Are you planning to adopt or plan to sign the papers to bring your newly adopted dog home? Congratulations! You are doing an amazing deed and surely, your new dog will show their appreciation with a lot of love and new friendship.
But wait! Before you bring them home, you have to prepare ahead and make sure they are well-welcomed in a safe, comfortable environment. Here are some tips you should follow when doing so:
- Prepare your home
Before bringing your newly adopted dog home, you will need to prepare the house and buy the correct supplies.
Be sure that you prepare the following:
- Collar, leash, and ID tag
- Crate and dog gates
- Comfortable bed
- Food and treats
- Grooming supplies, waste bags, cleaners
- Dog toys like the ones you find from Peggasus Pets
Once you have the supplies ready, dog-proof your home and remove any hazardous items or valuables the dog may chew. Know where to place their food bowls, beds, and where to store all their pet supplies. Also, prepare the house rules so the family and dog will know where to go, what to do, and how to keep the home clean and safe.
- When your dog arrives
When your dog will arrive, here are what to do during the first day:
- Prepare for the car ride home and bring towels in case your dog will get carsick. Bring them straight home and do NOT have any pitstops or welcome parties to prevent your dog from being overwhelmed.
- Allow your dog to sniff around, bringing them to the yard and showing him where to potty.
- Introduce your dog to the family and any other pets outside, slowly and one at a time. You can offer a treat for the dog to associate the family with positive things. Do NOT hug, kiss, pick up, or pat the dog too much, as this can scare them.
- Stay at home, or at least close to home, when together. Don’t go on major travels and road trips, as you have to learn what your dog behaves before taking them to a whole new environment. Give them quiet time as they explore the house, following your dog’s pace.
- Establish their routine
Now, have a schedule and routine your dog can follow, which is comforting to them. Figure out when they should sleep, when to eat, their daily walks, and of course, playtime! Make sure that you take time out of the day to spend time with them and to expend their energy on walks and playtime so as not to get bored or anxious.
- Build your relationship
Lastly, be patient and build your relationship with playtime, training sessions, and cuddle sessions as you rest before bedtime!
Wrapping It Up
It’s exciting to bring a new dog into your home and the family’s life. But to prevent stress from a newly adopted dog, you have to be prepared with supplies and the time to give them love as they adjust to their new environment.