First and foremost, it’s essential to remove any possible dangers from your home so your new companion enters a safe and inviting environment. It’s worth paying particular attention to electrical wires, small choke hazards, poisonous plants and access to human food.

Puppies can find moving stressful and sometimes suffer from separation anxiety, so it’s a good idea to create a cosy, comfortable space for them to retreat to. A crate or basket to snuggle up in with soft blankets and bedding is perfect. If you’ll have Puppy-prohibited areas in your home, consider installing a baby gate to keep them in the designated dog zone.

You want your puppy dog to grow up strong and healthy, so it’s vital to feed them with high-quality food specifically designed for growing dogs. Your breeder or veterinarian should be able to recommend a reputable brand. The RSPCA suggests a feeding regime of four small meals a day for four months to avoid overstretching little puppy stomachs. To help your pup know where to go at mealtimes, you could create a feeding station for your puppy with stainless steel food and water bowls.

As many foods are toxic for dogs, from chocolate to avocado, it’s also important to do your research so you know what not to feed your puppy.

Puppies love to play, and they have a natural urge to bite and chew, particularly during their teething stage. You can help teach them right from wrong and keep them from using your favourite shoes as a chew toy by providing them with alternative activities like games or reward treats.

House training is one of the more challenging aspects of being a puppy owner and patience is key. Letting your puppy outside at regular intervals, leading them to a designated potty spot and showering them with praise every time they go there will soon help them get the right idea.

To avoid any future behavioural problems and ensure they grow into happy and confident dogs, it’s necessary to get your puppy used to the sights, sounds and smells of environments outside of your household. Initially, you can carry your puppy around outside but only allow them to socialise with vaccinated dogs. Once they are fully vaccinated, they can explore the world on foot. A good lead and collar with identification tags is vital from this point on.

Most dogs love jumping into rivers, going on muddy walks and getting as smelly as possible, so getting your puppy used to a grooming regime early on is a good idea for the both of you. All you need is a dog brush suited to your puppy’s coat. Grooming is also an ideal time for bonding and to check your puppy for any health issues so you can get them treated as soon as possible.

Now you are all clued up on how to care for a dog, why not take the time to stock up on much-needed puppy essentials at Gumtree?