Bringing your Cavoodle puppy home on the Gold Coast is exciting, emotional, and a little overwhelming. For you and for them.
Your puppy has just left their mum, their littermates, and the only environment they’ve ever known. Everything is new. New smells, new sounds, new people, and a new routine. The first 24 hours matter because they set the tone for how safe and settled your puppy feels in their new home.
In one of our most watched videos, we sum it up simply:
“Start with the routine that you want to continue with, and remember a tired puppy is a happy puppy.”
Here’s how to put that into practice, especially for Gold Coast families.
Start With the Routine You Want Long Term
Dogs thrive on routine, and puppies learn it faster than most people expect.
In the video, we explain:
“If you want your dog to sleep in the laundry, in a pen, or on your deck, do that from the first night you get them home. Dogs really love routine, so they’ll learn it as soon as you implement it.”
This is especially important on the Gold Coast, where homes often have outdoor areas, decks, and open living spaces. Decide early where your puppy will sleep and rest, then stick to it. Changing the rules after a few nights can confuse them and make settling harder.
Your puppy may seem unsettled at first. That’s normal.
“They’ve just left their mum, their siblings, and the environment they know, so they might be stressed, overwhelmed, or a little withdrawn.”
Consistency helps them relax. Once your puppy understands your routine, they settle faster and feel safer.
Keep the First Day Calm and Low Key
It’s tempting to introduce your new puppy to everyone straight away, especially if friends and family are excited. Try to resist that urge.
Limit their world to one small, safe area of your home. Let them explore at their own pace. On the Gold Coast, that might mean keeping doors closed to busy outdoor spaces for the first day, especially if there’s traffic noise, neighbours, or other pets nearby.
Quiet time builds confidence.
Mental Stimulation Matters More Than Physical Exercise
This is one of the most important points from the video.
“A Cavoodle is not a high-energy dog that needs to be worn out physically, but mental stimulation is really important to their wellbeing.”
Short, gentle interactions are perfect on day one. Talk to them, let them sniff new toys, offer simple games, or introduce very basic reward-based learning. Even a few minutes of engagement helps them feel connected and settled.
This is particularly useful after a car trip home to the Gold Coast, which can be tiring in itself.
A Tired Puppy Is a Happy Puppy
Mental stimulation leads to rest, and rest is critical.
“The more stimulation they get while they’re awake, the better they’re going to sleep. And when the puppy is asleep, you really need to let them be.”
Puppies need a lot of sleep, often up to 18 to 20 hours a day. Let them nap. Avoid waking them for cuddles or play. Rest is how they process everything new they’re experiencing.
Set Up a Safe Sleeping Space
Have your puppy’s crate or pen ready before they arrive home. This should be somewhere quiet but not isolated. Add a soft bed, a blanket with familiar scent, and a couple of gentle toys.
At night, your puppy may cry or whimper. This is normal. They are adjusting to sleeping without their littermates for the first time. Stay calm, stick to your routine, and reassure them quietly if needed.
Food, Water, and Toilet Training
Keep your puppy on the same food they’ve been eating with us for the first few weeks. Sudden changes can upset little tummies.
Offer small meals, fresh water, and regular toilet breaks. Take them to the same toilet area each time and praise them gently when they get it right. Accidents are normal and part of learning.
Gentle Bonding Builds Trust
You are now your puppy’s safe person.
Sit with them, talk softly, and offer gentle pats. Let them come to you rather than forcing interaction. Bonding in the first 24 hours is about trust, not excitement.
Final Thought for Gold Coast Families
The first 24 hours are not about doing everything perfectly. They’re about consistency, calm, and reassurance. Start the routine you want to keep, provide gentle mental stimulation, and allow plenty of rest so your puppy can settle with confidence.
If you’re based on the Gold Coast and preparing to bring a Cavoodle puppy home, we’ve created a dedicated page with details on our puppies, delivery options, and ongoing support for local families. You can learn more here:
https://waterhillcavoodles.com.au/cavoodle-puppies-gold-coast/
For additional general guidance on helping a new puppy settle in, the American Kennel Club also has a helpful resource here:
https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/bringing-home-your-new-puppy/
Gold Coast Puppy FAQs
How long does it take a Cavoodle puppy to settle into a new home?
Most Cavoodle puppies start to relax within a few days, but the first 24 hours are key. A calm routine and gentle reassurance help them settle faster.
Should I let my Cavoodle puppy sleep with me on the first night?
It’s best to start the sleeping arrangement you want long term from the first night. Puppies adjust quickly when routines are consistent.
How much sleep does a Cavoodle puppy need in the first week?
Cavoodle puppies usually need 18 to 20 hours of sleep per day. Plenty of rest helps them process new experiences and settle calmly.
How soon should I start training my Cavoodle puppy?
Training starts from day one through routine, gentle guidance, and positive reinforcement. Keep sessions short and focused on building confidence.
Is the Gold Coast climate hard on Cavoodle puppies?
Cavoodles adapt well to the Gold Coast climate, but young puppies should have shade, fresh water, and quiet indoor rest during warmer parts of the day.