Bringing your new Waterhill Cavoodle home is one of life’s happiest moments — but for your little one, it’s also a big change! Everything smells, sounds, and looks different, and they’ve just left the comfort of their mum and littermates. The first 24 hours are about creating calm, comfort, and connection. Here’s how to make that transition as smooth as possible.
1. Keep Things Calm and Quiet
When you first arrive home, resist the urge to introduce your puppy to every family member, friend, and neighbour straight away. For the first day, keep your home environment calm and peaceful.
Let your puppy explore one small, safe area in your house— like the living room or kitchen — and allow them to sniff around at their own pace.
Tip: Avoid loud noises, running children, or other pets crowding them. You’ll have plenty of time for play once they feel settled and confident.
2. Show Them Their “Safe Place”
Set up your puppy’s crate or pen before they arrive. This is their safe zone — somewhere quiet where they can rest and retreat.
Add a soft bed, a blanket with their litter scent, and a few gentle toys. Keep this space in a family area so your pup feels included, not isolated.
Goal for day one: Let them learn where to rest, drink, and toilet. That’s all!
️ 3. Stick to Familiar Food and Routine
Keep your puppy on the same diet they’ve been having at Waterhill for at least the first 4 weeks. Sudden food changes can upset little tummies. We recommend leaving puppy kibble in an area they can get to at all times and ensure fresh water is always available.
Puppies have tiny tummies and can’t eat large meals yet, so it’s best to feed two or three small meals a day, evenly spaced throughout the day. This keeps their energy steady and prevents blood sugar dips.
4. Expect Extra Sleep (and a Few Whimpers)
Puppies need 18–20 hours of sleep per day. After all the excitement of travel and new smells, they’ll tire easily.
It’s completely normal for them to whimper or cry a little at bedtime — they’re adjusting to sleeping without their littermates.
Tip: Try a warm (not hot) heat pack wrapped in a towel and a soft toy beside them. The gentle warmth and pressure can mimic their littermates and help them feel safe.
5. Begin Toilet Training Gently
Take your puppy to their designated toilet area as soon as you arrive home, and again after meals, naps, and play. Praise them gently when they go in the right spot — positive reinforcement works wonders.
Accidents are normal! Never punish; just clean up calmly and guide them next time.
6. Shower Them With Gentle Affection
Your puppy is learning that you are their new “safe person.” Sit quietly with them, talk softly, and offer gentle pats. They’ll soon start following you everywhere — the best part of having a cavoodle! For now, the focus should be on bonding, trust, and building confidence in their new world.
Final Thought
The first 24 hours set the tone for your lifelong bond. Keep it calm, predictable, and full of reassurance, and you’ll help your puppy feel safe and loved from day one.
At Waterhill Cavoodles, we’re always here to guide you through every step of your puppy’s journey — from the first cuddle to their first birthday and beyond.