Starting points.

Initial goals for my new baby, Autumn, are as follows.

1. Get to know her.

I've been watching pics and videos of this litter since birth and based on what I saw, this was the puppy I wanted. Now, I get to learn about her in real time in my home.

2. Build the relationship.

You only get one chance at a first impression. It's stressful for a puppy when you remove them from their life and put them into yours. My aim is to quickly establish myself (and my husband) as trustworthy anchors in this new world.

3. Introduce different experiences carefully and safely.

Travelling home, she got a fright when she heard wiper blades and motor bikes. She also recovered quickly.

She didn't panic, just sat up and tried to move away. Then settled again. This is valuable information. She needs positive experiences with different sounds.

I'm being cautious around time with my dogs. I want them all to be buddies and we have just spent a month out of the country while there were house sitters here. I'm giving the adult dogs as much space and separation as they appear to need.

Sometimes to go quickly, you have to go slowly.