8‑Week‑Old Puppy Routine: Your Simple Daily Schedule

Got an 8‑week‑old pup and wondering what a day should look like? At this age your puppy needs structure, but you don’t have to micromanage every minute. A balanced routine helps with potty training, socialising, and building good habits while keeping both of you sane.

Morning: Food, Potty, and Play

Start the day with a small, nutritious breakfast. Most 8‑week‑old puppies do well with ¼ to ½ cup of high‑quality puppy kibble split into three meals a day. After eating, take your pup outside to the same spot you’ll use for all future potty trips. Consistency teaches them where to go.

Give a short 5‑10 minute play session right after the potty break. Simple games like fetch or tug help burn energy and boost bonding. Keep the play calm enough so the puppy doesn’t get overstimulated before the next nap.

Mid‑Day: Naps, Training, and Socialisation

Puppies at eight weeks need about 18‑20 hours of sleep, so schedule a nap after the morning play. A crate or a quiet corner works well; make it cozy with a blanket. When the pup wakes, do a quick 5‑minute training bite. Focus on one command such as “sit” or “come.” Short, frequent sessions work better than long, boring ones.

After training, offer a second meal and another potty break. Follow up with a gentle walk around the yard or a short leash walk. Let the puppy sniff safely – this is key socialisation. If you can, introduce them to a calm, vaccinated adult dog for a few minutes to practice proper play.

Wrap up the afternoon with another nap. Keep the environment quiet and dark if possible; a tired puppy naps better.

Evening: Dinner, Calm Time, and Bedtime

Serve the third meal around sunset. Offer fresh water after eating and head outside for the final potty break of the day. This is the time to reinforce the “go” spot one more time.

After dinner, keep activities low‑key. A short leash walk or a gentle chew toy helps wind down. Avoid high‑energy games late at night; they can make the puppy too wired to settle.

Finish the day with a bedtime routine: a quick brush, a calm petting session, and a final trip outside. Place the crate or bed in a quiet area, perhaps with a piece of your clothing for comfort. Consistency signals to the puppy that it’s time to sleep.

Stick to this schedule for a week or two and you’ll notice fewer accidents, calmer behaviour, and a stronger bond. Adjust feeding amounts based on your vet’s advice and watch your pup’s weight. If you need extra potty breaks, add them – the goal is to keep the routine flexible enough for growth.

Remember, the routine is a guide, not a prison. Puppies grow fast, so be ready to tweak feeding times, nap lengths, and training focus as they develop. With a clear, simple structure, your 8‑week‑old puppy will thrive and you’ll enjoy a smoother start to puppy parenthood.