Update on Puppy Pen Setup
What is puppy management?
Setting Up Your Puppy Playpen: Tips for a Smooth Start
Bringing home a new puppy is an exciting time but it also comes with a big responsibility - setting your pup (and yourself!) up for success. One of the most helpful tools you can use in the early weeks is a puppy playpen.
A well-organized playpen is a safe space where your puppy can rest, explore, and learn the rules of living in a human home. It also gives you a break when you need to cook dinner, answer emails, or manage other parts of your day while keeping your pup nearby.
Key Components of a Puppy Pen Setup
A comfy bed or crate
A potty area (artificial turf is preferred if indoors)
Access to fresh water
A few safe toys or chews
Gates or barriers to limit access and avoid accidents
The idea is to help your puppy learn what behaviors are appropriate in your home by guiding them toward good choices and managing their environment.
Need help? Please don’t hesitate to reach out I’m happy to walk you through the setup that works best for your space.
What About Sleep & Crating?
I recently spoke with a family who mentioned that their previous Vizsla climbed right out of a playpen! Every pup is different, and while some do well in a pen, others may settle better in a crate.
By around 9 weeks of age, most puppies can sleep through the night in a crate, especially if it’s placed in your bedroom. Sometimes just resting your fingers near the puppy helps them settle. If your puppy fusses in the night, they likely need to potty. Here’s what to do:
Stay calm and quiet.
Gently carry them to the potty area and use your cue (“go potty,” “hurry up,” etc.).
Praise lightly once they go, then scoop them up and return them to the crate—no play or excitement.
As long as they’re comfortable and not cold, most puppies will fall back asleep quickly.
Managing your puppy’s space through pens and crates is one of the best ways to avoid accidents and encourage good behavior. Remember that supervision, consistency, and routine are key. Any questions, please reach out.