 On arrival home with a new dog or puppy it should be taken taken to the garden to relieve itself, unless strange dogs have had access to the garden in which case a puppy will need a "clean" spot where it can relieve itself until its first course of vaccinations have been completed. This could be some sheets of newspaper or puppy training pads placed by the door to the garden. When a puppy does relieve itself it should be praised as this is the first step to toilet training.
The dog or puppy should then be allowed to quietly investigate the home and members of the family. The temptation to fuss and "over crowd" the dog or puppy should be avoided, instead let it investigate and introduce itself at its own pace so that it can build up its confidence in its new environment. Remember this is a stressful time for a new puppy or dog - they have been taken away from familiar surroundings and moved to a new house with a new family and patience is needed.
If the dog is wary of approaching other members of the family a toy or treat should prompt them to investigate each member individually.
The dog or puppy should be introduced to other pets cautiously as older pets may resent the new addition or may harm the new dog, particularly a puppy with rough play unintentionally. With cats it is a good idea to trim the front claws before introducing them to a new puppy. It is best to supervise socialising with other pets for at least the first week. | 
