Bringing a new dog home is an incredibly exciting time. But you'll also need to be prepared to make the transition as smooth as possible. You're welcoming a new family member, and this new addition will likely mean significant changes to your daily routines. Because a successful transition requires preparation and patience, we're going to go through how to set up your dog for success right from the start.
Think about how your dog is feeling when you first pick them up. They might feel excited or nervous, especially if they've come from a shelter environment. The car ride itself may also be a new experience, potentially making them feel anxious.
Having a blanket or dog toy that already has the scent of home can help to calm your dog's anxiety by giving them something familiar.
Dogs should be restrained properly using a safety harness or by traveling in a dog crate. This keeps both them and you safer during travel. Consider using a blanket or old towel in case they experience motion sickness. Providing a safe and comfortable space for your dog during travel is essential.
When you first arrive home, give your dog a quiet space that is just for them, even if it's just for the first couple of days. Ideally, this should be a room where you can set up their dog bed, water bowl, and some chew toys. For puppies especially, make this space be a room that is easy to clean up, just in case of an accident.
Don't feel bad leaving your dog in this space initially. Allowing them to decompress before meeting everyone will help them acclimate to their new surroundings. This dedicated space will act as a sanctuary for them.
Before you bring your adorable new dog home, you should be planning for your puppy’s first vet visit. Register with a local vet to make sure you’re prepared and when you have your new puppy, arrange an appointment and let them know it's a new puppy health check. Ideally choose a vet that also offers after hours care.
Dogs explore the world with their mouths. So before bringing a dog home, go through each room and remove anything that could be dangerous for your dog to chew. This is an important step in creating a safe environment.
Tuck away electrical cords and loose wires.
Remove any plants that are toxic to dogs.
Store household chemicals safely and securely.
If children are in the home, put away toys to prevent choking hazards or possessive behavior.
Although you might want to shower them with affection right away, introductions should be done gradually. A new environment can feel chaotic to your dog. Too much excitement might make them feel even more overwhelmed.
Keep the environment calm and relaxed. Ask family members not to overwhelm your dog. It might be better to have people quietly sitting on the floor while your dog comes to them first. Forcing interactions before your dog is ready can create a negative association.
Let your dog set the pace when it comes to petting and playing. Teach children how to pet a dog gently, focusing on the chest or back rather than reaching over their head.
Establishing a routine helps your dog acclimate more easily to their new life with you. They will learn what is expected, bringing consistency into an otherwise strange and new environment. Consistency from day one is key.
Potty Breaks: Immediately take your dog to their designated potty area. Reward any success they have going potty in this spot. This establishes good habits from the start. Your dog is likely housetrained, and with the stress of a new environment, accidents can easily occur if not given immediate potty opportunities.
Feeding Schedule: Feed your dog at approximately the same times daily. This also helps regulate their potty breaks. Use a designated food bowl for your dog's meals.
Walks: Even short walks help them acclimate to the new neighborhood and provide much-needed mental and physical exercise. Plus, exploring on a leash helps solidify your bond. Start with a martingale collar for better control if your dog tends to pull on the leash.
Training: Begin with basic commands such as "sit," "stay," and "come." These foundational commands provide structure and help establish communication with your dog. Enrolling in training classes can further enhance your dog's obedience.
Bringing a new dog home when you already have a resident dog can sometimes require a bit more planning. Start with neutral territory, like a dog park, and keep both dogs on a leash. Let dogs interact on-leash in an open area, gradually letting them spend more off-leash time together once you see how they respond.
Separate Bowls: Feed your dogs in separate areas to prevent competition or guarding behavior. Having multiple water bowls can also help avoid any conflicts.
Individual Attention: Spend quality time with each dog individually, reassuring them that they’re all still loved equally. Consider engaging in separate play training sessions to strengthen your bond with each dog.
Patience Is Key: Watch their body language closely for any signs of tension and intervene if needed. Just like humans, all dogs are different, and integrating them can be a gradual process. Be patient. Give them time to adjust to each other.
Focus on making the first day as stress-free as possible. Keep the environment quiet and let your dog explore their safe space. Start building a routine by taking them to their potty area, offering them food and water in designated spots, and going for a short walk.
The adjustment period can vary greatly from dog to dog. Some dogs settle in within a few days, while others may take several weeks or even months. Be patient and understanding throughout the process.
Make sure they have a comfortable dog bed in a quiet area. You can also place a blanket or towel that carries your scent in their sleeping space. If they whine or bark, avoid rushing to comfort them immediately, as this can create a pattern of seeking attention.
Bringing a new dog home is one of the most rewarding experiences. By being patient and prepared, you set the stage for a smooth transition for both you and your dog, setting the foundation for years of happiness and companionship.
