Welcoming a puppy into your life is one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences—but it also comes with its fair share of challenges, sleepless nights, and plenty of chewed slippers. From choosing the right pup to surviving teething, training, and toilet accidents, this guide covers the 50 most important questions you’ll want answered before and after your puppy arrives.

1. How do I know if I’m ready for a puppy?

Puppies require time, money, patience, and attention, so think daily walks, regular training, vet visits, and lots of love. If you’re prepared for disrupted sleep and commitment for 10+ years, you’re on the right track.

2. What should I consider when choosing a breed?

Think about exercise needs, grooming requirements, size, temperament, and compatibility with your home and lifestyle. A working breed like a Spaniel needs more stimulation than a laid-back Bulldog.

3. Where should I get my puppy from?

Choose a reputable breeder who health tests their dogs and raises pups in a home environment. Alternatively, consider adopting from a rescue that rehomes puppies. Always avoid puppy farms.

4. What age should a puppy come home?

Puppies should stay with their mother and littermates until at least 8 weeks old. Earlier separation can affect their development and socialisation.

5. What puppy supplies do I need?

You’ll need a bed, crate, lead, collar with ID tag, puppy-safe toys, grooming tools, food and water bowls, and puppy-appropriate food, such as Poppy’s Picnic raw meals, which are suitable for puppies and dogs of all ages.

6. How do I prepare my home for a puppy?

Puppy-proof your space. Remove hazards, block off unsafe areas, tuck away cables, and secure bins. Provide a safe zone like a crate or playpen for rest and calm.

7. What should I feed my puppy?

Choose a food designed for healthy puppy development. Poppy’s Picnic raw puppy food provides a natural, balanced diet without artificial additives. Follow feeding guidelines and adjust as your pup grows.

8. How often should I feed my puppy?

Young puppies typically eat 3–4 times per day. Poppy’s Picnic offers a portion calculator to help determine the right amount based on your puppy’s age and weight.

9. Can I give my puppy treats?

Yes, but sparingly. Choose natural, healthy treats and use them for training. Adjust main meals accordingly to avoid overfeeding.

10. How do I toilet train my puppy?

Take your puppy outside every 1–2 hours, especially after meals, naps, or play. Praise and reward them for going in the right spot. Accidents are normal, stay calm and consistent.

11. Should I use puppy pads?

Puppy pads can be helpful initially, but outdoor toilet training is the goal. Transition gradually and avoid creating long-term indoor habits.

12. How do I deal with crying at night?

Keep your puppy close by in the early days—hearing your presence helps them settle. Establish a calming bedtime routine and avoid responding to every whimper unless it’s urgent.

13. Should I crate train my puppy?

Yes, crate training provides a safe space and helps with toilet training. Make it cosy, never use it for punishment, and introduce it gradually with positive reinforcement.

14. How much sleep does a puppy need?

Puppies need up to 18–20 hours of sleep per day. Overstimulation can lead to overtiredness and poor behaviour, ensure they get plenty of quiet time.

15. What’s the best way to start training?

Begin with simple cues like “sit,” “down,” and “come.” Keep sessions short and positive. Reward with treats, praise, or play.

16. When can my puppy go for walks?

After their vaccinations are complete, typically around 12 weeks. Until then, carry them outside for safe exposure to sights and sounds.

17. How much exercise does a puppy need?

Use the five-minute rule: five minutes of structured exercise per month of age, twice a day. Avoid overexertion during growth stages.

18. Can I take my puppy outside before vaccinations?

Not on the ground where unknown dogs have been, but you can carry them or use a puppy sling to begin safe socialisation.

19. When do puppies get vaccinated?

Typically at 8 and 12 weeks. Your vet will advise on the schedule, including boosters and optional vaccines like kennel cough.

20. Does my puppy need worming and flea treatment?

Yes. Start worming from 2–3 weeks old and continue regularly. Flea prevention typically begins around 8 weeks. Your vet will guide you.

21. Should I microchip my puppy?

Definitely. It’s now a legal requirement in the UK for all dogs over eight weeks old. Ensure your details are kept up to date.

22. How do I socialise my puppy safely?

Expose them to different people, dogs, noises, surfaces, and experiences gradually. Aim for positive experiences and never overwhelm them.

23. What’s a socialisation window?

It’s the critical period (up to 16 weeks) when puppies are most receptive to new experiences. Use this time wisely to shape a confident adult dog.

