Bringing home a new puppy is one of the most exciting and memorable moments for any family. Whether this is your first puppy or your fifth, those first few weeks are essential for building confidence, structure, and trust. At Storybrooke Goldens in Stafford, Virginia, we help new owners start off right with healthy, well-socialized Golden Retrievers raised in our home with our children.

Here are five essential tips every new puppy owner should know.

1. Establish a Routine Right Away

Puppies thrive on structure. A predictable routine helps them understand what is expected and reduces anxiety during their transition to a new home.

A good daily routine includes:

• Morning potty break

• Feeding times

• Short training sessions

• Playtime

• Nap times

• Evening wind-down

The more consistent you are, the faster your puppy will learn.

2. Start Crate Training Early

A crate is not a punishment — it is a safe, comfortable space where your puppy can rest and feel secure. Crate training helps with:

• Potty training

• Preventing chewing

• Creating quiet time

• Traveling safely

Keep the crate in a calm area, add soft bedding, and make it a positive experience with treats and praise.

3. Socialize from Day One

Proper socialization builds a confident and well-adjusted dog. Introduce your puppy to different sounds, surfaces, people, and experiences in a safe way.

Examples of healthy early socialization:

• Meeting children & adults

• Getting used to household noises

• Car rides

• Short visits to safe public places

• Gentle handling of paws, ears, and collar

At Storybrooke Goldens, our puppies grow up in a busy family home, so they already have a strong foundation.

4. Choose Quality Food & Stick to a Feeding Schedule

Young puppies need consistent nutrition to grow properly. Avoid switching foods immediately—transition slowly over 7–10 days to prevent stomach upset.

Look for:

• High-quality puppy food

• No artificial fillers

• Balanced DHA for brain development

• Proper calcium and phosphorus ratios

If you’re unsure, ask your veterinarian or breeder for recommendations.

5. Schedule Early Vet Visits & Preventative Care

Health begins early. Schedule your puppy’s first vet appointment shortly after bringing them home.

Your vet will help with:

• Vaccination schedule

• Parasite prevention

• Growth monitoring

• Spay/neuter timing

At Storybrooke Goldens, all puppies go home with veterinary records, deworming, and age-appropriate vaccinations.

Final Thoughts

Your puppy’s first weeks at home lay the foundation for a lifetime of trust, companionship, and joy. With the right routine, training, and support, your puppy will grow into a confident and well-mannered adult.

At Storybrooke Goldens, we are always here to help — whether you are a first-time puppy parent or an experienced dog lover. Feel free to reach out to us anytime for guidance, training tips, or updates on upcoming litters.

🐾 From our home to yours — happy puppy raising!