After you've tried outside and inside playtime, if you haven't already, introduce your puppy to his/her crate. More than likely your pup hasn't had breakfast and now would be the perfect opportunity. Place some food in the crate and then guide your puppy into the crate. Shut the door behind them. Stay in the area where your puppy can see you but give him/her some space. This will give your puppy a chance to look around and get to know his surroundings - without feeling overwhelmed with new people, other pets and distractions. When you do bring him/her back out of the crate be sure to take him to potty first then let him run around your home.

During your pups first couple of nights your puppy may cry. It's natural, your puppy misses it's old home, mom, and littermates. Be sure to offer comfort. Soothing sounds, soft music, setting the crate by the bed, all these can aid in settling your puppy down. If after a few hours this simply doesn't work you can try attaching a long leash, at least 6 ft., to your bed post and hooking him/her to it. Pups often are comforted by this freedom from the crate the first few nights.

Expect to take your puppy to potty in the wee hours of the morning the first couple weeks. They do have a small bladder. To aid in less nightly pottying try restricting water 2 hours before bed time and letting them go outside right before bedtime.

First thing in the morning be sure to immediately take your puppy outside. The less accidents in the house the better! Try to remember that every time they eat or drink give them a chance to potty. Watch their actions, sniffing, squatting, and hiding are all signs they need to eliminate.

That's it in a nutshell! Just above all give your puppy love. They're in a whole new surrounding, with strange things all around. Snuggle and cuddle him/her as much as you can. They are only puppy size once!