Cute puppy at home in a natural and bright environment

Everything You Need to Know
For Your New Puppy

The Complete Guide to Raising a Puppy at Home: Equipment, Nutrition, Health and Training — From Day One to a Successful First Year.

Everything Your New Puppy Needs

Got a new puppy home? We're here to help at every stage — from initial equipment to ongoing support. Puppies in the Village offers a variety of services and products that will make the beginning a pleasant and safe experience.

Proper Nutrition at a Young Age

Balanced nutrition is the foundation for healthy growth. In our store you'll find:

  • Dry and wet food adapted for puppies
  • Nutritional supplements for bone and joint support
  • Healthy, low-calorie training treats
  • Personal consultation from experienced team for choosing the right food

Training and Home Adaptation

The right beginning determines character for years. We recommend:

  • Fixed daily routine from day one
  • Training crate as safe and calming space
  • Positive reinforcement in every interaction
  • Setting clear and consistent boundaries

Health and Preventive Medicine

Puppy health starts with simple and early steps:

  • Initial vaccinations according to schedule
  • Treatment against fleas and ticks
  • Veterinary examination in the first weeks
  • Hygiene and dental and paw health products

Puppies for Adoption from Regulated Breeding

Dreaming of expanding the family? Our puppies grow in a safe environment:

  • Diverse breeds from supervised and responsible breeding
  • Vaccinated and treated puppies before delivery
  • Support and guidance after adoption
  • Complete documentation and health certificate for each puppy

New Puppy Guide

First Steps to Life Together

Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting and loving experience. With a little knowledge and patience, you can give him the best foundation for a healthy and happy life. Here's everything important to know in the first weeks.

Feeding and Water

Feed the puppy three to four times a day in small, measured portions, according to his age and breed. Make sure there's always a clean and full water bowl within reach. It's better to continue with the same food he received from the breeder in the first weeks, and gradually change if needed.

Quality Treats

Treats are an essential tool for training and bonding. Choose small, protein-rich treats designed for puppies. Avoid human food, chocolate, onions and garlic. Reward with a treat immediately after desired behavior — the puppy learns quickly when the reward is immediate and consistent.

Bathing and Brushing

Bathe the puppy for the first time only after he has adapted to your home, usually after a week or two. Use gentle shampoo designed for puppies and lukewarm water. Daily short brushing strengthens the bond between you and gets him used to touch — it's important to do this gently and in a pleasant atmosphere.

Sleep and Nighttime Crying

The first nights may be challenging — the puppy might cry and miss his mother and siblings. Prepare a comfortable and protected bed for him, possibly with a warm water bottle wrapped in a blanket. Be consistent and calm — in most cases the puppy adapts within a few days and starts sleeping peacefully.

Cute puppy resting in a well-maintained home environment

It's Completely Normal for a Puppy to Sleep a Lot

Puppies aged 8–16 weeks sleep between 16 to 20 hours per day. Deep sleep is essential for growth, nervous system development and immune system strengthening. Don't worry — a tired puppy is a healthy puppy growing as he should.

Frequently Asked Questions About Raising a New Puppy

We've brought you the questions every puppy owner asks in the first weeks — with direct and practical answers from our experience at Puppies in the Village.

How to Train a Puppy to Use Pee Pads?

The secret is consistency and patience. Immediately after sleep, eating and play — take the puppy to the pad and praise him warmly when he succeeds. Choose one fixed location, don't change it, and make sure the pad is always clean. Within two to three weeks most puppies understand the expectation.

Avoid scolding after the fact — the puppy won't connect the scolding with the action he did. A quiet reaction and quick cleanup are much better.

How to Properly Clean When the Puppy Pees on the Floor?

Proper cleaning is crucial — if odor remains, the puppy will continue returning to the same spot. Use an enzyme solution specifically for pets (not regular soap water) that breaks down the proteins in urine and completely eliminates the odor.

Wipe the area, apply the solution, leave for a few minutes and then wipe again. Avoid cleaning products with ammonia — their smell is similar to urine and may worsen the problem.

Is It Allowed to Go on Walks Before Completing Vaccinations?

This is a question that concerns every puppy owner. Medically speaking, until the completion of the basic vaccination series (usually around 16 weeks of age), contact with unvaccinated dogs and unknown public ground should be limited.

However, social exposure is equally crucial. You can carry the puppy in your arms, visit homes with vaccinated dogs, and familiarize them with different environments in a controlled manner — in coordination with your veterinarian.

How to Get a Puppy Used to a Collar and Leash?

Start with a light, soft collar that you put on the puppy for a few minutes a day during play or feeding time, so they associate it with a positive experience. After several days, attach a short leash and let the puppy drag it around the house.

When the puppy is comfortable with the leash, take the end in your hand and start following them. Gradually reverse the direction — the puppy will learn to walk beside you. Don't pull forcefully; use treats and encouragement.

Should You Use a Puppy Gate and Training Crate?

Absolutely yes. A crate is an excellent tool — when introduced properly, the puppy sees it as their own safe and quiet place, not a punishment. It also helps greatly with house training, as puppies avoid soiling their sleeping area.

A puppy gate allows you to create a safe area in the house where the puppy can play freely without reaching dangers. A combination of gate and crate gives the puppy a clear framework and gives you peace of mind in the first weeks.

When to Take a Puppy to the Vet and How Many Vaccinations Are Needed?

It's recommended to take the puppy for their first checkup within 48-72 hours of bringing them home. The veterinarian will examine their general condition, verify the vaccination protocol that has begun, and customize a personal treatment plan.

The basic vaccination series usually includes 3 doses at ages 6-8, 10-12, and 14-16 weeks, followed by annual vaccination. Additionally, worms and fleas should be treated according to veterinary guidelines. Don't delay — vaccinations protect both your puppy and the environment.

Ready to Welcome Your New Puppy?

We're here for any question, personal consultation, or anything you'll need before your puppy's arrival. Whether it's initial equipment, suitable food, or simply a consultation call — the Gorim BaKfar team will be happy to accompany you at every stage.