What To Expect From Your Puppy In your puppy's early days, his entire world consisted of his nurturing mother and the comfort of his littermates.  At two to three weeks, when his eyes opened and his hearing developed, his world suddenly became much larger!  He learned to get up on his feet, and he started to wrestle and play with  his sisters and brothers.  Bit by bit, play and other interaction with his mother and siblings taught him important lessons about how to behave ("hey, stop biting my tail!")  His breeder was sure to provide loving interaction with people as well.  Staying with the breeder and his family group, and continuing to learn from them for at least eight weeks is crucial in helping your puppy develop a healthy, stable personality.  Between 8 weeks and four months of age, your puppy will go through a socialization period that will permanently shape his future personality and how he will react to his environment as an adult.  Exposing him to a large variety of people, places, and situations during this crucial time makes a huge difference.  Proper socialization can prevent a dog from being fearful of children, or of riding in a car.   There's a lot involved in giving him the care and attention he will require every day!  He needs nutritious food, lots of attention, positive training, safe toys, a comfortable and safe home, and proper veterinary care.  Your puppy will give unending love in return.  This vital first year of life is a fun and exciting time for both of you!  As he grows physically, the strong bond between you will also grow.  Understanding the needs of your puppy ahead of time will help you give him the right start, so he can become your healthy, happy companion for life! What You Need  You're going to need some basic supplies for your new puppy.  Here is a list of some of the things you will need, from necessary to optional: Wholesome, nutritious food Treats for positive reinforcement training Food and water dishes Crate (to be replaced by a bigger one as he grows) Puppy housetraining pads Bedding (at least 2 sets) Dog gate (s) Soft, adjustable collar (additional ones as he grows) At least one 4-6 foot leash, leather or webbing (a longer lead is useful for training) At least 5-6 safe chew toys Soft-bristle brush Brush and sturdy metal comb Gentle puppy shampoo Good quality nail trimmer