8-Week-Old Puppy Guide: Care, Feeding and Training
Eight weeks is a magic number in the puppy world. It is the age at which most puppies leave their litters, and it is when your life together begins. At this age, your puppy is tiny, curious and learning fast, and it needs a lot of gentle guidance.
Development at eight weeks
An eight-week-old puppy can see and hear well, walks and runs with increasing coordination and has a full set of baby teeth. It is learning about the world through play and exploration, and is highly responsive to positive experiences. It is also vulnerable to stress, so calm and consistent handling are important. The puppy is within the socialization window, so the experiences you offer now matter. See our guide to puppy development stages.
Feeding
- Offer three to four small meals a day, at regular times.
- Use the same food that the breeder gave, at least at first.
- Measure portions according to the food label and your vet's advice.
- Provide fresh water at all times.
- Do not give table scraps, which can upset the stomach and encourage begging.
Our puppy feeding schedule by age provides guidance.
Sleep
Eight-week-old puppies sleep a lot, usually in short bursts. Provide a quiet crate or pen for naps, and avoid waking your puppy unless necessary. Overtired puppies become cranky and mouthy. Night sleep may be interrupted by toilet needs, so expect to get up once or twice. See our guide on first nights.
Toilet training
Start immediately.
- Take your puppy out first thing in the morning, after every meal, after naps and after play, and every one to two hours in between.
- Go to the same spot each time and use a cue word.
- Reward immediately after your puppy goes.
- Clean accidents with an enzymatic cleaner and do not scold.
Our potty training guide provides the full plan.
Early training
Keep sessions to one to three minutes. Good starting points:
- Name recognition: Say the name, and reward eye contact.
- Sit: Lure with a treat above the nose.
- Handling: Gently touch paws, ears, mouth and tail with treats.
- Crate comfort: Make it a happy place with treats and chews.
- Leash and collar: Let your puppy wear a light collar indoors for short periods.
Socialization
Introduce your puppy to a few new things each day, such as different surfaces, household sounds and calm visitors. Keep experiences positive, and do not overwhelm your puppy. Follow your vet's advice about when and where your puppy can go outside. See our socialization checklist.
Biting and play
Eight-week-old puppies explore with their mouths. Redirect biting to toys, and stop play briefly if teeth touch skin. Provide safe chews. See our guide to puppy biting.
Health
Book a vet visit in the first few days for a health check, vaccination plan and parasite control. See our first vet visit guide.
Safety
Puppy-proof your home and yard, supervise at all times and keep your puppy away from stairs, cords and toxic items. Our puppy-proofing guide can help.
A sample day
- 7:00: Toilet, breakfast, toilet, play.
- 8:00: Nap.
- 10:00: Toilet, short training, play.
- 11:00: Nap.
- 12:30: Toilet, lunch, toilet.
- Afternoon: Play, training, naps and toilet trips every one to two hours.
- Evening: Dinner, toilet, calm time and a final toilet trip before bed.
The takeaway
Eight weeks is the start of a big adventure. Keep things gentle, consistent and positive, and your puppy will settle into its new home. For what comes next, see our guide to 10-week-old puppies.
Frequently asked questions
How often should an eight-week-old puppy eat?
Typically three to four small meals a day. Follow the breeder or vet's guidance for amounts.
How long can an eight-week-old puppy hold its bladder?
Often only an hour or two while awake, and a bit longer when asleep.
Can an eight-week-old puppy go outside?
In a private, safe yard away from unvaccinated dogs, usually yes. Ask your vet about public places.
How much does an eight-week-old puppy sleep?
Often 18 to 20 hours a day, in many short naps.