House Rules for Your New Puppy: Setting Boundaries from Day One
Welcoming a new puppy into your home is a very exciting moment in our lives. Sometimes in all the excitement we forget about important aspects of bringing new dog home: setting rules for all family members. Just like kids, puppies need structure, boundaries, and consistency to feel secure and thrive. That’s why one of the first things every new dog owner should do is decide on house rules.
These early decisions - make before the dog sets a foot in our home - help you avoid confusion, accidents, and misunderstandings.
So, where should you start and what house rules should we think about before our dog arrives home?
1. Decide Where the Puppy Is Allowed to Go
Before those curious little paws explore every corner of your home, decide on the areas that are off-limits. Will you allow your puppy in the bedroom? The kitchen? Upstairs? Garage?
Consider using:
- baby gates,
- playpens,
- closed doors.
Limiting access not only helps with training - it also keeps your puppy safe from hazards like stairs, chewing cords or hazardous substances. Check out tips for dog proofing your home for more.
2. Set the Rules About Furniture
One of the most debated questions: Is your puppy allowed on the furniture?
Some people love snuggling on the couch with their dog, while others want to keep fur and paws off the upholstery. Decide early and be consistent. Mixed signals will confuse your pup and make training harder.
Ask yourself:
- Couch or no couch?
- Bedtime cuddles allowed or not?
- Do the rules change when guests are over? (Pro tip: They shouldn't!)
3. Where will your puppy sleep at night?
- In a crate?
- In a dog bed in your room?
- In bed with a family member?
Dogs feel safer with a consistent sleeping space. Crate training is often recommended for teaching your pup to be calm and independent. It also gives them their own safe space if done right.
At Wiggly Tails we love snuggling with our dachshunds during the night but we also use crates during the day if we are away or if there's maintenance in our appartement. Routine and consistent rules help our sausages understand what is going on.
4. Assign Responsibilities: Who Does What?
Dog care is a team effort, but it helps to be clear on who’s responsible for what. Sit down as a family and decide:
- Who feeds the puppy (and when)?
- Who handles daily walks?
- Who’s in charge of training?
- Who takes care of clean up duty?
Sharing the workload prevents burnout and sharing it among all family members teaches kids responsibility.
When it comes to training, it should be equally shared among family members. This way your dog doesn't respect one person's commands and ignores other's.
5. Agree on Training Commands and Rules
Training is most effective when everyone is using the same language. Whether you’re teaching “sit,” “stay,” or “off,” make sure the commands are consistent across the board.
Also decide:
- What’s considered bad behavior (e.g. jumping)?
- How will you correct or redirect it?
- Will you use treats, clicker training, or another method?
Consistency is key to helping your puppy learn quickly and confidently.
6. Discuss Treats and Table Scraps
Food is a big part of training and bonding with your dog, but it can also become a source of begging. Talk as a family about:
- Whether or not the puppy is allowed table scraps (personally I would advise against that)
- When treats should be given
- What kinds of treats are okay
Keep It Clear and Consistent
Once your rules are set, you can write them down and hang them somewhere visible so everyone in the household is on the same page. Remember, your puppy isn’t trying to be naughty - they’re learning! Clear, consistent rules will make that learning process much smoother.
And most importantly: be patient, have fun, and enjoy every moment with your new best friend.