Bringing home a new puppy is exciting — and the first week sets the tone for health, behaviour, and bonding. If you’ve just adopted a puppy in South Delhi, this guide gives you a clear, practical plan for days 1–7, common signs to watch for, and when to contact your local vet clinic.
Why the first week matters
The first week is critical for socialization, routine-building, and checking health. Puppies adapt quickly; calm, consistent care helps prevent future behaviour problems and supports immune development. Early vet attention also catches issues before they worsen.
Day-by-day checklist (Days 1–7)
- Day 1: Safe arrival and comfort. Introduce your puppy to a quiet, warm room with a comfortable bed and water. Avoid loud visitors. Let your pup explore at their own pace and offer gentle reassurance.
- Day 2: Establish feeding and toileting routine. Feed small meals on a regular schedule (3–4 times daily for very young pups). Take them to the same toileting spot after meals and naps to encourage house-training.
- Day 3: Gentle handling and name training. Handle paws, ears, and mouth briefly to build tolerance for future grooming and vet checks. Start using their name paired with treats to create positive associations.
- Day 4: Short play and rest cycles. Puppies need lots of sleep. Offer 10–15 minute play sessions followed by quiet downtime. Avoid overstimulation which can make housetraining harder.
- Day 5: First basic rules. Decide on off-limit furniture and areas, and be consistent. Begin simple commands like “sit” using praise and treats.
- Day 6: Social exposure (controlled). Introduce one calm person or vaccinated dog at a time, outdoors or in a controlled environment. Avoid crowded places until vaccinations are complete.
- Day 7: Vet check planning. Book a first veterinary visit within the first week if you haven’t already. Your vet will check overall health, parasite status, and vaccination scheduling.
Common symptoms and red flags to watch for
Most puppies show mild stress in a new home — hiding, reduced appetite for 24–48 hours, or restlessness. However, contact your vet urgently if you notice:
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea (especially with blood)
- Lethargy, weakness, or collapse
- Labored breathing, coughing, or nasal discharge
- Refusal to eat for more than 48 hours
- Pale gums, excessive drooling, or signs of pain
- Visible parasites, severe scratching, or sudden hair loss
- Timely veterinary care prevents complications from dehydration, infections, or congenital issues.
Basic health care in week one
- Deworming: Many puppies have intestinal worms. Your vet will recommend a deworming schedule starting as early as 2–3 weeks of age depending on history.
- Vaccination plan: The first vaccine visit is typically at 6–8 weeks. If your puppy is older, your vet will adjust the schedule. Avoid high-risk public areas until core vaccines are complete.
- Flea and tick prevention: Start appropriate products only after consulting your vet, especially for very young or small-breed puppies.
- Nutrition: Feed a high-quality puppy food labeled complete and balanced. Follow portion guidelines by weight and age. Avoid sudden diet changes; if you must switch food, do it gradually over 5–7 days.
- Grooming basics: Brush gently, check ears, trim nails carefully, and start teeth cleaning early to build positive habits.
House-training and behaviour tips
- Consistency: Take the puppy to the same toileting spot and schedule feeds and bathroom breaks regularly (after meals, naps, and play).
- Positive reinforcement: Reward good behaviour with praise and treats. Avoid harsh punishment; it increases fear and confusion.
- Crate training: A properly sized crate becomes a safe den and aids housetraining. Never use it for punishment.
- Bite inhibition: Redirect nips to chew toys and stop play briefly when biting is too hard.
Finding a vet in South Delhi
Choose a nearby clinic that offers puppy wellness checks, vaccinations, emergency care, and parasite control. Check Google reviews, ask about appointment availability, and confirm they handle young puppies. Save the clinic’s contact and emergency hours before a crisis occurs.
Conclusion
The first week with your puppy is a mix of joy, patience, and careful observation. Follow a simple routine, watch for red flags, and schedule a vet visit within seven days. With consistent care and early veterinary guidance, your puppy will start life healthy and secure in your South Delhi home.
