Small puppy. So many questions.
Start with a workable routine, understand the difficult phases and teach useful skills without rushing development.
The first week
Your puppy’s first week: a workable plan
From the journey home to the first nights, build a rhythm you can sustain.
In-depth handbookDogs · Puppy problemsPuppy sleep, night crying and the evening whirlwind
Help a tired puppy settle without turning every cry into a training battle.
In-depth handbookDogs · Puppy problemsPuppy toilet training: a plan that survives accidents
Build a routine, reward the right place and troubleshoot setbacks without punishment.
Teeth, biting and difficult moments
Puppy biting and nipping: when does it stop?
Why teeth end up on hands, what helps in the moment, and how to recognise a problem.
In-depth handbookDogs · Puppy problemsPuppy teething: ages, loose teeth and safe relief
Understand the change from milk teeth to adult teeth, without treating every mouth problem as normal.
In-depth handbookDogs · Puppy problemsFood, stolen socks and resource guarding
Prevent confrontations and know when a possession problem needs professional support.
Growing a confident companion
Puppy socialisation without overwhelming them
Build confidence in the world while managing disease risk with your vet.
In-depth handbookDogs · First monthsTeaching a puppy to be alone: tiny steps that count
Build independence around comfort, not a stopwatch or a cry-it-out rule.
In-depth handbookDogs · First monthsHandling and grooming: teach cooperation early
Prepare for harnesses, brushing and veterinary checks without restraint battles.
Everyday care as they grow
Feeding your puppy: portions, treats and changing food
Learn to read a feeding plan instead of relying on a universal scoop size.
In-depth handbookDogs · First monthsPuppy exercise: play, sniffing and knowing when to stop
Build appropriate movement without treating tiredness as the only goal.
In-depth handbookDogs · Growing upWhen your puppy becomes a teenager
Keep useful habits going as confidence, interests and everyday behaviour change.
Three common questions
When will my puppy stop being so nippy?
There is no exact stopping age. Teething commonly winds down around six to seven months, but teaching, rest, comfort and context all matter. Read the full biting guide.
When do puppy teeth fall out?
The change often begins around twelve weeks, with most adult teeth present by roughly six to seven months. Use the individual dental check, not the calendar, to assess a concern. See the timeline and safety advice.
Can I take my puppy out before all vaccinations?
Ask your vet for a local risk-based plan. Early socialisation matters, but public ground and busy dog areas are different from controlled arrangements. Plan safe socialisation.