24. What if my puppy seems nervous?

Avoid forcing interactions. Let them explore at their own pace, reward calm behaviour, and provide a safe retreat. Consult a trainer if needed.

25. How can I stop nipping and biting?

Redirect to chew toys, stop play if biting continues, and use a firm “ouch” to signal it hurts. Teething is normal but requires gentle guidance.

26. When does teething happen?

Teething starts around 3 weeks and peaks at 4–6 months. Offer frozen carrots, chilled chew toys, or teething treats from Poppy’s Picnic to soothe sore gums.

27. What’s the best way to introduce a collar and lead?

Start indoors with short sessions. Let them wear the collar for a few minutes at a time, then attach the lead and practice walking in a safe space.

28. How do I teach my puppy to walk nicely on a lead?

Use treats to encourage them to stay close. Reward often and stop walking if they pull. Be patient as lead manners take time.

29. How can I prevent separation anxiety?

Begin short periods alone, even if you’re home. Avoid making a fuss when leaving or returning. Build independence gradually.

30. When can my puppy meet other dogs?

After full vaccinations, introduce them to friendly, vaccinated dogs. Choose calm, well-socialised playmates to build positive associations.

31. How can I help my puppy learn their name?

Say their name in a happy tone and reward them when they look at you. Use it positively and never to scold.

32. When should I start recall training?

Immediately! Use a long lead outdoors and reward every time they come back to you. Make it fun, use toys or high-value treats like Poppy’s Picnic’s natural bites.

33. How do I stop my puppy jumping up?

Ignore the jumping, turn away, and reward calm behaviour with all four paws on the floor. Be consistent and avoid encouraging it accidentally.

34. How do I handle chewing furniture?

Provide chew alternatives, supervise, and redirect. Use bitter sprays if needed, and ensure they’re getting enough exercise and mental stimulation.

35. How often should I groom my puppy?

Start gentle brushing early to build tolerance. Frequency depends on coat type, daily for long-haired breeds, weekly for short-haired.

36. When should I bathe my puppy?

Only when necessary but usually no more than once a month. Use a gentle, puppy-safe shampoo and keep the experience calm and positive.

37. How do I trim my puppy’s nails?

Start handling their paws from a young age. Use puppy nail clippers and trim a little at a time. If unsure, ask your groomer or vet to show you.

38. When can I take my puppy to the groomer?

From 12 weeks once vaccinations are complete. Many groomers offer introductory puppy sessions to familiarise them with the process.

39. Do puppies need insurance?

Yes puppies are accident-prone and prone to health conditions as they grow. Lifetime cover offers the best long-term protection.

40. How do I teach “leave it”?

Hold a treat in your hand, say “leave it,” and reward when they back off. Build up slowly to dropped food or tempting objects.

41. What’s enrichment and why does my puppy need it?

Enrichment involves activities that engage your puppy’s brain, like puzzle feeders, sniffing games, or hide and seek. It prevents boredom and destructive behaviour.

42. How do I manage car journeys with a puppy?

Use a crate or harness, start with short trips, and build positive associations. Bring water and a toy, and never leave them alone in the car.

43. When should I neuter my puppy?

Neutering is usually done after 6 months but varies by breed and size. Speak to your vet for personalised advice.

44. What’s the best way to prevent resource guarding?

Handle their food gently during meals, swap items with high-value treats, and teach “drop it.” Respect their space and never punish.

45. Can I change my puppy’s food?

Yes, but do it gradually over 7–10 days. If switching to a raw diet like Poppy’s Picnic, follow their transition guide for a smooth adjustment.

46. How do I track my puppy’s growth?

Weigh them weekly, track their development, and adjust food portions as they grow. Poppy’s Picnic offers feeding guidance based on your puppy’s weight and age.

47. What are signs of a healthy puppy?

Bright eyes, clean ears, a shiny coat, firm stools, and playful energy. Contact your vet if you notice vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, or loss of appetite.

48. How long does it take for a puppy to settle in?

Most puppies take a few weeks to adjust. You might see progress within days, but full bonding and routine may take a couple of months.

49. What are common first-time puppy mistakes?

Inconsistency, lack of boundaries, under-socialisation, and overfeeding. Stick to a routine, use positive reinforcement, and stay calm. It’s a learning curve for both of you.

50. What’s the most important thing to remember when raising a puppy?

Patience, positivity, and preparation. Raising a happy, confident dog starts with good foundations, plenty of love, the right nutrition and a safe, consistent environment.