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Hardest Week With a Puppy: What to Expect & Tips

What is the hardest week of a puppy?

The “hardest week” with a puppy is usually the first week at home. That’s when everything changes at once: your puppy has just been separated from their litter, their routine is brand-new, and they’re trying to figure out where to sleep, where to potty, and who to trust. Even confident puppies can feel overwhelmed, which often shows up as crying, restlessness, accidents, and extra clinginess.

That said, many owners also find a tough stretch around 9–12 weeks, when puppies get bolder and their energy ramps up. This is when nipping, zoomies, and selective hearing can spike—especially if your puppy is overtired or hasn’t learned how to settle yet. If your puppy seems “worse” during this time, it’s often a sign they’re adjusting and testing boundaries, not that training is failing.

Why that first week feels so intense

In the first several nights, sleep disruption is the biggest stressor. A puppy may wake often, cry for company, or panic when left alone. At the same time, potty training is still brand-new, so accidents are common even when you’re doing everything right. Combine that with constant supervision (to prevent chewing, swallowing hazards, or indoor potty breaks), and it can feel like you’re on duty 24/7.

How to get through the hardest stretch

Keep the routine simple and predictable: frequent potty trips, short play sessions, and lots of calm downtime. Use a safe confinement area or crate schedule to prevent rehearsing unwanted behaviors, and prioritize sleep—most puppies need 18–20 hours a day. When biting and wild behavior spike, it’s often a cue for a nap, not more exercise.

For a deeper breakdown of tough puppy stages and what to expect next, visit this complete guide on the hardest week of a puppy.

FAQ

When does puppy teething usually start?

Most puppies start teething around 3–4 months, when baby teeth begin falling out and adult teeth erupt. Chewing and mouthiness often increase during this phase, so consistent redirection to appropriate chew items helps.