Raising a puppy is a challenge for both new and experienced dog owners. But it can also be an exciting, life-changing experience. The goal is to provide your puppy with a safe environment, but there is a fine line between safety and being overprotective.

To help your pup develop into a happy, healthy, well-adjusted adult dog, the American Kennel Club offers a few tips for puppy rearing.

4 Show your puppy around — It’s important your puppy can find his crate, food and water bowl, and where he should be going to the bathroom. Let him explore with supervision, but don’t give him the run of the house on day one

4 Don’t play too rough — Puppies love playtime, but it is important that they learn the appropriate level of rough play at a young age. Your puppy needs to learn her manners when it comes to playing with other people as well as other animals.

4 Training — Make sure you teach your pup good manners when she is young. Training the basic commands as a puppy will go a long way throughout her adult years. Training classes can be extremely helpful and are lots of fun for you and your new pup.