Welcome Home – A Guide to Thriving with Your New Dog
Bringing a new dog home is a thrilling adventure. The first few days can be a whirlwind of excitement, adjustments, and maybe even a few “what have I done?” moments. Don’t worry; this is completely normal. The key is patience – with yourself and your new four-legged friend. Even the most confident dogs need time to adjust to their new surroundings.
Your new dog doesn’t realize they just hit the jackpot. To them, everything is new, strange, and possibly a little terrifying. Like humans, dogs handle stress differently. Some will stroll in like they own the place, while others might need a bit of gentle encouragement (and possibly some bribery in the form of treats). Here are some things that might be stressful for them during those first few days:
- New sights, sounds, and smells (your fridge is suddenly fascinating!)
- Meeting new people and possibly other pets
- Adjusting to a new routine
Tips for a Smooth Transition
Set yourself, and your pup, up for success with these strategies:
Stay Close – Try not to leave your new dog alone for the first 48 hours. Think of it as an orientation period where they’re learning the ropes.
Create a Safe Haven – Set up a cozy retreat, like a covered crate with soft bedding in a quiet area. This gives your dog a “chill zone” to observe from a safe distance. It’s like their VIP lounge!
Potty Training 101 – Take them outside frequently and throw in a mini celebration, a treat, when they get it right.
Strategic Gates and Pick-Up Duty – Use baby gates to block off no-go zones, and do a quick sweep to remove any rugs, shoes, or other tempting chewables. If you don’t want it slobbered on, put it away!
Toys, Glorious Toys – Stock up on chew toys and puzzles. Pro tip: Freeze some for extra entertainment. A busy dog is a happy (and less destructive) dog.
Treat Stash – Keep jars of treats around the house so you can reinforce good behavior in real time. Bonus: They’re also handy for trading when your pup decides your sock is their new favorite toy.
Building Trust: The Art of Becoming Your Dog’s BFF
Dogs thrive on predictability and they like knowing what to expect from their humans. The more consistent you are, the faster they’ll settle in.
If Your Dog is Barking Like a Canine Karaoke Machine:
- Identify what’s triggering them and minimize exposure.
- Drown out scary noises with calming music, white noise, or the soothing sounds of your favorite TV show.
- Cover windows if they’re barking at the outside world’s endless drama.
- Breathe. Some behaviors fade as they get used to their new home.
Ask for Help!
Even the most seasoned dog lovers sometimes need backup. If you’re struggling, reach out to a certified behavior professional. The RHS offers a number of behaviour training classes that might be just the solution you are looking for.
Bringing home a new dog is an adventure filled with wagging tails, learning curves, and unconditional love. Stay patient, keep a sense of humor, and remember—you’re not alone in this journey. You’ve got this!
