Puppies are one of life’s biggest pleasures. Once you’ve made the decision to add a puppy to your family, you’ve committed to caring for him as best you can, and to making thoughtful, informed decisions about his needs. We know that it can feel overwhelming, which is why we’ve gathered everything you need on all things puppies in one easy place so that you can be as knowledgeable as possible:
Find the Right Breed for You
Your first step to finding your new puppy is to decide which breed of dog is right for you and your lifestyle. Answer just a few questions, we’ll suggest the best breeds for you to consider. Get started here.
Find a Breeder – and Your Next Puppy!
Once you’ve decided on the breed you want, your next step is to find a breeder you trust. Get our best tips for choosing a breeder such as which questions to ask; what kind of documentation you should be given; and more. Search for AKC-Registered litters and breeders here.
Name Your Puppy
Sometimes, the hardest decision of all is what to name your pup! Let our Dog Name Finder inspire you with the perfect name for your perfect dog.
Prepare for Your Puppy
It’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of adding a puppy to your family but it’s important to prepare before you bring him home.
- Get our Favorite Essentials for Puppies, including the best puppy toys, collars, leashes, dog pads and crates; and more.
- New Puppy Checklist: Everything You’ll Need for Your New Puppy
Puppies require a lot of care and attention, so it is a good idea to plan ahead and buy the things you’ll need before you bring him home.
Caring for Your Puppy
He’s home and he’s the cutest thing ever! But he’s also one of your biggest responsibilities, and it’s time for you to learn everything you can about how to keep him healthy and happy. Get all the puppy information you need to raise your puppy to be healthy, happy and well-adjusted.
Month by Month Information:
- Preparing For Puppy
- 2 Months Old
- 3 Months Old
- 4 Months Old
- 5 Months Old
- 6 Months Old
- 7 Months Old
- 8 Months Old
- 9 Months Old
- 10 Months Old
- 11 Months Old
- 12 Months Old
Train Your Puppy
The first few months of a puppy’s life are critical for training. The habits puppies learn early on will be with them throughout their entire lives, from good socialization skills to basic household manners.
- Get tips for training puppies, from potty training to coming when called.
- Sign up for a basic training class taught by an AKC Approved CGC Evaluator.
- Enroll him in the AKC S.T.A.R. Puppy Program, a positive behavioral program to training puppies that is fun for both you and your dog.
Register Your Puppy
When you register your dog with the AKC, you’ll permanently record his name and place in breed history, and gain access to resources and services for every stage of his life. Plus, you’ll be able to participate in our sports and events; connect with our 24/7 helpline expert training advice; get lifetime dog recovery services; earn a free initial vet appointment; and more. Register your puppy here.
Be a Responsible Owner
Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. When you take a dog into your life, you need to understand the commitment that dog ownership entails. Learn how to be a responsible dog owner.