8 things to consider before getting a puppy.
Thinking about getting a puppy? Get ready for a whirlwind of joy — and a whole lot you didn’t expect.
Because here’s the truth most people learn the hard way: falling for a puppy’s face is easy. Actually being ready for one? That’s the part that trips people up.
Over the years, I’ve watched countless well-meaning folks bring home a pup on impulse, then panic three weeks in. This guide is here so that never happens to you.
Below are the 8 things I always tell people to sort out before the puppy comes home. Let’s walk through them.
1. Are You Ready for a Puppy Right Now?
It’s easy to picture the good stuff: long walks, couch cuddles, adorable photos.
But real puppy life looks a little different.
Think early mornings, chewed-up shoes, accidents on the carpet, and more patience than you knew you had. Puppies need near-constant attention in those first few months.
Before you dive in, be honest with yourself:
- I have the time and energy for a puppy right now
- Everyone in my household is genuinely on board
- I can commit to this dog for the next 10–15 years
- I’m getting a puppy just because it’s cute
This isn’t meant to scare you off. It’s just a heads-up.
Puppies are incredible — but at the start, they’re a full-time job.
Quick poll
Be honest — how ready do you feel right now?
Ready? Good. Now let’s pick the right puppy.
2. Choose the Right Breed for Your Life, Not Just Your Eyes
We all have a favorite “look” when it comes to dogs. But choosing a breed on appearance alone is a fast track to frustration.
Here’s why: different breeds have wildly different needs, temperaments, and energy levels.
Love a Husky?
Gorgeous — just be ready for serious daily exercise and a dog that loves to “talk” (read: howl).
Think a Bulldog looks chill?
They can be. But they’re prone to health issues and need careful temperature management.
The lesson? Match the dog to your actual life — your energy, your space, your schedule — not just the picture in your head.
Once you know the breed, the next question is where to get one.
3. Know Where You’re Getting Your Puppy From
This one’s huge — and it’s where impulse buys do real damage.
Buy from the wrong place, and you can unintentionally fund puppy mills. Here’s how the main options stack up.
Reputable Breeder
Pros
- Transparent about health
- Lets you meet the parents
- Provides health clearances
Cons
- More expensive
- Often a waitlist
Shelter or Rescue
Pros
- You’re saving a life
- Dogs of all ages
- Staff know their personalities
Cons
- History may be unknown
- Puppies go fast
Pet Store / Backyard Breeder
Pros
- Convenient
Cons
- Often linked to puppy mills
- Focus on profit, not health
- Poor early socialization
“Shelters and rescues are my personal favorite — you’ll find fantastic dogs of all ages, and you’ll be saving a life.”
Got a source lined up? Time to get your home ready.
4. Puppy-Proof Your Space
Bringing home a puppy is like baby-proofing your home — but with more drool and sharper teeth.
Do this before your pup arrives, not after the first chewed cable.
- Hide electrical cords and cover outlets
- Keep shoes, clothes, and chewables off the floor
- Swap in a trash can with a secure lid
- Check houseplants — many are toxic to dogs
- Lock away cleaning products and meds
Then give your pup a safe zone of their own — a crate or gated area where they can relax without getting into trouble.
Space is ready. Now let’s stock up.
5. Stock Up on Essentials
Don’t wait until you’re holding a wriggly puppy to realize you forgot the basics.
Here’s your day-one starter kit:
- Food and water bowls
- Puppy food (ask a vet or breeder for recommendations)
- A leash and adjustable collar or harness
- Chew toys, puzzle toys, and soft toys
- A crate and a comfy bed
- Training treats
And here’s the part first-timers underestimate: the start-up costs.
Can you guess?
What’s the surprise expense most new owners forget?
Speaking of the vet — let’s sort that out early.
6. Find a Vet Before You Need One
Don’t wait for an emergency to Google “vet near me.”
Do your research while things are calm:
Line up your vet team
- Pick a primary vetSomeone local you trust for routine care, vaccines, and checkups.
- Identify a 24/7 emergency vetEspecially important if your regular clinic has no after-hours service.
A good vet is a lifelong partner in your dog’s health. Take the time to find someone you actually trust.
Home ready, vet ready — now the fun part: training.
7. Learn the Basics of Puppy Training
Even if you plan to hire a trainer later, understanding the basics yourself makes a huge difference.
From day one, you’ll be working on:
Crate training
Teaches your pup that their crate is a safe, calm space — not a punishment.
Potty training
Consistency and timing are everything. Reward every success outside.
Basic commands
Sit, stay, and come build a foundation for everything else.
Socialization
Gently expose your pup to new people, dogs, and environments.
One last thing — and it’s easy to overlook.
8. Timing Matters
If you can, plan your puppy’s arrival for a stretch when someone can be home consistently for a few weeks.
Potty training and early bonding demand a lot of attention. Having someone around makes everything go more smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
It varies, but most puppies get the hang of it within a few weeks to a few months with consistent routines. Frequent trips outside, praise for every success, and patience go a long way.
Young puppies can’t hold it for long and shouldn’t be alone for extended stretches early on. A good rough guide is roughly one hour per month of age, up to a limit — which is exactly why timing their arrival matters.
Both can be great when done right. A reputable breeder offers transparency and health clearances; a shelter or rescue lets you save a life and often gives real insight into the dog’s personality. Just avoid pet stores and backyard breeders.
More than the purchase price alone. Factor in food, vaccinations, microchipping, vet visits, supplies, and training. Budgeting for these up front prevents nasty surprises.
For most owners, it’s the sleep disruption and near-constant supervision. Puppies need attention, potty breaks, and training around the clock at first — but it gets easier fast with consistency.
It’s highly recommended. A crate gives your pup a safe, calm space of their own and makes potty training and house rules far easier to establish.
Sviatoslav Oleksiv founded The Pets and Love in 2019. A lifelong pet owner and Rhodesian Ridgeback enthusiast, he writes and edits our guides to help fellow pet parents give their animals the best care.
Every guide follows our editorial standards. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice — always consult a licensed veterinarian about your pet's health.