How to Create a Daily Routine for Your New Puppy

How to Create a Daily Routine for Your New Puppy

How to Create a Daily Routine for Your New Puppy

Bringing home a new puppy is an adventure, but it can be overwhelming. A daily routine is key to your puppy’s development, training and overall well-being. A structured schedule helps your pup feel secure and know what’s expected of them.

Summary:

This guide outlines a daily routine for new puppies, covering feeding times, potty breaks, play sessions, training and sleep schedules to promote healthy development and house training.

Morning Routine

7:00 AM – Wake-Up and First Potty Break
Take your puppy outside to their potty area. Morning potty breaks help with house training.

7:15 AM – Breakfast
Feed your puppy a measured amount of high quality puppy food. Puppies need 3-4 meals a day.

7:30 AM – Gentle Play and Training
Play lightly to stimulate your puppy mentally and physically. Introduce basic commands like “sit” or “stay” with positive reinforcement.

8:00 AM – Potty Break
After play, take your puppy outside again to reinforce potty training.

8:15 AM – Nap Time
Puppies need a lot of rest. Put your puppy in their crate or designated sleeping area for a nap.

Midday Routine

11:00 AM – Wake-Up and Potty Break
When your puppy wakes up, take them outside.

11:15 AM – Lunch
Second meal of the day. Make sure fresh water is always available.

11:30 AM – Socialization and Exploration
Introduce your puppy to new areas of your home or garden, ensuring safety and supervision. Positive exposures help with social development.

12:00 PM – Potty Break
Consistent trips outside prevent accidents and build routine.

12:15 PM – Nap Time
Another rest period to support growth and development.

Afternoon Routine

3:00 PM – Wake-Up and Potty Break
Always take your puppy outside after naps.

3:15 PM – Snack (Optional)
Depending on your puppy’s breed and energy level, a small healthy snack can be given.

3:30 PM – Training Session
Short positive training sessions help good behaviour. Focus on one command at a time.4:00 PM – Potty Break and Playtime
Combine a potty break with interactive play like fetch or tug-of-war to burn off energy.

4:30 PM – Nap Time
Rest is important after active periods.

Evening Routine

6:30 PM – Wake-Up and Potty Break
Stick to the routine of going outside after naps.

6:45 PM – Dinner
Last meal of the day. Consistent feeding times help with digestion and predictability.

7:00 PM – Family Time
Let your puppy interact with household members to bond and socialise.

7:30 PM – Potty Break
Regular breaks reduce nighttime accidents.

8:00 PM – Calm Activities
Do gentle petting or provide a chew toy to wind down.

9:00 PM – Final Potty Break
Last trip outside before bed.

9:15 PM – Bedtime
Put your puppy in their crate or sleeping area. A consistent bedtime helps with routine.

Tips for Success

  • Consistency is Key: Following a regular schedule helps your puppy know what to expect and reduces anxiety.

  • Monitor Potty Signals: Learn to recognise when your puppy needs to go, such as sniffing or circling.

  • Positive Reinforcement: Reward good behaviour with praise or treats to encourage repetition.

  • Limit Water Before Bed: To reduce nighttime accidents, consider removing the water bowl an hour before bed.

  • Patience and Flexibility: While routines are important, be prepared to adjust based on your puppy’s individual needs and cues.

Conclusion

Having a structured daily routine for your new puppy sets the foundation for a well-adjusted and happy adult dog. With consistent feeding times, regular potty breaks, plenty of play, training sessions and enough rest, you’ll create a nurturing environment that supports healthy development and a strong bond between you and your new furry friend.

Further Reading: 

8-Week Puppy Routine: Feeding, Training & Sleep Tips

Join the Conversation:

Just brought home a new puppy? Share your experiences, tips and questions in the comments below or connect with us on Instagram @mymutt.life.

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