Ultimate puppy guide: Care, training and nutrition

The first few days with a new puppy can sometimes feel a bit like chaos. One minute they’re curled up in your lap, the next they’re gnawing on a shoe, chasing their shadow, or trying to investigate something they definitely shouldn’t (probably the kitchen bin!).

Those early weeks are when puppies are learning the most about the world around them. With a bit of preparation, patient training, and plenty of aroha, you can help your pup grow into a confident dog who’s a great companion for years to come.

From setting up a safe home to training, socialisation, and puppy vaccinations, here’s what Kiwi dog owners should know when raising a puppy – with guidance from our veterinarian, Dr. Rosalind Holland (BVSc, MVM, MANZCVS).

Setting up a safe and puppy-friendly home

Whether you’re bringing home a puppy that is familiar with home environments or a rescue pup more acquainted with a shelter environment, it’s worth taking a look around your home from a puppy’s perspective. Things that seem harmless to us can quickly become hazards for those with curious noses and exploring mouths.

Dr. Holland says preparation makes a big difference in keeping puppies safe: “Before your puppy arrives, you want to make sure their new home is safe and comfortable.”

“Ensure that possible toxins are safely secured. Cleaning products, house plants, and even some human foods can be dangerous for dogs,” Dr. Holland adds.

Don’t know where to start? Here are a few key things to consider when puppy-proofing your home:

• Store cleaning products, medications, and chemicals out of reach
• Remove or secure toxic houseplants
• Keep electrical cords tucked away
• Block off unsafe areas like steep stairs or balconies
• Set up a quiet sleeping space where your puppy can rest

Many owners also choose to crate train, which can provide a safe space where your pup can relax and sleep. When introduced properly, crates can support toilet training and help puppies settle into new routines.

Essential training tips for your new pup

Training starts the moment your puppy arrives home. The good news is that puppies are naturally eager to learn and relish positive attention from humans.

Keep things simple by making training sessions short, positive, and full of rewards.

Instead of long sessions, aim for several quick bursts of training throughout the day. Puppies have short attention spans, so five minutes can be more effective than half an hour.

Dr. Holland suggests starting with foundational behaviours such as:

• Sit: A great starting cue for calm behaviour and polite greetings
• Wait: Helpful for doorways and mealtimes
• Recall: Teaching your dog to come to you

One challenge many owners face early on is how to stop their puppy from biting. Puppy mouthing is completely normal, especially during teething, but it’s important to redirect the behaviour.

Helpful strategies include:

• Offering chew toys instead of hands or clothing
• Pausing play if biting becomes too rough
• Rewarding gentle behaviour with praise or treats

Early socialisation: Helping your puppy grow with confidence

One of the most important jobs during your puppy’s first few months is socialisation. This is the process of safely introducing your puppy to the world around them and allowing them to have positive experiences.

Dr. Holland explains why this stage matters so much: “Socialisation is vitally important for puppies to grow into confident adult dogs who behave well in society. Puppies need to be exposed to lots of new experiences, such as new people, other dogs, and different situations.”

A well-socialised puppy is more likely to grow into a calm, adaptable adult dog.

Some great socialisation opportunities include:

• Meeting a range of people (including children and older adults)
• Hearing different everyday sounds
• Exploring new environments like parks or quiet streets
• Encountering other friendly, vaccinated dogs

“Puppy classes are safe places for puppies who are not yet fully vaccinated to socialise. Other options for puppies to safely get out and about include dog prams and carrying your puppy,” Dr. Holland says.

Avoid exposing your puppy to unknown and unvaccinated dogs and high-risk environments until their vaccination course is completed. Also, keep in mind that dog parks are not a good place to socialise puppies, even after they are fully vaccinated.

Health check-ups and vaccinations: What to expect

Your puppy’s first year involves several important veterinary visits to support their health and development. All puppies need to complete a course of core vaccinations to keep them safe from serious illnesses, like parvovirus.

These visits aren’t just about vaccines. Your vet will also perform a full health check.

“These appointments are a good opportunity to get further preventative health care advice, and to get your puppy microchipped or check their microchip is working,” Dr. Holland tells us.

It’s also important to remember your legal responsibilities as a dog owner. All dogs must be registered with your local council by three months old.

Regular vet visits, parasite prevention, and good nutrition all help build a strong foundation for your dog’s wellbeing.

Building good habits: Desensitisation, teeth brushing, and grooming

The easiest habits to teach are the ones you can introduce to your pet early.

Dr. Holland recommends helping puppies become comfortable with everyday handling and care from a young age.

“Start early, get your puppy used to wearing a collar and walking on a lead. Introduce your puppy to grooming tools, nail clippers, toothbrushes, and touching around their ears and feet early in life and regularly, while giving lots of treats.”

This process is called desensitisation, an important part of socialisation, and it helps puppies learn that new experiences are safe and positive.

For example:

• Gently handle your puppy’s paws while offering treats
• Let them sniff grooming tools before using them
• Practice short sessions of tooth brushing
• Try on a collar or harness for short periods at first

Dr. Holland also recommends building positive experiences around vet visits. “Popping into the vet clinic for a quick positive hello and some treats regularly can help set your puppy up for low-stress vet visits in the future.”

Preparing for lifelong pet care

The close care doesn’t stop once the puppy stage ends. As your dog goes through different stages of life, they’ll need ongoing care, training, and health support.

Routine vet visits, quality nutrition, exercise, and enrichment all help keep dogs happy and healthy throughout their lives.

Many pet parents also consider pet insurance to help manage unexpected veterinary costs. Want to learn more about protecting your dog’s health as they grow? Explore how SPCA Pet Insurance can support your pet’s wellbeing at every stage of life.