How to bring your new dog home? Bringing a new dog into your life is an exciting event, but it’s also one that can be stressful for both you and your pup until you’ve settled into a routine. It can take days, months or longer for you and your pet to adjust to each other and for your dog to acclimate to your home, especially if your new pet has lived in multiple homes or shelters in the past.
How to bring your new dog home?
Bringing a new dog into your home is an exciting step, and it requires some preparation to ensure a smooth and comfortable transition for your dog and your family. Here's a guide to help you through this process:
Prepare Your Home
Make your home dog-safe: Dogs, especially puppies, love to explore and chew on everything.
Remove hazardous materials: Place chemicals, medications, poisonous plants (such as oleander, tulips), harmful foods (chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, xylitol-containing gum), and small objects that can be swallowed out of your dog's reach.
Protect electrical cords: Cover or secure cords to prevent your dog from chewing on them.
Close doors and windows: Make sure all outlets are secure to prevent your dog from escaping.
Use baby gates: Constrain your dog to certain areas of the house at first, especially rooms you don't want him to enter.
Clean the house: Thoroughly vacuum carpets and floors, especially if there were previous pets, to remove odors that might prompt a new dog to mark his territory.
Providing the basic supplies
Sturdy food and water bowls: Preferably stainless steel or ceramic, and heavy enough to prevent tipping over.
Dog food: Start with the same type of food your dog was fed at the animal shelter or breeder to avoid digestive upset. You can gradually change the diet after consulting your veterinarian.
Comfortable bed: Choose a bed that fits your dog's size, provides support, and is easy to clean. Place it in a quiet, draft-free area.
Crate (optional but recommended): A crate can be a safe and comfortable place for your dog and aids in toilet training. Choose a crate large enough for your dog to stand and turn around in.
Varied toys: Choose safe toys appropriate for your dog's size, including chew toys, interactive toys, and fetch toys. Rotate the toys regularly to keep them interested.
Training rewards: To reinforce positive behavior.
Planning the arrival day
Choose the right time: Try to bring your dog on a holiday or when you have a few days to devote to them. This will give them time to acclimate to you and their new environment.
If your puppy is young, have wet wipes and a cleaner in the car for any accidents.
Put your dog in a crate or car seat belt for safety.
Take him to the designated toileting area as soon as you arrive home before entering.
Training and Socialization
Start training early: The earlier you start, the better. Focus on basic commands like "sit," "stay," and "come."
Positive Reinforcement: Use rewards and praise to reinforce good behavior.
Socialization: Introduce your dog to new people, other pets, and different environments in a safe and positive way to help him become a confident and sociable dog.
Benefits of Bringing Your New Dog into Your Home
Encouraging Exercise: Dogs require regular walks and play, which motivates their owners to engage in daily physical activity. This contributes to improved physical and mental health and reduces BMI.
Improved Cardiovascular Health: Regular physical activity with your dog can contribute to improved heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.
Increased Social Interaction: Walking your dog often leads to conversations with other dog owners, helping to build new friendships and increase social interaction.
Improved Social Skills for Children: Children who have dogs are often more sociable and less aggressive, and learn the importance of commitment and responsibility.
Reduced Risk of Allergies and Asthma in Children: Some studies have shown that exposure to dogs at an early age may reduce children's risk of developing allergies and asthma.
Ability to Help with Some Household Chores (After Training): With proper training, dogs can help with simple tasks like closing doors or fetching toys.
