Useful Tips on Dog Adoption
Useful Tips on Dog Adoption
No other animal brings as much joy into a person’s life as a dog. They are loyal, loving, and happy to see their companions come home. If you think of getting a pet, hands down, adopting a dog is the best decision.
But before you go out and adopt your new friend, here are some useful tips on dog adoption to help make the transition as convenient as possible.
Make them feel they’re safe in their new surroundings
Dogs are usually timid when they first arrive in a new home, so it’s important to make them feel safe and comfortable. This means not overwhelming them with too much at once and always being patient when adjusting.
Did You Know? It’ll take up to three weeks for a pup to feel comfortable in their new home. During this time, it’s your job as their companion to make them feel comfortable, i.e., let them explore at their own pace and give them treats.
Set rules and boundaries
Dogs thrive on routine – you can teach them the dos and don’ts just like you teach a little human. Be consistent with your commands, don’t forget to reward them when they follow your instruction. This helps them comprehend what’s expected of them in their new home. Establishing rules and boundaries from day one will help avoid unwanted behaviours.
Prepare a ton of patience
When adopting a dog, understand that it will take time to get used to their new surroundings and people. Be patient with them when exploring their new home and never yell or hit them as a form of discipline. It’ll only make them scared and confused.
Did You Know? Hitting a dog as punishment for bad behaviour causes long-term psychological damage and makes them aggressive? In other words, it never works.
Crate train your dog
Some dogs feel safest when you give them their own “den” or place to retreat to, so crate training is beneficial when introducing a new dog into your home. But be careful because crate training is not for every dog or dog breed. If you’re unsure, talk to your vet. If your vet says a crate can be beneficial, start by putting their food and water dishes in the crate, and then gradually move them towards closing the door for short periods. That’ll help them get comfortable with being in there.
Warning: Don’t force your dog into the crate if they don’t want to go in. It’ll only make them more resistant to the idea.
Feed them on a schedule
One way to help a dog feel more at ease in his new home is to feed him on a schedule. Doing so creates a sense of stability and predictability, something all dogs prefer. Remember that dogs are creatures of habit and like to know what’s happening next.
Take them for walks
Walks are a great way to help your dog burn off some energy and get used to his new neighbourhood. Start with short walks and gradually increase the distance as he becomes more comfortable. Always make sure to have him on a leash, as you don’t want him getting lost or into trouble.
Some first-time dog companions don’t realize the value of taking their four-legged buddies for a walk – it’s not just about giving them some exercise but also a way to relieve themselves and socialize with other dogs.
Socialize your dog
And since we’re talking about helping your dog “socialize,” it’s important to get them out and meet new people and other dogs. Putting them on a leash means you’re in control of the situation. It’ll help them become more confident and well-adjusted.
Dogs that don’t get out much often become anxious, which usually leads to all sorts of behavioural issues. So, make sure to take your dog out for a spin at least once a day.
Consider a dog training class
If you’re having trouble with some of the basic obedience commands or your dog is exhibiting some bad behaviours, a dog training class may be the way to go. It’s a great way for your pup to learn some new things.
Did You Know? Training helps you understand how your dog behaves and how to respond to it. Dog training class also benefits the parent as it teaches you how to control your dog better and deal with difficult situations.
Create a safe environment for your dog
Make sure you create an environment as stress-free as possible for your pup and remove any temptation for him to get into trouble.
Cover furniture legs, electrical cords, and other household items your dog might be tempted to chew on with some bitter apple spray or a citrus-scented deterrent. And always make sure their food and water dishes are in a place they can’t reach.
Keep an eye on your dog, use a fence or crate when you cannot watch him, and don’t leave anything valuable lying around.
Make all your rooms dog-friendly. This is helpful when you’re not around to look after them. The room must be free of hazards like poisonous plants, electrical cords, and anything your dog might choke on or destroy.
Schedule a visit to the vet
Last but not least, make sure you get your dog checked by a veterinarian within the first few weeks of adopting them. Some dogs may look healthy on the outside, but you can never be too sure. It’s the only way to find out if they’re in good health and if there are no underlying problems.
These useful tips on dog adoption don’t necessarily require a Herculean effort, but they make life much easier for you and your new dog. Follow them, and you’ll be on your way to creating a lasting bond with your furry friend.
