You must select a good puppy, depending on your needs.  If you live in a tiny apartment you wouldn't go out and buy a Great Dane.  You would pick a poodle, wiener dogs or something smaller.  Much like a nursery, you must have a place set up for your new puppy that they can call their own.  Remember that your puppy has left his siblings and will be missing the security and warmth of the mother.

It is important to get good puppy food and not the cheap fillers that many of the pet foods have.  While their foods are priced more attractive, it may be more harmful to your puppy's health, because it does not have the supplements of meat and vegetables.  Actually dry foods are more cost efficient, because soft or canned foods are made up about 65% water. When dry feeding serve at room temperature and always have fresh water available at all times.   Do not free feed! Feed the puppy once in the morning and once at suppertime.  Allow the puppy to eat for 10 minutes and take away any food that is left. 

It is very important to take your puppy outside about 10 - 15 minutes after they have finished eating.  This is the greatest way to start house training and it will  make it easier for both you and your dog. Buying a crate is a great idea, and putting a little warm blanket or bed inside.   They will curl up in their bed by themselves , either to sleep or to just take a break.  It is their "own space" and they will feel more secure then.

When it is bed time, take them outside once more and let them do their business.  Then put them in their cages, but before you close the gate, give them a tiny treat.  They will associate bedtime with treats, and soon they will be running into their crates. This way you know that the puppy is save from getting into trouble, while you are sleeping.  They may cry for the first few nights, but it will be worth it in the long run.

Puppies love to "chew"!!!  Hard nylon toys are a safe bet.  Be sure to find toys that are durable products and will withstand the tiny sharp teeth that puppies have.  If you find your puppy chewing on something that they shouldn't be  just say "NO" in a stern voice and take it away from them.  Then take them to a toy that they can chew.  Chew toys will provide hours of entertainment for your puppy, and will distract him from your household items like shoes, chairs, etc.