Training/Go Home Tips

🐾 Get Ready For Your Puppy

Take-Home Information from KK’s Doodle Bunch

Here are some basics to help you care for your new puppy:

1. Exercise

Avoid excessive running, jumping, or stair climbing—these can damage developing joints, mostly in larger (50+ lb) sized doodles. All of our Doodles should fall under that weight by quite a bit, but it's always good to take precautions. 

Play in the yard, with kids, or take short walks—these are great activities! Once fully vaccinated (after 16 weeks), your puppy can safely visit dog parks, pet stores, and other high-dog areas. Before that, avoid places with unknown dogs to reduce disease risk.

2. Vaccines

Puppies receive temporary immunity from mom’s milk, which fades between 6–15 weeks. Because timing varies, we vaccinate in a series to build full immunity.

At KK’s Doodle Bunch, puppies receive first vaccines at 6 weeks to protect against parvo, even in the presence of maternal antibodies. Schedule a vet appointment within 3 days of bringing your puppy home for their second set of vaccinations and wellness check. Bring your puppy’s medical record to this visit.

3. First Day Home

When you get home, take your puppy straight to the potty area to introduce the spot. If they’re too excited, step back for a minute—once they go potty, reward with treats and praise!

Puppies need to potty every 2 hours and after waking, eating, drinking, or playing. Always praise and reward when they go outside—this creates intentional, repeat behavior.

4. Feeding

Keep water available all day but remove it two hours before bedtime. Feed three small meals daily and remove uneaten food after 15 minutes.

Here’s a guideline:

  • Petite (10–20 lbs): 1/2 cup, 2x per day

  • Miniature (20–30 lbs): 1/2 - 3/4 cup, 2x per day

A sample feeding schedule:

  • 7 AM – Potty, breakfast, and short training

  • 12 PM – Lunch

  • 5–6 PM – Dinner

If your puppy skips meals or develops loose stool, adjust portions slightly.

5. Sleeping & Crate Training

Your puppy has been crate-trained but not alone. Expect a few nights of whining—this is normal!

Tips for success:

  1. Remove food/water two hours before bedtime.

  2. Take puppy potty before bed.

  3. Place crate near your bed for comfort.

  4. If crying continues, offer comfort briefly without play.

  5. Carry puppy to potty if they wake in the night.

At 8 weeks, most puppies can hold it for 5–6 hours overnight.

6. Training

Start right away! Puppies learn through rewards, not punishment. Reward desired behaviors with treats and attention; ignore or redirect undesired ones.

Enroll in the Baxter & Bella online training program —it’s excellent for new puppy parents!

7. Grooming

Doodles need consistent brushing and grooming. Use a slicker brush daily to prevent mats, and introduce haircuts every 6–8 weeks. Avoid over-bathing to protect coat oils.

8. Diarrhea

Common causes:

  • Switching food too quickly

  • Overfeeding

  • Parasites like giardia or coccidia

We deworm and treat for both preventatively. Feed the same food your puppy is used to, and transition slowly if switching brands. 

9. Chewing

Teething puppies love to chew! Offer safe chew options like Bully Sticks or frozen Kongs. Avoid rawhide. Supervise and redirect chewing to approved toys.

10. Adolescence

Around 10 months old, you might notice regression in training—this is normal! Stay consistent and calm; the phase passes within a few months.

11. Spay/Neuter

We recommend spaying or neutering around 6–12 months old. While there’s debate about timing, early alteration prevents unwanted litters and behavior issues.

🐶 Basic Supplies Checklist

  • Collar and leash

  • Crate and pad

  • Food and water bowls

  • Chew toys

📋 Final Preparations Before Pickup

Checklist:

  1. Schedule vet appointment

  2. Purchase optional training program

  3. Sign contract

  4. Order food

  5. Pay final invoice

  6. Arrange transportation or pickup

Vet Appointment

Please schedule a wellness exam within 72 hours of pickup to validate your health guarantee. Bring your puppy’s records and the attached vet letter.

Contract & Health Guarantee

A 1-year health guarantee and spay/neuter contract will be sent via email. Please acknowledge by replying to the email sent with your name, address, and phone number with the statement "I agree"

Food

Continue feeding Victor Hi-Pro Plus to prevent tummy upset. If you decide to switch make sure to add in the other food to the bag given to you slowly!

You can get Victor Hi- Pro Plus at Chewy.com, Tractor Supply, or sometimes your local feed store. 

Final Invoice

Invoices are sent via our website, or can be paid via Zelle, Paypal, or Venmo. 

Transportation & Pickup

Coordinate with KK’s Doodle Bunch to confirm pickup or delivery. Any transportation fees can be paid via Venmo or as discussed.

Pet Insurance

Enjoy 30 days of free Trupanion pet insurance—call within 24 hours of pickup using our provided code.

💕 Community Connection

Join our KK’s Doodle Bunch Family Facebook Group! It’s a great space to share photos, get tips, and stay in touch with littermates. 

Our community thrives on referrals and repeat families—thank you for helping us grow! Tag us in your puppy adventures so we can follow along!