Your 8 week old puppy
The first week with a new puppy will be exciting – and exhausting. If you’re a first time dog owner, then this will be as new to you as it is your puppy. Here’s what to expect with your 8-week-old puppy
Things to do this week:
First vaccinations
Your puppy will need to have their first round of injections to protect them from nasty diseases – if your puppy hasn’t already had their injections, this will need to be done when you take your puppy to their first appointment with the vet. This should be done within the first week of getting your puppy.
Toilet training
Start toilet training your puppy straight away – be prepared for accidents. Your 8 week puppy has a tiny bladder and will need to pee lots! This can be every few minutes when they are active and as soon as they wake up from a sleep. Keep a close eye on your puppy and you’ll soon learn to spot the signs that they need to go to the toilet.
Get some tips: We asked our community of dog owners who have been through the puppy toilet training experience to share their toilet training tips.
Crate training
If you are going to be using a crate for your puppy, start getting them used to it straight away so it soon becomes their safe go-to place for a relaxing rest.
Common questions you may ask this week:
My 8 week old puppy is crying at night
Your puppy has been used to living with their mum, brothers and sisters until now. They will need lots of love and reassurance while they get used to their new home.
How much should an 8 week old puppy sleep?
Just like babies, young puppies need lots of sleep, but won’t yet sleep through the night. Be prepared for sleepless nights in the first few weeks. There are things you can do to help your puppy to sleep.
My 8 week old puppy has diarrhoea
For an 8 week old puppy diarrhoea can be unpleasant. This may be due to the stress of moving to a new home or a change in diet. It’s best to stick to the food that your puppy has been used to and make changes gradually. If your puppy has very bad diarrhoea or you see signs of blood, this could be a sign of something more serious and you should take them to the vet.
Can you take an 8 week old puppy outside?
When a puppy can go outside will depend on whether you have a garden. Your puppy will need to be fully vaccinated before they can go out for a walk beyond the garden. However, if you would like to take them beyond the garden before they are fully vaccinated, you should carry them or use a pet carrier.
Find the Perfect Puppy Class Near You
Discover small, friendly classes across the UK led by our expert, professional Puppy School Tutors. Get hands-on advice and support, to ensure your puppy gets the best start with positive, reward-based training.
Find a Puppy Class Today
Testimonials
What Clients say
about Puppy School
-
“This course was fantastic. Jenny the trainer has a wealth of knowledge. Extremely approachable, and gave sound advice to our queries. She really knows her stuff. The groups size was just perfect, which meant each pup was not overwhelmed. I would recommend the course and definitely recommend Jenny. She was brilliant.”— June
-
“Storm really enjoyed coming to puppy class each week and we have all learnt so much together! Yvonne was very informative and so friendly and welcoming and a great teacher! The whole experience from start to finish was very positive and highly would recommend to anybody to join the classes as you gain so much from them! We will most definitely be coming back for super pups classes when they start! Thank you so much for everything! :) ”— Mark
-
“Pen's guidance helped us feel more confident with our first puppy, and he's learned so much more than we thought he'd have at this stage. I couldn't recommend it enough.”— Louise
-
“Claire, is so knowledgeable, patient and very helpful. Amber and I thoroughly enjoyed the six week course. It has certainly helped Amber to understand simple commands. Even though I have owned dogs before, Claire has taught me a lot too. A big thank you Claire. ”— Thomas
-
“The whole family really enjoyed the puppy course. Elin was a brilliant instructor, extremely knowledgeable, helpful, welcoming and easy to understand. We have learnt a lot and thoroughly enjoyed the course. Thank you!”— Sam