Before you bring your puppy home, it's important to agree some house rules with every member of the family, especially children, as being consistent is vital to avoid confusion. Do you want your puppy to get up on the sofa for a cuddle, or is this a big no-no, will they be allowed upstairs and onto beds? Every house is different and it's up to you all to sort out what constitutes acceptable behaviour and what doesn't. But just having rules isn't enough - it's also important for everyone to apply them in a consistent manner once the puppy arrives.

You'll also want to develop your family's dog vocabulary. For example, which words will you all use to mean what during training and in general family life together? Involve any children in training and looking after the puppy as they will enjoy it and learn many different skills.

• Puppies need A LOT of sleep. When puppies are in their crate or bed, don't disturb them.
• Never tease your puppy, particularly with food or toys or they will become frustrated.
• If your puppy bites, the 'victim' should yelp loudly and then ignore it.
• Your puppy should never be given scraps from the table, which encourages begging and may upset digestion. However cute they look, you will regret this later as they quickly learn this type of begging behaviour. Use dog treats to reward good behaviour, such as sitting quietly whilst the family eats dinner.
• Decide where the puppy can and can't go inside the house. Upstairs may be out of bounds, or the dining room, etc. Puppies shouldn't be allowed to climb stairs unsupervised and stair-gates are useful to restrict access.
• Decide where the puppy will sleep - and stick to it. Smuggling pets into bed because they cry only teaches them that screaming the house down at night brings a reward!
• Young children should NEVER be alone with the puppy and shouldn't pick up the puppy without supervision and guidance.
• Your puppy shouldn't be disturbed when eating. Get between a hungry puppy and food this will cause a puppy anxiety and may result in the puppy defending his/her food with a nip.
• Draw up a rota. Who will feed and exercise the puppy and when? Training and grooming should be shared between all family members to build bonds but be consistent, each family member should do the same thing with the same rewards or the puppy will become confused.
• All family members and visitors should be warned that anything left on the floor is may be chewed by the puppy, causing damage but also risking health problems for the puppy. Homework, expensive trainers, handbags, laundry...everything should be out of reach!