Here’s your go-to guide to make homecoming day a happy, stress-free experience for everyone.

Family welcoming home a new doodle puppy

Bringing home a Doodle puppy is one of life’s sweetest joys—but it also comes with a bit of prep work. Whether you’re welcoming a Goldendoodle, Bernedoodle, Sheepadoodle, or Cavadoodle, getting your home ready will help your puppy settle in smoothly and give you peace of mind.

Here’s your go-to guide to make homecoming day a happy, stress-free experience for everyone.

1. Set Up a Puppy Zone

Before your puppy steps paw into your house, create a dedicated space where they’ll eat, sleep, and relax.

• Use a playpen or baby gate to create a safe boundary.

• Include a comfy crate, water bowl, chew toys, and a soft blanket that smells like their littermates (we’ll send one home with your pup!).

• Avoid high-traffic areas to prevent overstimulation the first few days.

Once your puppy has settled into this area, introduce them to the rest of your home slowly—one room at a time. Exploring too much too soon can feel overwhelming or even frightening. Gradual exposure helps build confidence and gives your puppy a sense of security as they adjust to their new environment.

2. Stock the Essentials

You don’t need a ton of stuff—but a few quality items go a long way.

Here’s what we recommend:

• Adjustable collar and leash

• Stainless steel or ceramic food and water bowls

• Chew toys and puzzle toys

• Puppy food (we’ll let you know what your pup has been eating here)

• Crate sized for your puppy’s adult weight, with a divider to adjust the space as they grow

  • Your pup should be able to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably, but not have so much space that they can potty in one corner and sleep in another. A properly sized crate encourages good habits during house training.

• Potty training pads or a bell for door training

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3. Plan for Potty Training

Consistency is key. Choose a potty spot outside and take your puppy there every single time—especially after meals, play, and naps.

Keep potty pads nearby in case of indoor accidents early on. And yes—there will be accidents. That’s all part of the process.

4. Prepare Your Family

Make sure everyone in the house is on the same page about puppy rules and routines.

• Where will the puppy sleep the first night?

• Who’s on potty duty?

• Are there “no puppy” zones in the home?

Kids especially should know how to interact gently and respectfully. Puppies may nip, jump, or bark—it’s all normal and temporary.

5. Schedule the First Vet Visit

Your puppy will come home with vaccinations up to date and will already be microchipped, but it’s important to schedule a wellness check within the first few days.

Bring any health records we’ve provided, and talk to your vet about vaccines, heartworm prevention, etc.

6. Give Grace (and Treats!)

Your Doodle is experiencing big changes—new sights, smells, people, and routines. Be patient and keep a calm, consistent routine. Celebrate the small wins—like going potty outside, calmly entering the crate, or responding to their name—with treats, praise, and affection.

Positive reinforcement builds trust and confidence, and it helps your puppy learn what behaviors you want to see more of. Focus on rewarding good choices rather than scolding mistakes. Puppies thrive on encouragement, and those happy tail wags are proof!

This early bonding phase sets the tone for your relationship—and with kindness and consistency, your Doodle will quickly learn they’re safe, loved, and home.

Final Thoughts

At Happy Top Doodles, we believe homecoming day should be joyful, not overwhelming. We’re here to support you every step of the way, from preparing your space to answering questions once your pup is home.

Your puppy isn’t just joining your house—they’re joining your family. And that’s the best part.