IKEA couldn’t prep you for this—dog parents know the thrill and chaos of pup-prepping

Subheadline: The joyful chaos, sniff tests, and tail-wag logistics of bringing home a new pup

Keyword focus: new puppy, preparing for a puppy, bringing a dog home

You brought home an IKEA play tunnel for a cat, but now there's a crate, three beds (yes, three), an animal-shaped night light, and you’re Googling: "do dogs dream about us?" Welcome to the wild but heart-swoony ride of pup-prepping. Trust me—I’m a Rottweiler, and I saw it all when I moved in... and took over. 🐾

Step One: Set up the Fortress of Comfy-Tude

Before your new floofball steps paw inside, things gotta be right. And by right, I mean nap-worthy. The hooman word is cozy, but down here at paw-level, it’s about soft spots, temp control, and view access (we like seeing squirrels... I mean guests).

• Crate Cave: We need a den. It’s not punishment, it’s personal space. Go for one that's snug, not prison-like. Think "glamping" not "cold storage."
• Bed Basics: Layered bedding = instant tail wags. A cushion, a throw, maybe one of those fluffy mats that look like a sleepy cloud. Bonus points if it smells like you.
• No-Go Zones: Tech cords, houseplants named ‘toxic’, and your fancy shoes. Put them up high or risk the chewy consequences.

“Hoomans, if you wouldn't nap there, don’t expect us to. We have standards too.” — Thor

Step Two: Bring the Basics, But Make Them Sniff-Worthy

You don’t need every toy and treat aisle, but you do need the right stuff. If it squeaks, rolls, or smells like chicken liver—it’s probably dog-approved. Pack smart, not just pretty.

• Food & Bowls: Slow feeders = genius. We inhale, and these help us not... explode. True story.
• Collar & ID Tag: Tag should have our name, your number, and no jokes unless they’re hilarious.
• Leash & Harness: Start with something basic, secure, and comfy. We’re not trying out for Dog Ninja Warrior—yet.

Used to take three shops and two trolley tantrums—now one list does it all. You're welcome.

Step Three: Prepare Your Heart (and Carpet)

Day one isn’t going to feel perfect. It’ll feel messy, chewy, and like someone pooped behind the couch. (Someone probably did.) Expect wobbles with collar fittings, accidental puddles, and the occasional crate protest that sounds like you adopted a baby T-Rex.

But here’s the squishy centre: That little furball doesn’t need perfection. Just patience, love—and consistent door breaks. You'll both learn together, and one day you’ll look down and realise there’s a furry best mate curled up at your feet during your fifth Zoom meeting of the day. That’s when you’ll feel it: the start of real dog life magic.

Step Four: Build the Bond—One Walk at a Time

Zoomies improve emotional connection. Fact. But it’s not just about tiring out the pup—it’s about building routine, trust, and sniff territories (ours, not yours—stop smelling bushes).

• Short Walks: Start slow. Let us sniff. We’re new to this block too.
• Treat Bag: Yes, this is shameless manipulation. Yes, it totally works.
• Use Your Voice: Not just for commands. Throw in praise, happy tones, the occasional song if you must. We love hearing from our hoomans—especially when there’s bacon involved.

Old plan: wing it. New plan: walk it—daily, calmly, and with enough pockets for chicken snacks.

Step Five: Trust Your Instincts—and Theirs

The bedtime pacing, the startled bark at a ceiling fan, the way they disappear under the bed during a thunderstorm—yep, all normal. Dogs aren’t robots (not yet, anyway), and every mate needs time to adjust. Trust the process, and trust you're doing a better job than you think.

“Hoomans, if you can love a sock-shredding goofball covered in dirt—you’re ready for anything.” — Thor

You’re Not Just Getting a Dog—You’re Growing a Whole New Rhythm

It won't be perfect, and it won’t always be tidy—but it will be real. Honest, heart-filled, tail-in-your-face joy. That’s what pup-prepping is about. Fluffing beds and hiding cords is helpful. But real prep? That’s the emotional kind. The type where you greet the unexpected with a belly rub and a deep breath.

And one day, late at night when the house is quiet and there’s soft snoring at your feet, you’ll realise: you didn’t just get a dog.

You built a pack.

Big licks and tail wags,

Thor 🐾

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