Take a good sturdy carrier box with you to collect your new puppy to make sure he doesn't escape on the journey home.
If you are getting a puppy, it is a good idea to take a piece of cloth or bedding from the breeders home with you so that the scent of his home is still there. Alternatively, you could use DAP spray in the box and car to help calm the dog down.
Try to make sure that your journey is as short as possible. It is a good idea to have your new dog checked over by your own vet on the way home so that if something is wrong, you are not too attached to it! Other than this stop, take your dog straight home.
Before leaving the breeder or rescue centre, make sure that all relevant paperwork is filled in. Do not agree to having anything sent on to you, make sure that all relevant documents are present before you take your dog home. This is particularly relevant to pedigree papers.
Take a sample of the food that the dog has been receiving so that you can continue to feed this for the first few days.
First of all, take your new pet out into the garden and allow him to relieve himself. Reward him profusely for doing so. It is best to teach the dog immediately where you want him to go.
If you have any other pets, keep them out of the way while the newcomer is exploring their new surroundings. Put the dog in an enclosed, quiet room and allow them to explore in their own time. Having a DAP diffuser in the room or wearing a DAP collar can help the dog feel more confident. Do not offer them food immediately as this may cause an upset stomach.
Allow the dog to explore each room of the house in turn. Do not try to fuss them but if they come to you, feel free to give them a stroke. Playing with puppies can help them to settle in but do not be too rough. It is usually best to keep young children out of the way while the new pet is exploring.
Once the dog seems fairly settled, the introductions to the rest of the family can take place. Try to keep the situation as calm as possible. I will deal with introducing a new dog to existing animals elsewhere.