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Bringing home your German Shepherd puppy? Here's what to expect the first week, plus tips from Christian’s Guardian Shepherds on routine, bonding, and transitions.

🏡 A New Beginning

The first week home with your new German Shepherd puppy is exciting, sweet, and let’s be honest—just a little overwhelming. At Christian’s Guardian Shepherds, we do everything we can to give your puppy the best start, but now it's your turn to continue that journey at home.

What to Expect During the First Week with Your German Shepherd Puppy

The first week with your German Shepherd puppy is a crucial time for bonding and setting routines. Here’s a day-by-day look at what you can expect—and how to help your puppy adjust with confidence and love.

🐶 Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions

What to Expect: Your puppy may be quiet, nervous, or overly excited. This is their first time away from mom and littermates.

Tips:

• Keep the home calm and quiet.

• Introduce them to their crate and sleeping area.

• Limit guests or major stimulation.

• Stick to the feeding schedule provided by your breeder.

📅 Days 2–3: Settling In

What to Expect: Your puppy starts to explore more, test boundaries, and possibly whine at night.

Tips:

• Begin establishing a consistent routine (feeding, potty, crate).

• Use gentle, consistent corrections and lots of praise.

• Introduce basic commands like "sit" and "come."

• Keep potty breaks frequent (every 1–2 hours while awake).

🐾 Days 4–5: Building Trust & Routine

What to Expect: Your puppy starts bonding deeply with you. You may notice bursts of energy and curiosity, along with some mischief.

Tips:

• Begin short leash training walks in your yard.

• Reinforce positive behaviors through rewards.

• Begin socialization with safe, vaccinated dogs or calm family members.

• Keep training sessions short (3–5 minutes).

🧸 Days 6–7: Growing Confidence

What to Expect: Your puppy is becoming more comfortable, confident, and playful—and may start testing limits more assertively.

Tips:

• Reinforce crate time, independence, and calm behavior.

• Continue structured playtime and basic obedience.

• Keep social experiences positive and brief.

• Expect minor accidents or regressions—these are normal.

🛏️ Crate Training Tips for Week One

• Use the crate for naps, bedtime, and brief breaks.

• Never use the crate for punishment.

• Keep crate sessions positive with treats or toys.

• Let them rest undisturbed—puppies need 18–20 hours of sleep a day!

🥣 Feeding & Potty Routine

Your breeder should provide a feeding schedule—stick to it closely this first week. German Shepherd puppies thrive on predictability!

• Feed 3–4 times a day.

• Potty 10–15 minutes after meals or waking up.

• Praise immediately when they go outside.

🩺 When to Contact Your Vet

Our puppies go home with all their vaccines up to date according to our carefully planned schedule. Please follow the vaccination timeline we provide to avoid unnecessary shots.

We recommend scheduling your puppy’s first wellness check within 12 hours after going home to ensure a smooth transition and to address any immediate concerns.

If your puppy shows signs of illness—such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite—please contact your veterinarian right away.

🤝 We’re with You—For Life

At Christian’s Guardian Shepherds, our commitment doesn’t end when your puppy leaves our home—it’s just beginning. We are here for the entire lifetime of your dog, ready to offer advice, encouragement, and a listening ear when you need it most.

Whether you're feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or just have a quick question—we want to hear from you. Please don’t hesitate to reach out. No concern is too small. Raising a German Shepherd is a beautiful journey, and you’re never in it alone.

With care and commitment, 

Kodie & Joann

Christians Guardian Shepherds