In this video, Amber Burkhalter from APDT provides a comprehensive guide for bringing a new puppy home, covering essential steps for a successful start. First, she emphasizes the importance of initial vet visits to ensure the puppy’s health, a proper diet, and vaccinations. Amber highlights safe socialization to support the puppy’s mental health, as well as steps to prevent them from getting lost by using collars with ID tags. She advises puppy-proofing the home, such as securing cords and small objects, and creating a safe, accessible play space. Amber also explains crate training techniques, suggesting the crate be in a family-accessible, calm area to create a secure environment. For potty training, she recommends consistency by taking the puppy to the same outdoor spot each time. Finally, Amber stresses the importance of positive reinforcement training, focusing on desired behaviors rather than punishments, to help the puppy grow into a well-behaved, happy family member.