The long-awaited day has arrived: you finally get to bring your new best friend home. There’s so much excitement that you may either have a million thoughts at once or just one primary focus. Either way, there’s a lingering question: Do I have everything ready? Here are 10 tips to care for the latest (and cutest) addition to your family.

1. Get Ready at Home

Dog proof your space. Keep items that are toxic to dogs out of their reach such as cleaning supplies and certain foods, along with items with personal value such as delicates and keys. Keep in mind that you should have an area that’s designated for your dog with a food bowl, water bowl, and doggy bed. A bin for their toys is a convenient way to keep them organized rather than scattered around the house as well.

2. Make a Vet Visit

Within your first few weeks or days with your new dog, set time aside to check in at the vet. They can help by providing a standard check-up, determine which vaccinations are needed, talk with you about parasite prevention, and get your dog microchipped.

3. Run a Routine

Dogs love routines. To keep them happy and get them adjusted, set designated times for feeding, walking, and bathroom breaks. This gives them a feeling of safety and gives you an easier time house-training them.

4. Buy Quality Supplies

Have the right supplies for your pet, such as a collar, an ID tag, a leash, bowls for food and water, a cozy bed, and toys that they love playing with. Chew toys are extra necessary for puppies.

5. Start Training Soon

The earlier you train your pup, the better. Work on the basics like “sit”, “stay”, “come”, and “leave/drop it.” Use positive reinforcement such as treats and praise to encourage them to keep going.

6. Have Potty Training Patience

Your dog may need some time to grasp potty training, so keep it consistent and remain understanding. Use some positive reinforcement for this type of training as well. Once your dog associates going outside with a reward, you can feel at ease knowing your floors won’t be their go-to spot.

7. Let Them Socialize

Expose your dog to social settings early on, such as neighbors and their pets, dog parks, and any other settings where there are other people involved. This helps them get adjusted to those environments and learn how to behave in them.

8. Encourage Exercise

Physical health is very important for your dog, and exercise needs vary depending on breeds. Keep your dog active to remain healthy and release energy. Methods of doing this could be taking them out on walks, playing in the backyard, or a game of fetch.

9. Keep Them Healthy

Another crucial factor for your dog’s physical health is their nutrition. Feed your dog high-quality food that is fit for their traits such as age, size, and activity level. If you’re not sure about what that would be, don’t sweat it! A vet would be happy to help you figure that out.

10. Check Their Teeth

While exercise and nutrition are two of the most known forms of physical health, it’s equally as important to check on their dental health. Keep dental treats on deck to prevent plaque and tartar formation. Plaque and tartar can lead to dental diseases that make it painful for your dog to eat and chew.

Remember, this is the start of a new chapter for both you and your dog, so it may take some time for you two to adjust. Stay patient and understanding — you’ll have a new best friend and an unbreakable bond in no time.