The First 48 Hours – What to Expect When Bringing Your Finnish Lapphund Puppy Home

So, the big day has arrived and you're bringing home your Finnish Lapphund puppy! This is such an exciting time, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. What if they don’t settle in? What if they cry all night? How do you make sure they feel safe and happy?

Take a deep breath. You’ve got this! The first 48 hours are all about creating a smooth transition, and we are here to guide you through it. Let’s talk about what to expect and how to make those first moments with your new family member as stress-free as possible.

🚗 The Car Ride Home: Keeping It Calm and Comfortable

First things first, getting your puppy home. This is their first time away from their littermates and the only environment they’ve ever known. That’s a big deal, and it’s normal for them to feel a little unsure.

Here’s how to make the car ride as smooth as possible:

✅ Use a secure crate or have someone hold them gently. Safety comes first since puppies can get wiggly, and a loose pup in a moving car is risky. We recommend either a crate or a washing basket to keep your puppy contained. See our equipment list.

✅ Keep it quiet and soothing. No loud music or overwhelming attention. Just calm, reassuring voices or the radio.

✅ Be prepared for car sickness. Most baby puppies get queasy in the car, so it’s a good idea to bring extra old towels just in case.

If they whimper, don’t panic. A soft voice, a gentle stroke, and a little patience go a long way. Before you know it, you’ll be pulling into your driveway, ready for the next adventure.

Before you set off on your journey home, we offer your puppy water and the opportunity to toilet. If your trip home is under 2 hours in duration, you won't need to stop for them to have a toilet break. If your trip is greater than two hours and you need to stop, you'll need to pick a grassed area that isn't commonly frequented by other dogs, to reduce their risk of picking up viruses due to their vaccination status.

🏡 Arriving Home: First Impressions Matter!

You’re home! Before you let them loose in their new kingdom, take it slow. Your puppy needs time to take everything in.

✅ Take them straight to their toilet spot. It's best to carry them to this location as they likely will want to toilet. A quick bathroom break helps set good habits from the start.

✅ Introduce them to their designated area. Whether it’s a crate, a puppy pen, or a cozy corner, show them where they can feel safe.

✅ Keep greetings low-key. It’s tempting to smother them with love, but too much excitement can be overwhelming. Let them explore at their own pace.

Some puppies settle in right away, while others take a little longer. Be patient and let them adjust on their terms.

A common message we receive in the first 24 hours is 'they're haven't pooped yet!' Don't worry, it will come, it's just first day nerves.

🍽️ The First Meal: Will They Eat?

It’s been a big day, and your puppy might not be in the mood to eat right away. That’s completely normal.

✅ Stick with similar food. Sudden diet changes can upset their tummy. We recommend Lyka. Use code ORICAL20 for 30% off your first order.

✅ Make mealtime stress-free. A quiet space, a shallow bowl, and a little encouragement work wonders.

✅ Keep fresh water available at all times. Hydration is key.

If they only nibble, don’t worry. Its common for puppies to go off their food, their new environment is so strange and exciting that food isn't at the forefront of their mind. We advise to expect your puppy to have a greatly reduced appetite for the first 1-2 weeks they are home. There's no need to switch their diet or try to induce them with 'tastier food'. While well intentioned, this can cause other problems. Instead, return any uneaten food after 10 mins to the fridge for their next meal. As long as they are drinking water and mood seems fine, they are ok and their appetite will increase in the weeks to come.

🌙 The First Night: Preparing for a Few Whimpers

Most puppies cry on their first night. They are in a new place, and suddenly, everything smells, sounds, and feels different. But don’t worry, you can help them feel safe and secure.

✅ Let them sleep near you. A crate or bed in your bedroom can help them feel less alone.

✅ Use a soft toy or blanket that smells familiar. We send a blanket with the their mother’s scent, which can be incredibly comforting.

✅ Expect night-time toilet breaks. Young puppies can’t hold it all night, so be ready to take them out at least once or twice.

If they cry, resist the urge to take them out of the crate just to comfort them. That will teach them that crying gets them what they want. Instead, use a reassuring voice to help them settle.

⏳ Establishing a Routine: Puppies Love Structure!

One of the best things you can do from day one is start a simple routine. Puppies thrive on predictability, and knowing what to expect will help them feel more secure.

✅ Set a schedule for feeding, toilet breaks, and playtime. Consistency is key.

✅ Start basic training right away. Even simple things like “sit” and “come” help build confidence. Just 30 seconds of training a few times a day can make a big impact!

✅ Allow plenty of naps. Puppies sleep a lot, sometimes up to 18 hours a day. Give them quiet time to recharge.

By day two, you’ll already start to see them settling in, getting comfortable, and figuring out their new normal.

💡 Final Thoughts: You’ve Got This!

The first 48 hours with your Finnish Lapphund puppy will be filled with excitement, love, and probably a few challenges. That’s completely normal. Remember to be patient, Rome wasn't built in a day and either will your puppies training and life skills be. Keep their environment calm, and enjoy every moment because you’re building the foundation for a lifetime of companionship.

If you have any questions, need advice, or just want to share a cute puppy pic (because let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), don’t hesitate to reach out, we love to hear from you!