What To Do Next Checklist (After Week 1) — Dog / Puppy

Ryan Lapierre
2026-04-17T14:30:25-04:00

Week one with a new dog or puppy can feel like a whirlwind. This week-2 checklist helps you build a steady routine, start easy-win training, plan your vet visit, prevent boredom behaviors, and keep daily care simple and consistent.

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After Week-1 Checklist — Dog / Puppy

Week one is done. Now it’s about building a routine, preventing problem habits early, and making daily life easier.

1) Lock in a simple routine

Keep meals consistent (same times daily when possible)

Pick a predictable potty schedule (especially after sleep, play, and meals)

Add 1–2 short play/training blocks per day (5–10 minutes)

2) Confirm the vet plan

If you haven’t already: schedule the first wellness visit

Bring any records you have (vaccines, microchip, prior meds)

Ask about diet, healthy weight, parasite prevention, and dental basics

3) Upgrade the setup (only where it helps)

Add one improvement at a time so your dog doesn’t get overstimulated

Consider upgrades that reduce effort:

Easier feeding/water routine

A calmer rest area (bed/crate setup)

Better chew options (to protect furniture)

4) Train the “easy wins” (next 2 weeks)

Pick 1–2 focus skills: name response, sit, leash manners, crate comfort

Reward calm behavior (settling, quiet waiting)

Keep training short and end on a win

5) Gentle socialization (confidence building)

Introduce new sounds, people, surfaces, and short outings slowly

Keep it positive and low-pressure

If your dog seems stressed, back up and go slower

6) Prevent boredom (and problem behaviors)

Rotate toys instead of leaving everything out

Add enrichment:

Food puzzles / treat games

Sniff walks (mental exercise)

Chew time (supervised)

7) Set a cleaning + maintenance rhythm

Daily: quick cleanup of feeding area, check toys for damage

Weekly: wash bowls, wash bedding, refresh toys

Keep enzyme cleaner stocked (accidents happen during learning)

8) If you have other pets: keep introductions slow

Separate resources at first (food/water/rest areas)

Short, calm interactions only—end on a good note

9) Track what matters

Appetite + water intake

Bathroom habits (patterns help you adjust the schedule)

Energy level and sleep

Chewing/jumping/barking triggers (time + situation)

10) Know when to call the vet

If something feels off and it’s not improving, trust your gut and call.

Pro tip

After week one, consistency beats intensity. A steady routine + small daily training wins = a calmer dog and fewer headaches later.