Comfort- Socializing- Potty Training
Everyone is very excited the first few days, but don't over handle your puppy. Let them get lots of rest and naps between play times, and plenty of clean water and food. Dogs, like people live in groups and conform to the behaviors which are allowed and/or suit their needs. It is up to the owner to be the "Alpha dog" or group leader and teach your dog what is and isn't acceptable. Please note, that puppies are as fragile as human babies! You must not harshly correct your puppy the first few months that you have them. Redirect any unwanted behaviors and don't scream or physically correct your puppy. They must learn to love and completely trust you before you can really train them well. Puppies have high metabolism, tiny bladders and brains that can't easily make the connection between where exactly to potty and when. BE PATIENT. THEY WILL LEARN WITH CONSISTENCY AND PATIENCE
Make a schedule for your dog's bathroom breaks and stick with it. The key to potty training is not to have accidents happen in the first place, and taking your dog out regularly can help with that. Even if your dog does not ask to go outside, take them out and praise them like crazy if they use the bathroom outside.
Praise, praise praise. When your puppy goes potty outside/on pad be sure to PRAISE it! When you call your puppy, use a "happy" voice and praise it! Never call a puppy and then punish it. Punishing a puppy when it comes to you will only teach them that being with you means fear or pain.
Play with your dog EVERYDAY. Walks, fetch, tug of war. Daily attention will help stave off bad habits.
Do's and Don'ts
Don't scare or spank your new puppy. Make sure it has completely bonded with you and is very brave in it's new environment before you ever try correct unwanted behavior. The only exception is if your puppy nips, chews hard on or bites a person, you can do an immediate lip pinch, similar to the mother dogs nips and say "no". Biting or nipping a person is the only time you should strongly correct a puppy. Be sure to then give the pup an acceptable alternative like a rawhide or toy that it can chew on.