What the first weeks usually involve
- A safe puppy area with a crate, a pen or a gated room, water and a few chew toys.
- A written schedule for meals, potty breaks, play, naps and bedtime that every adult follows.
- A first vet visit, where you ask when and where your puppy can safely meet other dogs and visit public places.
- Short handling practice: touching paws, ears and mouth gently, with treats.
- Quiet time apart from the family, built a few minutes at a time.
Towns in this guide. Around Charleston, Berkeley and the Lowcountry coast.
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Good questions
Before you begin.
When can my puppy go outside the yard?
That is a question for your vet. Vaccine timing differs by puppy and by local disease risk, so ask what is safe for yours instead of relying on a general rule.
Should the puppy sleep in my bedroom?
Many households keep the crate near the bed at first so a young puppy can be taken out at night, then move it later. Pick one plan and stay with it.
How soon should training begin?
Right away, in small ways. Reward calm behavior, repeat the same words and keep sessions short. Formal lessons can come once your puppy has settled.
Do I need a trainer in the first weeks?
Not always. Some households prefer a short consult early to set routines, while others wait until chewing, biting or leash habits appear.
