Congratulations on your new Staffordshire Bull Terrier puppy! The first month is crucial for setting the foundation for a happy, well-adjusted dog. Here’s what to expect during those exciting first 30 days.
Week 1: Adjustment and Bonding
What’s Happening: Your puppy is adjusting to their new environment. They’ve left their littermates and everything familiar, so some stress is normal.
Expect:
- Lots of sleeping (puppies sleep 18-20 hours daily)
- Possible crying at night
- Accidents during house training
- Cautious exploration of their new home
Your Focus:
- Establish a consistent routine for feeding, potty breaks, and sleep
- Begin crate training positively
- Schedule first vet visit within 7 days
- Start building trust through gentle handling
Week 2: Gaining Confidence
What’s Happening: Your Staffie puppy is settling in and showing more personality. They’re becoming braver and more playful.
Expect:
- Increased energy and playfulness
- More frequent zoomies (sudden bursts of running)
- Testing boundaries with mouthing and nipping
- Better sleep patterns at night
Your Focus:
- Begin basic command training (sit, come, their name)
- Redirect mouthing to appropriate toys
- Continue consistent potty training schedule
- Introduce new people, sounds, and experiences safely
Week 3: The “Honeymoon” Ends
What’s Happening: Your puppy is fully comfortable now—which means they’re testing limits! This is when you might see more challenging behaviors emerge.
Expect:
- More energetic play
- Increased chewing on everything
- Possible stubbornness during training
- Complete comfort with their environment
Your Focus:
- Stay consistent with rules and boundaries
- Puppy-proof areas they have access to
- Provide plenty of appropriate chew toys
- Enroll in puppy kindergarten classes
Week 4: Establishing Patterns
What’s Happening: You and your puppy are developing a rhythm. They understand routines and are learning household rules.
Expect:
- Better response to basic commands
- Improved potty training (though accidents still happen)
- Strong bond forming between you
- Distinct personality emerging
Your Focus:
- Build on basic obedience training
- Continue socialization efforts
- Maintain exercise and mental stimulation
- Reinforce good behaviors consistently
Key Reminders for Month One
✓ Patience is essential – Your puppy is learning everything for the first time
✓ Consistency creates confidence – Keep schedules and rules predictable
✓ Socialization is critical – Expose them to new experiences positively
✓ Rest matters – Don’t over-stimulate your puppy
✓ Celebrate small wins – Every successful potty break and learned command is progress!
You’ve Got This!
The first 30 days lay the groundwork for your entire relationship with your Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Stay patient, stay consistent, and enjoy watching your puppy grow into a confident, well-adjusted companion. Need support? We’re always here to help our Santa Paws families!