Dog First Week Home Checklist

Day-by-day settle-in tasks so the first week feels calm instead of chaotic. Written for dog owners, free to print or use on your phone.

Tap an item to check it off — progress saves on this device. For paper, print at 100% scale (not “fit to page”).

Download printable PDF See other checklists

Pet's name

Date home

0 of 15 done — checked items are saved on this device only.

Before they arrive

Set up a crate or designated sleep space in a quiet corner
Pick up food and water bowls and place them in one steady spot
Buy a few days of their current food to avoid a sudden diet change
Set a house rule list with everyone in the household (furniture, feeding, doors)

Day 1

Keep the first car ride and arrival calm and low-key
Show them the water bowl and a quiet resting spot right away
Take them out to the same potty spot often, and praise calmly when they go
Skip the welcome party — let visitors wait a few days

Days 2–3

Start a simple feeding and potty schedule and stick to it
Begin short, positive name and hand-target training sessions
Note any sniffing, hiding, or clinginess — settling in looks different for every dog

Days 4–7

Introduce one new person or short outing at a time
Book their first vet visit if it isn't already scheduled
Start loose-leash walks in a quiet area before busier streets
Begin crate or alone-time practice in very short sessions

Hope this makes the first week a little easier. Hosting and running this site costs money. If the checklist helped, a small tip, any amount, helps keep it free: buy me a coffee.

Tip:$1 $2 $5 Custom

Each button opens Buy Me a Coffee in a new tab. Choose any amount there.

Once the first week is behind you

Weights, vet visits, medications, and questions for the next appointment all live in Your Pet's Health Log — the free companion site, no account needed.

Open the free health log

More free dog checklists

Dog Supply Shopping List
Dog First Vet Visit Prep
Dog Home Safety Checklist

Tracking their health next? Your Pet’s Health Log is a free fill-in pet health log.

Not veterinary advice. These checklists are general starting points. For diet, medication or any health worry, ask a vet who works with your pet’s species. If something seems urgent, contact a vet right away.

Welcome Home — free checklists for the first days with a new pet.

Health log About Contact Accessibility Privacy Terms Buy me a coffee (optional)