Your First Day at Daycare

What to Expect at The Dog Den & The Puppy Den

Starting daycare is exciting — and it’s normal to have questions about how the first day will go. This page walks you through what to expect and how to help your dog’s first day feel as smooth and comfortable as possible.

You don’t need to prepare perfectly. We’re here to help guide you and your dog through this transition.

The Details

  • Before Your First Day

    Before your dog’s first daycare day, please make sure we have:

    -Completed enrollment paperwork

    -Signed client agreements

    -Up-to-date vaccination records on file

    If you’re unsure whether everything is complete, our team is happy to help you check.

  • First-Day Arrival Time

    For your dog’s first day of daycare, we ask that you arrive by 7:00 AM.

    Early arrival helps your dog:

    -Settle in gradually

    -Meet new dogs one at a time

    -Learn the routine before the day gets busy

    It also gives us time to:

    -Review paperwork

    -Answer questions

    -Help your dog transition calmly

    If you arrive after 7:00 AM on the first day, we may ask you to reschedule so we can give your dog the best possible start.

  • What to Bring

    For Puppies (Under 6 Months)

    We strongly recommend bringing:

    -A lunch or snack, pre-portioned

    -Food in a clearly labeled, non-breakable container
    (please include your puppy’s first and last name)

    Puppies burn a lot of energy and typically have a mid-day nap. Having a snack beforehand helps them rest more comfortably.

    For Adult Dogs (6 Months and Older)

    Lunch is optional.
    If you’d like your dog to have a lunch and rest break:

    Bring a pre-portioned meal in a clearly labeled, non-breakable container
    (please include your dog’s first and last name)

  • Pick-Up & End of Day

    At pick-up, you’re always welcome to:

    -Ask how your dog did

    -Share observations from home

    -Ask questions about next steps

    It’s normal for dogs to be tired after their first day. Extra rest and a quiet evening are often helpful.

  • Special Note: Topical Flea & Tick

    If your dog uses topical flea and tick prevention, please apply it at least 48 hours before their daycare day.

    Some topical treatments can transfer to other dogs through contact, which can be unsafe — especially for puppies.

    If you have questions about flea and tick products, feel free to reach out before your first day.

  • Looking Ahead: Ongoing Attendance

    For puppies especially, we recommend attending daycare at least one day per week. Regular attendance helps puppies:

    -Build familiarity

    -Feel more relaxed

    -Develop steady social routines

    Many puppies — and adult dogs — do best when they come on consistent days and spend time with familiar friends.

During the Day: How We Support Your Dog

Your dog’s entire first day is considered part of the evaluation process.

We observe:

  • Comfort level

  • Social interactions

  • Ability to take breaks and recover

  • Overall enjoyment of the environment

We don’t believe a quick test tells us much. Instead, we take time to watch how dogs settle in and adjust throughout the day.

If we have questions or concerns, we’ll contact you. Our goal is always to support your dog’s well-being and make thoughtful decisions together.

How We Manage Play & Groups

Dogs are grouped thoughtfully based on:

  • Size

  • Play style

  • Comfort level

We encourage appropriate play and support calm behaviors throughout the day — like waiting at gates, greeting politely, and taking breaks when needed. This helps keep play safe, enjoyable, and sustainable for everyone.

 Questions? We’re Here.

If you’re feeling unsure, overwhelmed, or just want to talk something through, please reach out. We’re happy to help you and your dog feel prepared and supported.

We’re so glad you’re considering daycare with us, and we look forward to meeting you and your dog.