A good first week begins with a small, predictable environment—not with a house full of freedom.
Divide the home into three zones
Zone 01
Safe zone
Playpen, crate, fresh water and a washable bed. This is where the puppy rests, eats calmly and succeeds without constant correction.
Zone 02
Activity zone
Open only when an adult is actively supervising. Keep the area small enough to notice sniffing, circling and unwanted chasing before it escalates.
Zone 03
Restricted zone
Stairs, balconies, the backyard pond or pool, and the garage remain physically blocked—not merely “off limits” by verbal instruction.
Breed-specific safety sweep
Equipment list
Use the listed AUD reference ranges where provided. Choose equipment for this adult dog's measured body, prior handling history and observed comfort; sizes, brands and prices vary.
| Priority | Item and requirement | Approx. AUD reference |
|---|---|---|
| Essential | A gated quiet zone with a warm washable bed; use a crate only if the dog is already comfortable entering and resting in one | $25–220 depending on bed, gate and any voluntarily used crate |
| Essential | Identification collar and professionally fitted escape-resistant Y-shaped or three-point harness | $35–90 for the base lead + fitted harness category; collar separate |
| Essential | Short lead, 1.2–1.8 m, plus a backup connector between harness and identification collar | Included in the $35–90 base lead + harness reference; check the backup connector locally |
| Escape-resistant physical management during settling and outside secure fencing | A professionally fitted escape-resistant three-point harness, backup connector to the identification collar and safely handled long line | Check current local price |
| Essential | Stainless-steel bowls and an enzyme cleaner for toilet accidents | $27–70 for two bowls and cleaner |
| Home-environment introduction from zero | Visible glass-door markers and secure non-slip floor runners | Check current local price |
| Useful | Two food puzzles and veterinarian-approved adult chew options matched to this dog's teeth, digestion and chewing style | $20–70 for the chew + food-puzzle category |
| Low body fat and pressure-sore prevention | Warm, soft bedding suited to the dog's resting position | Check current local price |
| Do not buy yet | Retractable lead or any collar designed to tighten around the neck | Not recommended |
| Ask first | Hard bones or rawhide chews; dental condition, digestion and chewing behaviour vary between adult dogs | Ask your veterinarian before choosing a chew |
Approximate 2026 Perth retail ranges; actual prices vary by store.
| Skill | Agreed family cue |
|---|---|
| Sit or calm stand | |
| Down | |
| Come | |
| Wait | |
| Leave it | |
| Drop / Give | |
| Go to mat / Place | |
| Settle |