[emmygirl]

What kind of schedule can I expect with a puppy coming home that is about 8 weeks old. Do I put her in crate at 8 at 9 at 10 before we go to bed? Will she wake up at 1 am 2 am or sleep until 6 or so. What will it be like during the day? WHAT AM I IN FOR? Lol

[Alty]

Just like a newborn baby no two puppies are the same.

Some adjust very quickly to being away from their mother and litter mates, others require lots of time and patience.

If you are planning on crate training then make sure to get a crate that isn't too big, otherwise she will pee and poo in it. Just large enough for her to lay down and turn around. Of course, seeing as she's still a puppy and will grow, you may want to get two crates, one for puppyhood and one for adulthood.

Take her out to potty right before bed time and then put her in the crate as you're going to bed. Most people find that it helps to keep the crate in your room for the first little while. That way the puppy can hear your breathing and knows she's not alone.

Be prepared for some sleepless nights. Most puppies will cry for a long time in their crate and for many nights before they get use to it. Also make sure to take puppy out for a potty break in the middle of the night when she wakes up and lets you know. This will help with potty training. Young puppy's cannot hold their bladder over night, just like a baby.

During the day do not leave you puppy in the crate any longer then 1 hour for each month of age.

In other words, if your puppy is 2 months old, then she can only be left in the crate during the day for 2 hours.

As for the hours she'll wake up and how long she'll cry, that all depends on her and on you.

Good luck and enjoy your new addition. :)

[shazamataz]

Had to spread the rep Alty but very good advice.