Adopting Your First Puppy: What You Need to Know

Thinking about bringing a puppy home for the first time? Beyond their adorable faces and playful antics, adopting a puppy is a long-term commitment—often 12 to 18 years! First-time puppy parents need to consider everything from daily care and socialization to early training and establishing routines. With the right preparation and guidance, you can set your puppy up for a happy, well-behaved life from the very beginning.

Get tips from a certified professional dog trainer to help your new puppy settle in, learn good habits, and grow into a confident, well-adjusted companion.

How to Train Your Dog or Puppy to Settle Down

Doggie decompression uses gentle restraint or controlled confinement to help a dog or puppy learn to relax and settle. This technique can be an effective step in managing behaviors like hyperactivity and even separation anxiety. Learn positive, science-based strategies from a certified professional dog trainer to help your dog stay calm, confident, and comfortable when left alone or in stimulating environments.