THE FIRST WEEK WITH YOUR AUSSIE PUPPY
10 things you’re better off not doing
The first week in a new home is a big change for a puppy. Everything is new: the surroundings, the people, the smells and the rules.
Many problems arise because people try to expose their puppy to too much too soon.
Calm and structure help a puppy feel safe and secure.
1. Don’t take your puppy everywhere straight away
It can be tempting to introduce your puppy to everyone immediately.
But for a young puppy, moving into a new home is already a big experience.
Give your puppy time to settle into their new environment first.
2. Don’t have too many visitors
Meeting lots of new people at once can be overwhelming for a puppy.
Let your puppy first build trust and a bond with their new family.
3. Don’t play constantly
Play is important, but a puppy doesn’t need to be entertained all day.
Too much play can lead to:
• biting and mouthing
• overexcitement
• difficulty listening
Rest is just as important as activity.
4. Don’t allow everything just because your puppy is still small
What seems “cute” today can become a problem later.
For example:
• jumping up
• biting hands
• climbing on furniture
A puppy needs clear boundaries from the very beginning.
5. Don’t go on long walks straight away
A young puppy’s bones and joints are still developing.
Short, calm walks are enough.
6. Don’t train for too long at once
Aussies learn quickly, but short sessions work better than long training sessions.
A few minutes at a time is often enough.
7. Don’t respond to every whine
A puppy may sometimes whine because they:
• want attention
• are tired
• simply need time to adjust
Not every whine means you need to respond immediately.
8. Don’t try to teach everything at once
At first, focus on a few simple things:
• recognising their name
• house training
• calm behaviour
The rest will come later.
9. Don’t forget that puppies need a lot of sleep
A young puppy can sleep 16 to 20 hours a day.
This is normal and important for healthy development.
10. Don’t forget to enjoy it
Puppyhood passes quickly.
With calm, clear guidance and patience, your puppy can grow into a stable and wonderful dog.
Finally
Australian Shepherds and Miniature American Shepherds are intelligent, sensitive dogs that form strong bonds with their people.
With calm, structure and clear communication, they can develop into loyal, stable and wonderful family dogs.
– Canine Compass – Where calm gives direction –