Bringing Your Czechoslovakian Vlcak Puppy Home | Tips & Guide

Bringing a new puppy home

Getting ready for a new CSV puppy:

Welcoming a Czechoslovakian Vlcak into your life isn’t just exciting — it’s a major lifestyle shift. These dogs are unlike any other, and preparation is key. We’ve worked closely with other dedicated CSV owners in the community to bring you the real-life do’s and don’ts of setting up your home and life for success with this unique breed.

This page is meant to be a stepping stone for future CSV owners — whether you're counting down the days to pickup or still in the decision phase, this guide will help you make informed choices and avoid common pitfalls.

What You’ll Learn Here:

What to have set up before your pup arrives (from crates to gates and everything in between)
Toys that are CSV-approved — and the ones that are absolutely not
Home-proofing tips to prevent disaster and damage
Tips and how-to’s from experienced CSV owners — from the little things that matter (like redirecting chewing), to the big-picture strategies that will save your sanity
Real-world advice from those who’ve “been there, done that,” and learned the hard way
A starting point for training — understanding the structure, mindset, and boundaries this breed needs
Guidance on nutrition and feeding — including raw, hybrid, and what extras to avoid
Early insight into breed standards, health concerns, and long-term care goals

This isn’t just about gear — it’s about mindset.
Caring for a CSV means staying ahead, being intentional, and understanding that this is not your average puppy. We’re here to share the tools, insight, and reality checks that will help set you — and your new vlcak — up for success.

Let’s get you ready to raise one of the most intelligent, sensitive, and driven breeds out there — the right way.

First few days in it's new home:

What to Expect When Bringing Home Your New Vlcak Pup

Bringing home a new vlcak pup is an exciting time, but the first few days can be challenging for your puppy. They’ve just left their mom, siblings, and the only home they’ve ever known. As a pack-oriented breed, they naturally seek comfort and security from their pack members.

Here are five common things to be prepared for when your puppy arrives:

Separation Anxiety: Your pup may become anxious when alone as they adjust to their new environment without their pack. Expect some clinginess or distress, especially early on.

Diarrhea: Changes in environment, diet, and stress can cause loose stools. Keep an eye on this and consult your vet if it persists.

Whining and Crying: It’s normal for puppies to vocalize their discomfort or loneliness. Be patient and provide comfort, but avoid reinforcing this behavior by giving too much attention immediately.

Nervousness and Hiding: Your pup may feel overwhelmed and try to hide. Give them a safe space where they can retreat and build confidence at their own pace.

Sleep Disruption: Vlcak pups are naturally more nocturnal and may test your sanity by keeping you up at night. To help them adjust, keep them stimulated and active during the day while allowing healthy nap times. It’s okay to gently wake them if they’re sleeping too long in the daytime—this helps them learn to regulate their sleep schedule in line with yours.

Understanding these behaviors will help you support your new vlcak pup through their important adjustment period.

Recommendations:

Bringing a new vlcak pup home is a big adjustment for both of you, so it’s highly recommended to take some time off work if possible. This allows you to bond with your puppy and focus on the important foundational steps that set the stage for a well-adjusted dog.

During this time, focus on:

Building a Relationship: Get to know your puppy’s personality, likes, and dislikes. Spend quality time together to build trust and security.
Familiarizing Them with Their New Environment: Help your pup explore and get comfortable with your home and family members, making everything feel safe and welcoming.
Setting Boundaries: Establish clear rules early, especially around crate and kennel time. Consistency helps your puppy learn what is expected and creates a sense of structure.
Taking Breaks: Puppies need plenty of rest to grow and stay healthy. Make sure to balance play, training, and downtime.

Taking this initial time and care will make the transition smoother for both you and your puppy and lay the groundwork for a lifelong, happy relationship.

The Puppy Blues:

What No One Talks About (But Should)

Bringing home a new puppy — especially a high-energy, high-drive breed like the Czechoslovakian Vlcak — is exciting, emotional, and... sometimes overwhelming.

It’s completely normal to question everything in the first few days (or even weeks).
You may find yourself asking:

“Did I make the right choice?”
“Why is this so hard?”
“Am I cut out for this?”

This phase is often referred to as the “puppy blues” — and it can come from a mix of sleep deprivation, routine changes, emotional overload, and the pressure of doing everything “right.” You’re not alone in feeling this. Many new puppy owners go through it.

What You Might Experience:

Exhaustion from broken sleep (especially in those first few nights)
Guilt or frustration when training doesn’t go as planned
Moments of regret or second-guessing
A feeling of isolation or stress if you don’t have support

What You Need to Know:

This phase passes.
With time, consistency, structure, and support — your pup will adjust, and so will you.

Lean on your community. Reach out to other Vlcak owners, trainers, and us here at CZCAN Vlcaks. We’ve all been there, and we’re here to help you through it. No judgment. Just support.

The journey to raising a strong, confident, bonded Vlcak isn’t always easy — but it is worth it.