Settling In Your Kolorko Puppy: Play, Pens, and Practical Tips

Bringing home a new puppy is exciting, but it can also feel a little overwhelming. At Kolorko, we want you to feel confident and prepared to help your puppy settle into its new environment, safely and happily.

This guide will walk you through what to expect in those early days, and how to support your pup’s development through structure, safety, and plenty of supervised play.

Day Pens and Safe Spaces

When your Kolorko puppy first comes home, they may seem quiet or shy. That’s completely normal. They’ve just left their mum, siblings, and the only environment they’ve ever known. Don’t worry, it won’t last long. In no time at all, you’ll have a curious, energetic pup who’s biting, pulling, jumping and exploring everything.

To help your puppy settle in:

  • Use a day pen or small enclosed area during the day, especially when you’re not able to supervise.
  • Avoid giving full access to your entire yard too early. Puppies are explorers and diggers. Check your yard for escape points like loose fencing or gaps under the gate.
  • If your puppy is confined and can’t access grass for toileting, provide puppy pads or an astro turf tray.

You’ll know when your puppy is ready for more freedom, but never rush this. And if you’re welcoming a Chihuahua, do not leave them unsupervised in the yard. These tiny pups can be vulnerable to birds of prey, even in suburban areas.

The Importance of Play

Playtime is a critical part of a puppy’s emotional and physical development. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should be enriching and interactive.

Our puppies love:

  • Plastic bottles, empty or filled with rice
  • Affordable toys from places like K-Mart
  • Cardboard boxes with food hidden in shredded paper
  • Pillowcases stuffed with noisy, safe items and tied off
  • Balls, ropes, and frisbees for tug-of-war and fetch

Avoid giving your puppy old towels, shoes, or thongs; they won’t know the difference between these and your good ones. Teaching boundaries early saves frustration (and furniture) down the track.

Walking and Exercise Guidelines

As tempting as it may be to show off your new pup at the park, we strongly recommend holding off until all three rounds of vaccinations are complete. Even fully vaccinated puppies are at risk of contracting serious diseases from public areas.

We also don’t recommend running with your pup until they’re at least 6 to 7 months old, ideally closer to 12 months, when their bones and joints are more developed. High-impact activities and jumping should be discouraged during their early growth phase.

Fencing and Yard Safety

Puppies should never be left in the yard unattended especially not near the front yard. Sadly, not everyone is trustworthy, and a friendly pup could be easily taken. Beyond that, even a well-fenced yard needs regular checks.

Tips for fencing and yard safety:

  • Ensure all fencing is secure and dig-proof.
  • Don’t underestimate a curious pup. If they find a way out once, they’ll remember it.
  • Be especially cautious with Border Collies—they’re clever and determined.

Dogs do not have road sense. A scent or noise can be enough to lead them into danger. Prevention is everything.

Understanding Sexual Maturity

Dogs reach sexual maturity around 6 months of age. For females, this means they can come into season (also called “on heat”) and may do so once or twice a year for the rest of their lives.

Signs of being in season include:

  • Swelling of the vulva
  • Bloody to watery discharge (changes over the course of about three weeks)
  • Increased interest from male dogs—even those far away

During this time, bitches should be securely confined and separated from any entire males.

If you’ve signed an agreement to desex your puppy, it’s best done at 6 months, either just before or after her first season. Avoid desexing during a season, as the risks and costs are significantly higher. Speak to your vet for advice on timing and pricing.

If you ever feel unsure about how to manage these early weeks, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you and your puppy, every step of the way.