🏡 How to Prepare for Your Puppy’s First Day Home

Bringing Home Your Mini Aussie – Part 3

Published by Mini Aussie Collective

Your puppy is coming home—and everything’s about to change (in the best way possible). 🐾

Mini Aussies are smart, sensitive, and full of energy. Preparing your space before they arrive helps set the stage for a smooth transition, faster potty training, and a confident, happy pup.

🛠 Step 1: Puppy-Proof the House

Think of your new puppy like a crawling toddler with sharp teeth. Remove or secure anything that could be dangerous, tempting, or expensive to replace.

🔒 Remove or block off:

• Electrical cords

• Houseplants (many are toxic!)

• Shoes, socks, kids’ toys

• Trash cans, laundry baskets

🧼 Get down to puppy-eye level and check for:

• Small chewable items

• Sharp edges

• Gaps behind furniture or appliances

Bonus tip: Use baby gates to close off rooms and create a defined “puppy zone.”

Mini Australian Shepherd puppy exploring a puppy-proofed room, with a baby gate and toy basket

🛏 Step 2: Create a Calm “Puppy Zone”

Set up a space where your puppy can feel safe and get used to their new environment.

🐶 Include:

• A crate (cozy and secure)

• A bed or soft blanket

• A couple of toys

• A water bowl

• A potty area (puppy pads or turf, if needed)

Keep this area consistent for the first week or two so your puppy can learn the routine.

Puppy zone setup, cozy crate with blanket and toy, water bowl nearby

🧃 Step 3: Feeding Prep

✔ Use the same food your breeder was using (at least for the first week)

✔ Have clean bowls for food and water

✔ Feed in the same spot every day

✔ Keep a regular schedule—Mini Aussies thrive on routine

Thinking of switching foods? Wait until your puppy is settled and transition slowly over 7–10 days.

Purina Pro Plan Sport Performance All Life Stages High-Protein 30/20

🚽 Step 4: Potty Training Station

Choose your potty area before your puppy comes home.

• If outdoors, guide them to the same spot each time.

• For apartments or indoor living, use pee pads or artificial turf.

• Take them out immediately after sleeping, eating, or playing.

• Keep treats nearby to reward success on the spot.

Praise works wonders with this breed!

Mini Australian Shepherd puppy going potty at designated potty spot, owner with treat ready giving praise

🧸 Step 5: Have Toys and Chews Ready

Stock up on:

• Soft plush toys (for cuddling)

• Rubber or nylon chews (for teething)

• Simple interactive toys (like a treat ball)

👉 Don’t overwhelm them—2 or 3 toys at a time is plenty. Rotate weekly to keep things interesting.

Mini Australian Shepherd puppy with chew toys

📅 Bonus: Sample First-Day Schedule

7:00 AM – Wake up + potty

7:30 AM – Breakfast

8:00 AM – Explore puppy zone + gentle play

9:00 AM – Crate time for rest

12:00 PM – Potty + lunch + short play

1:00 PM – Nap

3:00 PM – Potty + social time

6:00 PM – Dinner

8:00 PM – Calm time + final potty

9:00 PM – Bedtime crate + quiet

🐾 Remember—puppies sleep up to 18–20 hours a day! Don’t stress if they conk out mid-play.

➡ Start from the Beginning:

What to Bring for Your Puppy’s Car Ride Home →

How to Crate Train Your Mini Aussie Puppy →