You’ve found the dog you want to be part of your family. Although you’re ready to begin your life with your new furry friend, your dog is entering a strange environment and may not react the way you expected.
Abused or abandoned dogs have to learn to trust humans, which takes time. The keyword is patience! Most dogs need at least a few weeks and sometimes longer to get to know their family and adjust to their new home. Before you adopt, plan ahead.
Think of the Most Important Traits
Decide if you want a large, medium, or small breed, and choose a breed you can handle easily. Do you want a puppy or an older dog? It’s best to adopt a pet that easily adapts to your lifestyle. If you have a family or spend a lot of time outdoors a dog that’s more high energy is likely to be compatible.
Some dogs love playing with kids, and others prefer adults. A smaller lap dog may be the best choice if you prefer a quiet lifestyle. If you have a trip planned, it would be best to adopt when you return home. Your new family member needs time to adjust with as little stress as possible.
The Gender Difference
If you already have one dog, some trainers suggest selecting a dog of the opposite sex. Adopting a dog of the opposite gender reduces the likelihood of one dog becoming territorial aggressive. When the second dog isn’t the same gender, the transition may be less stressful for the dogs and their human pack.
Essential Vetting
You should schedule spay/neuter surgery as soon as your vet recommends it. You may schedule microchipping at your first vet visit. Microchipping is a simple procedure that is often done simultaneously with spaying or neutering. Your vet injects the microchip about the size of a grain of rice underneath the skin between the shoulder blades. Some vets will microchip your pet during a routine visit.
Not all veterinary practices follow the same protocol for spay/neuter. Some vets will instruct owners to withhold food and water after midnight before the procedure and drop their pets off early in the morning for surgery. Others prefer to admit pets the night before surgery for pre-op bloodwork, especially if the pet is older or has a pre-existing condition. Most pets fully recover in 10 to 14 days, which is the length of time it usually takes the incision to heal
You should limit your pet’s activity during the recovery time. Too much activity could cause the incision to swell or open up. Too much running, jumping, or strenuous play could interfere with healing.
Best Food and Supplies for Your Dog
High-quality dog food can help keep your pet healthy. Your veterinarian may have suggestions about the best food for your dog. Some foods that are healthy for humans are dangerous for dogs. Plants, cleaning solutions, and some kid’s toys can be harmful. Dog-proof your home before your new pet moves in.
For your new family member, you’ll need a leash, adjustable collar, ID tags, food, bowls, toys, treats, and a comfortable bed. Your home also needs to be a safe place for your new dog.
Bringing Your Dog Home
Picking up your dog early in the day is a good suggestion. Find out when your pup was fed and stay on the same food and schedule for a few days or until you get different instructions from your veterinarian. You may not know how your dog will react to riding in the car. It’s a good idea to bring another person along and confine your dog in a crate or with a seatbelt harness. When you get home, take your dog to the spot where he’ll relieve himself. When he goes, praise him and offer a treat.
It may take weeks before your dog feels comfortable in its new surroundings, but eventually, you’ll settle into a routine. If your new pet has been in a shelter with a lot of noise and distractions, adjusting to the new environment usually takes about three days. There are exceptions to the rule. Some dogs settle in right away. Bedding or toys from the dog’s former foster or home can be comforting. You’ll have to decide where your dog will eat and sleep and ensure everyone is on the same page to avoid confusing your pup. Puppies are naturally curious, so you may want to invest in a puppy playpen. You can confine an older dog to certain areas of your home with gates.
You may place your dog’s bed in your bedroom. However, if your dog prefers another quiet place, you can put the bed there. A dog crate is an excellent investment. A crate offers a safe and comfortable sanctuary to relax and sleep. If your dog is still growing, you should choose a crate based on its size at maturity. Everyone, including your dog, should have a soft, comfortable bed. If you’re crate training, choose a bed that will fit into the crate.
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