Daily Routine

Your Puppy’s First Routine: A Gentle Start to the Day

6:00 AM — First Things First: Outside and Bathroom Time

As soon as your puppy wakes up, take them out of the crate carrying them to about 1 foot before the door’s threshold then Call your pup confidently by name and encourage them to follow you—this is a perfect moment to reinforce their name and build trust (1000 Times Rule!). Go with them at the beginning to ensure that they feel safe for approximately 2 weeks also at this stage you will be able to see when they do their business. Once your pup knows his or her routine and feels comfortable running outside as usual you need not hold them to the threshold of the room. The key is to take your puppy out immediately to prevent any accidents in their kennel once they have awakened or in the house! You can either quickly put on a harness and leash or simply open the door to your yard—whichever works best for you. Always take your puppy to the same spot outside and use the same word each time to signal that it’s bathroom time. Consistency here is key! IMPORTANT: Once your puppy has done their business, bring them inside and serve their breakfast. Watch closely—your pup might pause mid-meal to swallow or take a little break. Only when they turn away from the food bowl and move away can you be sure they’re done eating. Immediately after they finish eating, take your puppy outside again—no delays! This second morning bathroom break is essential to successful housebreaking. Skipping it risks accidents and setbacks. Remember, housebreaking is about education and communication, not punishment. If you do need to correct an accident, gently but clearly hold your pup close to the accident, slap the floor to get their attention, and say firmly to the poo or pee, “No pee,” “No poop,” or “Not good.” Sensitive puppies might need softer cues, but the sound should be distinct and clearly corrective. Then promptly take them outside again—they’ll learn quickly. In fact, Royal Frenchels almost always go to the bathroom twice every morning throughout their first year. While exceptions can happen, this is the pattern we’ve consistently observed! 5-Minute Hands-On Play: Building Connection After coming inside from a successful bathroom break, spend 5 uninterrupted minutes playing with your puppy. Give them your full attention—make eye contact, engage with gentle touches, and enjoy this special bonding time. Making this hands-on play a daily habit deepens your intuitive understanding of your puppy and strengthens your connection. Your pup will love the focused attention, and you’ll both benefit from the growing trust and affection. If your puppy didn’t go to the bathroom during the second break, place them in their crate with a safe chew toy or into a designated play area for about 20 minutes. Then take them outside again to try. Playtime and Exploration After the bathroom and hands-on play, give your puppy about 45 minutes to play freely with toys and explore the home. When your puppy is new, it’s wonderful to spend an extra 25 minutes of focused time with them during this play to build your bond and learn their unique personality.

9:00 AM: Rest & Naptime

After a busy morning, it’s time for your puppy to relax. Place your pup back in their crate with a safe chew toy and let them rest peacefully for 1½ to 2 hours. Dehydration Check Make sure your puppy stays well-hydrated. To check, gently pinch the skin on the back of their neck and see how quickly it snaps back. If it’s slow or sticky, your pup may be dehydrated. If it bounces back promptly, they’re doing fine. If dehydration is a concern, offer fluids such as the Breeders Edge Milk you received or a tasty broth your puppy enjoys. Never ignore signs of dehydration—if you have doubts, call me right away at 360-561-0003.

10:45 AM: Bathroom Break & Play

Take your pup out right after waking to prevent accidents in their crate. Call them confidently by name to follow you without distractions. Whether you use a leash or simply open the door, always bring your puppy to the same bathroom spot and use the same word to signal potty time. 5-Minute Hands-On Play After a successful bathroom break, spend 5 uninterrupted minutes playing with your puppy, focusing all your attention on them. This habit strengthens your bond and helps you better understand your pup’s personality. If your pup didn’t go potty on the second trip, crate them with a chew toy or place them in the play area for about 20 minutes before trying again. Following this, allow your puppy about 45 minutes of free playtime to explore and enjoy the home. Repeat this morning routine after their nap.

11:45 AM: Lunch & Play

Take your puppy outside for another bathroom break. Then, enjoy an hour of playtime before continuing with the day.

3:30 PM: Afternoon Bathroom & Play

Take your pup outside for a bathroom break. Then, give them another 5 minutes of focused hands-on play inside. Follow this with 45 minutes of free playtime, ideally spending some of that time with your puppy for extra bonding.

4:30 – 5:00 PM: Dinner Time

Serve a nutritious meal prepared just like breakfast—the kind of “mambo” meal your puppy loves. Ensure they eat a good portion to stay satisfied through the evening. After dinner, take your pup outside for a bathroom break and spend about 20 minutes outdoors if possible. Evening Playtime After returning inside, give your puppy 5 minutes of hands-on play, followed by about 45 minutes of free playtime. This activity helps tire your pup out so they’ll settle well for bedtime. Continue to take your puppy outside regularly, gradually extending the intervals between bathroom breaks—from every 45 minutes to an hour and a half. A good evening romp helps secure a peaceful night’s sleep for everyone. Dogs may take short naps during this time, but try to prevent naps longer than an hour to encourage better rest overnight.

8:00 – 9:00 PM: Bedtime Routine

Before bedtime, take your puppy out for a final bathroom break. Avoid letting them eat or drink too much right before bed—make sure they’ve had plenty of food and water at dinner to keep them comfortable through the night.

11:00 PM: Quick Bathroom Break

Wake your puppy briefly for a quick bathroom trip, then tuck them back in for a restful night.

Closing Note: A Day Filled with Love and Care

Your puppy’s first weeks at home are a precious time of learning, bonding, and growing together. Following this gentle, consistent routine helps your Royal Frenchel feel safe, supported, and loved. Remember, patience and kindness are your best tools as your pup adjusts to their new world. Every bathroom break, play session, and quiet moment builds the foundation for a lifelong friendship filled with trust and joy. If you ever need guidance or reassurance, we’re here for you every step of the way. Welcome again to the Royal Frenchel family—here’s to many happy, healthy days ahead!