So you’ve adopted or purchased a new dog and he’s coming home with you today. The first week you and your new dog spend together is both exciting and a little unsettling You can make the transition a bit easier for you and your new family member with a little advanced preparation.
Before The Trip Home
Have a family meeting.
A dog is a big commitment…make sure everyone is on board. Topics should include:
- Who’s the primary caretaker?
- What are the house rules?
- Where will the dog sleep?
- What’s the schedule for walks, meals, playtime, training? And who’s turn is it?
Stock Up On Supplies
- Leash & Collar, ID Tag
- Crate or Gates (if needed)
- Bed &Bowls
- Food &Treats
- Toys
- Grooming Supplies
- Waste Bags
- Cleaners
Ready the House
Determine where the dog’s crate, bed, food and supplies will be placed. Pick a room that’s a center of activity in your household, so your dog won’t feel isolated, and be sure it’s one with easy-to-clean floors. Kitchens are a good choice; you can isolate them with baby gates if needed. Make sure you remove anything that you don’t want chewed on or soiled. Take special care to remove anything that could hurt your dog–medicines, chemicals, certain plants, etc.
In a perfect world, you or another adult can take a few days off from work to get your new pup or dog settled in. Now is the time to begin all-important training. BONUS: These first few days together are the perfect time to bond and bonding is a key to training.
This is also a great time to arrange for dog walkers and or doggie daycare. Ask your neighbors, family and friends for their recommendations.
Plan the car ride
Find someone to come along. Both puppies and adult dogs can get a bit nervous in a car. Your helper can help comfort and keep Fido from hopping into the driver’s seat. If your new dog is used to a crate, go for it. Just remember to secure the environment.
Home Sweet Home
Keep it calm the first few days
For either a puppy or dog, being taken to a new place that is loud, and full of strangers can be overpowering. The first day or two, keep the mood low-key and calm.
Start your training
The earlier you start, the faster and easier it will be to teach good manners and the better the lessons will stick. The two most important things to teach your dog are:
- house training
- getting comfortable around people and other dogs
Set up the routine
A routine is key to house training and provides reassurance for your dog. Come up with a schedule for walks, meals, exercise and playtime–and stick to it!
Get your dog license
It’s the law, and will get your pooch back home should he become lost. Go online, check with your local police precinct or contact local animal care and control to find out how to get your dog licensed.
Find a vet
Trips to the vet should be a pleasant experience or, at the least, a tolerable one. Ask around for referrals, and schedule your first appointment. Your dog will need a check-up and possibly some vaccinations.
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Long Story Short: The first few weeks with the newest member of your family will be a huge period of adjustment for the two of you. Make it easier for both with a bit of proactive planning and a team ready to help.
