Puppies sleep eighteen hours a day. Most behavior problems in the first months are a tired puppy who was not put to bed.
Morning
Out the moment the puppy wakes. Breakfast in the crate or a slow feeder. Out again fifteen minutes later. A short play session, then a nap by mid-morning.
Midday and afternoon
Lunch until about four months, then two meals. Every waking hour gets a potty break. Every hour of activity gets an hour or two of crate rest.
Evening
Dinner by six so the last potty break is empty. Calm play, a chew, and lights out at the same time each night.
