. From swallowing something they shouldn’t to minor tumbles during play, even small accidents can be costly.

Pet insurance lets you focus on your puppy’s recovery, not the bill. It gives peace of mind, covering your pup through growth spurts, zoomies, and everyday adventures

In the past 12 months, Petcover NZ has seen that even young pups can rack up surprising vet costs: (Nov 2024 – Nov 2025)

Lameness remains the top driver of claims in both cost and frequency, while hip dysplasia is the most expensive condition on average.
These aren’t rare cases – they’re everyday examples of how active, healthy puppies can suddenly need extra care.

Protection for all stages of life

Petcover NZ offers:

• Up to $20,000 vet fee annual cover on selected plans
• Umbrella for Life® protection that continues across your puppy’s lifetime
• Direct vet payments to reduce stress during treatment
• Flexible plan options to suit every budget and breed
• No breed exclusions as long as there are no pre-existing conditions or symptoms at the time of taking out your policy

Your puppy’s first year will be full of big milestones – learning, growing, exploring, and discovering the world around them. Through all the adventures (and the occasional muddy paw prints), Petcover NZ is here to help you protect what matters most.

Starting insurance early means your pup is covered before any health issues appear – giving you the confidence to enjoy every moment, knowing their wellbeing is safeguarded for life.