I'm getting a new Siberian Husky puppy, do you have any thoughts on how to make the first couple of nights in my home the least traumatic?

So I have a new 8 week old Siberian on the way, it it’s been almost 30 years since I’ve had one this young - even though I’ve had four previous huskys. I’m looking for advice on the first few nights, and with all the videos and trainers I feel like everyone’s training advice is all different.

I have a crate, but it’s not in my bedroom (although my house isn’t huge - about 1600 sqft). I think I have enough of the right gear, and am always up for other suggestions. But I will be driving about 5 hours to get him each way, so I’m not sure I’ll be home in time for a gradual introduction to the crate. Any thoughts on how to make the first couple nights the least traumatic?

Cindy's Answer

I'd suggest our course Your Puppy 8 Weeks to 12 Months for how Ed and I raise puppies in our home. I raise a new puppy about every 2 years or so (many different breeds) and we've come up with a system that we find works best for us and helps create a nice dog to live with.

I would put the crate next to your bed at first, I find that if the puppy is upset often just sticking your fingers in the crate gives the pup some comfort that they're not 'alone'.

You can also hear them start to move around and whimper so if they need to go outside you can take the pup out before they have an accident. Hopefully, the breeder introduced the crate to the litter of pups so it's not so stressful. Also, if the breeder can send a small towel or baby blanket that the puppies slept with I like to take that along for comfort as well.