Bringing Your New Dog Home
Adding a new friend to your household, although fun, is a big decision. Whether you are seeking some company or simply a new addition to your family, there are some things you should know before bringing your new dog home.
Potty First
Once you arrive home with your new dog, don’t go inside right away. Make sure your dog has had the time to relieve himself outside, so that he doesn’t make a mess in the house. The excitement of a new environment often makes dogs need to go. Although he won’t learn immediately, try to teach him that he should go to the bathroom outside as early into his new life as possible.
The Dining Area
Some dogs might vomit after a trip home, so if they have been travelling for more than 30 minutes, let them lap at ice cubes. This should put off any feelings of nausea that they might have. After bringing your dog into the home for the first time, show him where he will be able to find his food and water bowls. Don’t move these bowls for at least the first couple of months. This could cause confusion. The bowls should be thoroughly cleaned daily and fresh water should always be available for him.
The Introductions
Since your dog is now a part of your household, introduce him to every member of your family. It’s best to let each person spend a few minutes petting the dog. This will help everyone bond with the dog in their own ways. Make sure he is good with your kids and that they know how to treat him properly. Establishing a feeling of security for your new pet is essential for him to develop into a stable and happy part of the family.
Explore!
You should let your dog explore his new surroundings, but remember, keep a good watch on him. Make sure he doesn’t try eating any small objects or get into places where you don’t want him. If you don’t plan on letting him into your bedroom, keep that area off limits from the beginning. It’s easy for a dog to learn bad habits but it is very difficult to teach them to stop them!
Have Fun
Your dog will need to know where his toys are kept. Encourage him to follow you to that area and let him sniff at the toys. Rolling a ball across the floor will entice him to play. He might even fetch it for you! Make sure that you play outside with the dog. If it is too hot outside, don’t let him out for more than five minutes at a time. He could become overheated, which can be a life threatening problem. Playing or running on tiles can be dangerous for dogs. They don’t get very good traction on them as tile is usually quite slippery. Keeping your dog safe is a big responsibility that must be taken very seriously.
Keep Your Voices Down
It’s normal for a new dog to be nervous in his new surroundings. It’s best to keep all voices to a minimum. Don’t shout loudly at each other or at the television. Loud music might also frighten your new addition. If you have children, try not to let them jump and run around the dog. This could be scary to him as well. Calm voices, at least for the first few days will help to let the dog know that he is in a safe home.
Establish Good Habits Early
Many people immediately allow their new dogs on the furniture. This is fine provided he will always be allowed there. If you don’t want your dog sitting and sleeping on your couches and beds, don’t let him up on them when you bring him home. Once an invitation is given, revoking it will become an issue later. If your dog will be sleeping in an airline kennel, make sure he knows this from the first night. Dogs like continuity and schedules. They thrive on it. Consistency will help your new dog understand his boundaries and make him a well-adjusted member of your household.