Welcoming a new dog into your life is a huge commitment. Whether you’re adopting a senior dog who needs a devoted family or a new puppy who’ll grow up to be your beloved family dog, bringing a new canine companion home can be intimidating yet exhilarating.
While you might be mentally prepared for the occasion, you have to stop and ask yourself if your home is ready to accommodate your new playmate. A home that’s safe for humans might not be safe for your furry friend. Here’s how you can prepare your household so it can be as safe and welcoming for a new dog as can be.
Start training them immediately
You should begin training your new dog as soon as they arrive at your doorstep, but take it one step at a time so that you don’t overwhelm them.
The most urgent thing they need to learn is potty training so that they don’t leave little accidents all over your home. Once they’ve mastered that, you can move on to the essential commands such as sit, stay, and down.
If you’re having trouble doing it yourself, or if your dog seems to be showing signs of aggression, you can hire a personal trainer or take your pet to a dog boot camp to make the process much easier.
Pet-proof your home
Survey your home and make sure there’s nothing in it that could potentially harm your dog. Check for sharp corners, poisonous plants and chemicals, and stray electrical wires that they could get their paws and teeth on. Get rid of any dangerous objects or store them safely away where your dog can’t get a hold of them.
Gather essential supplies
Before your dog arrives, you should already have all their necessities on hand. This includes their food and water bowls, a bed, food and treats, chew toys, a collar and a leash, and potty bags. Having them prepared and ready to go ensures that they can be as comfortable as possible when they show up to your home and you won’t have to leave your pet to go buy these materials when they need you most.
Establish a routine
Dogs thrive on a dependable daily routine. Consistency can ease your dog’s anxiety and help them adjust to their new surroundings more quickly. Make sure it’s a routine that works for you and your lifestyle. A routine that fits in with your schedule and habits will be easy to maintain on a daily basis for as long as possible.
Give them some space
Your pet might feel overwhelmed and anxious when they first step into your home. This is understandable since they’re essentially entering an unfamiliar environment.
It’s important to be patient with them and not to expect too much from them for the first few days. Give them their own personal space and allow them to explore the house on their own, with a little guidance from you. They’ll eventually warm up to you and your surroundings, but it won’t happen overnight.
Bringing a new furry friend into your life can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but it’s also a big responsibility. Before you bring your new lifelong companion home, it’s important to make sure that you have everything you need to give them a safe and comfortable life.
