There’s nothing quite like the moment you bring home a tiny, wiggly puppy—a bundle of fur, curiosity, and endless possibilities. Those soulful eyes and playful antics make it tempting to dive right into training, especially if you’ve got a working breed bursting with potential. But hold off on the training plans for now. The very first step to a happy life with your new best friend isn’t teaching commands—it’s building a bond. Trust us, this is the foundation that will make all future training a breeze.

When we brought home our Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Rusty, we faced a 20-hour road trip to pick him up. At first, we thought, “Why not just fly him to us?” But looking back, that long drive was a gift. It was just us -our family, and Rusty - no distractions, no to-do lists. By the time we pulled into our driveway, Rusty wasn’t whimpering for his littermates; he was already part of our pack. That uninterrupted time helped us connect in a way we hadn’t with puppies we’d brought home locally in the past. With those pups, life’s busyness—dinner prep, phone notifications, chores—crept in and stole precious bonding moments.

The good news? You don’t need a cross-country road trip to create that magic connection with your puppy. Here’s how to make those first days at home all about bonding:

• Set up a cozy, quiet space. Pick a calm room where your puppy can explore without overstimulation. Sit on the floor, let them sniff around, and just be present. This is their chance to get to know their new world—and you.

• Play together. Grab a soft toy and engage in gentle play. It’s not about teaching “fetch” yet; it’s about sharing joy and building trust.

• Snuggle close. Let your puppy nap near you or curl up in your lap. Physical closeness helps them feel safe in their new home.

• Keep it low-key. Resist the urge to invite friends over or show off your adorable new family member. These early moments are for you and your pup to connect.

If you’re welcoming a puppy straight from a busy day at work, don’t worry. Even a couple of hours each morning and evening dedicated to bonding can work wonders. Just put the phone on silent, pause the Netflix queue, and focus on your furry friend.

A quick note: skip training for now, especially if your puppy is around 8 weeks old. Their little bladders and brains need time to adjust. If accidents happen indoors, don’t stress—gently take them outside, clean up, and move on. Housebreaking can wait a week or two until they’re settled (stay tuned for our next post on housebreaking tips!).

By prioritizing bonding, you’re not just creating warm fuzzies—you’re laying the groundwork for a loyal, confident companion. So, take a deep breath, soak in those puppy cuddles, and enjoy this special time. Your future training sessions will thank you.