Top Tips for Caring for a New Dog at Home

Indeed, the very first moments when a dog arrives at its new home are the most crucial. It's a time when pet owners have a lot to prepare, and it's an excellent opportunity to establish rules and build a bond. Miss this window of opportunity, and you might find yourself regretting it later on.

What Should You Pay Attention to When Your Dog Arrives at Its New Home?

Firstly, the preparation before bringing your dog home is nonnegotiable. Make sure to gather all the essentials your furry friend will need. Before you bring your dog home, it's advisable to have a vet checkup to ensure they are in good health before settling in. From the moment you step through the door with your new companion, your life as a pet parent is about to embark on a new journey...

Step 1: Begin by acquainting your dog with the home. It's best to use a leash to maintain control, preventing them from getting overly excited and running around recklessly. This will also help them feel that the entire house is their domain and they can behave as they wish.

Moreover, young puppies cannot hold their bladder for long. They may end up urinating everywhere due to excitement. If a spot has a urine scent, they might continue to use that same spot, which could hinder your efforts to train them for proper potty habits. After you've shown your dog around, lead them back to their crate or pen, establishing boundaries.

Step 2: Feeding your dog is another critical aspect. Ensure you feed your dog at regular intervals and in appropriate portions. Dogs have delicate stomachs, so don't just give them anything you eat. When switching their food, do it gradually, allowing them to adjust to the new food over time. Aim for three to four meals a day, as this will help their digestive system process the food more effectively.

Step 3: When your dog misbehaves, avoid overreacting with harsh scoldings. Puppies are still developing, and it's normal for them not to be able to hold their bladder like adult dogs. Don't get angry or yell at them for having an accident. Instead, teach them the right way to behave and where they should go to the bathroom.

Make sure the dog's bathroom area is not too close to their crate. If your dog is particularly clean, they might prefer to go elsewhere if the bathroom is too near. When your dog goes to the bathroom in the correct spot, reward them to reinforce the behavior. If you've named your dog, you can use their name during playtime or feeding to help them associate the name with being called. Over time, they'll understand that's how you address them.

Dogs may bark continuously upon arrival due to unfamiliar surroundings. However, it's best to ignore their barking. If you respond every time, they may learn that calling out is a way to get attention, which can be a bad habit. Ignore them, and they'll eventually realize that barking doesn't work and will settle down to sleep. Raising a dog is not an easy task, especially a young one, which is prone to illnesses. If you're considering bringing a dog into your life, make sure to do so after thorough research. After all, once you adopt them, their future is in your hands.