One of the most rewarding experiences many people look forward to is getting a dog. It can be a pretty exciting experience to adopt and bring a new dog home. However, the adopted dog might not be as excited as the new owner.
Bringing an adopted dog home, however, comes with its challenges and experience. The new owner needs to give the dog time and help her through the transition process. Also, bear in mind that dogs have a consistent routine like humans. As a result, one needs to keep up with this routine to smooth the transition process.
Your adopted dog might be an old dog or a puppy. An individual has to offer them time to adjust as humans also take time to get accustomed to a new environment. Here are tested points with which dog owners can help their new dog adjust to their home.
- Start Slowly.
Your new dog needs time to adjust to the new environment. As a result, one needs to take it slowly with the dog. It will be nice if the dog can have a buddy to take her through the house and environment. Exploration of the house and everything around should be at her pace. Remember, this is new and unfamiliar territory for her.
Make sure not to rush the dog and move at her pace. Getting used to the environment could be exhausting for them. This is especially true for dogs that came from a shelter where the norm is stress and noise. A quiet, cozy, and convenient place will be strange to such a dog. Avoid excessive stimulation of the dog in the first couple of days. Some dogs might prefer to explore at their pace, while others might need attention. Make sure you are there for her.
Also, your dog might not be comfortable with you at first. Remember, you are still a stranger, and everything is strange – the noise, faces, smell, environment, and sight. Make sure to try and make her comfortable by working at her pace.
- Get all Essentials.
One of the first steps you should take is to get the necessary accessories as a new dog parent. One needs to get the essential and top pet supplies like toys, blankets, etc., that will make your dog comfortable. You do not have to drain your pocket to make your dog comfortable. Make sure to know their personality, likes, and dislikes first before investing in dog accessories. A dog that chews and destroys his toy will surely be the wrong candidate for lots of stuffed toys.
Here are the recommended supplies you can buy for your dog.
- Food
- Crate
- Water and food bowls
- Leash and collar
- An ID tag
- Assorted treats
- Varieties of toys
- Dog shampoo
- Have a Routine.
One best way to help your dog adapt is by establishing a routine. If your dog is coming from the shelter, chances are they already have a set-out routine of bedtime, food time, and the likes. They do not like living spontaneously as the structure they are probably used to. When these dogs do not know what to expect, it creates stress, which will not allow them to be comfortable as the thought of the unknown and feelings could be overwhelming.
As a result, make sure to establish and fix them on routine. This should start as soon as the dog comes in. The time for waking up, feeding, going for a walk, and training should follow a similar pattern. In time, they will follow the way which will become part of their daily life.
- Give the dog her space.
One of the most effective ways to help your dog is to make her comfortable and set her on a routine. This means a personal bed space, a private spot where she can retreat when there is an overwhelming feeling. Like humans, pups also need some space to retreat and recharge at times, especially when they are in a strange environment.
With this, if your dog is not responding to all your attempt to play and cuddle, give her some space. Also, try giving her treats to reconfigure the brain to make her believe that you are the source of good things. With this, you can build trust.
- Don’t Skip the Introductions.
Your dog must meet everyone that lives in the house. This does not only involve humans but pets that live at home. It is safe to assume that you have an established family where everyone knows each other and pets. Make sure to start slowly and do this as it can go a long way to make your dog feel welcome. The introduction of the dog to each person should be gentle and not prolonged.
Conclusion
Bringing a new dog home is an exciting experience that many people often look forward to. However, for the process to be smooth, one usually needs a lot of preparations. Besides, it is essential to get many things right for the dog to have a smooth transition. This is a detailed guide that will help you point you in the right direction on how to handle the adopted dog.
