Bringing Home a Jack Russell Puppy: What to Do Before and On Day One

Before Your Jack Russell Puppy Arrives

Think of this as prepping for a very cute (and very curious) houseguest who has zero impulse control. Here’s what to do:

1. Puppy-Proof Everything

Your new pup will explore the world with their nose… and their teeth. Anything within reach is fair game.

• Hide electrical cords

• Secure trash bins (aka “forbidden snack boxes”)

• Store shoes, socks, and anything remotely chewable

• Block off no-go zones with baby gates

Anything on the floor = potential chew toy

2. Create a Puppy Zone

Set up a cozy, safe area where your puppy can relax, nap, and adjust to their new home.

• Include a crate or soft bed

• Add a few safe toys

• Make it a quiet, calm space away from high foot traffic

• Bonus: Place a worn t-shirt with your scent for comfort

Think of it as their personal puppy studio apartment.

3. Stock Up on Puppy Essentials

Here’s your Jack Russell starter kit:

• Crate & bed

• Food and water bowls

• Puppy food (ask the breeder or shelter what they're currently eating. Your vet may then suggest slowly switching to something different. This is normal.)

• Chew toys (save your furniture!)

• Puppy pads or outdoor potty plan

• Gentle puppy shampoo

• Collar, leash, and ID tag

• Vet contact info and vaccine records

Pro tip: Don’t forget a lint roller. You’ll thank us later.

4. Schedule a Vet Visit

Book that first checkup within the first few days home. This is important to:

• Establish care

• Set up a vaccine schedule

• Ask any puppy-care questions

• Brag about how cute your puppy is (an essential step)

The First Day Home: What to Expect (and How to Survive It)

The big day is here!

1. Let Them Explore Slowly

Don’t give them free rein of the entire house right away. Start small — one or two rooms at a time. Let them sniff, wander, and get their bearings.

Everything is new: smells, sounds, even the floor. (Some puppies are personally offended by hardwood.)

2. Potty Break First!

Before your puppy even steps inside, take them straight to their designated potty area.

This sets the tone for training and avoids your new rug becoming “the first memory.”

3. Keep It Low-Key

Your puppy’s first day is overwhelming — they’ve left their littermates, familiar smells, and routines.

• Keep things calm and quiet

• Avoid inviting 12 friends over to meet the puppy

• Offer gentle reassurance, not too much handling

Let them approach you at their own pace — especially if they’re shy or unsure.

4. Introduce the Crate Early

Think of the crate as their safe space, not puppy jail. Toss in a treat, a soft toy, or a blanket, and let them explore it on their own.

The earlier crate training starts, the smoother your nights (and house training!) will go.

5. Expect Accidents. And Zoomies.

Yes, there will be potty accidents. Yes, your puppy will turn into a tiny tornado of zooms right before bedtime. Both are completely normal.

Have a good enzyme cleaner on hand and a sense of humor ready.

6. Feed, Potty, Nap, Repeat

Your puppy’s first day will likely include:

• A small, puppy-sized meal

• About 18 naps

• A dozen bathroom breaks

• At least one attempt to eat a sock

• You falling in love about 47 times

End the Day With Calm and Comfort

As the sun sets on your first big day together, try to keep the evening quiet and cozy.

Read them a bedtime story (okay, maybe that’s just us)
Soft background music or a heartbeat toy can help soothe anxiety
Be patient with whimpering or restlessness — it’s a big adjustment

And don’t worry — even if the first night’s a little rough, your puppy is learning that you’re their new safe place.

Final Woofs

Bringing home a Jack Russell puppy is equal parts joy, chaos, and cuddles. With a little prep and a lot of love, your puppy’s first day home can be a smooth (and unforgettable) start to your life together.

Just remember: behind every chewed slipper and midnight potty trip is a best friend in the making.