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Tips For Introducing A New Puppy Or Dog To Your Home

Yellow Labrador puppy running.

Bringing your new furry companion home for the first time is incredibly exciting, especially when it’s your first time as a pet parent.

In all the excitement, you’ve probably started preparing for their arrival. Maybe you’ve done a little (or a lot) of shopping for toys and other pet supplies, and you may have even stocked up your pantry with all sorts of tasty doggy treats.

Whether you are well prepared to welcome your newest member of the family or you’re just getting on top of the to-do list, there are still a few tips and tricks you need to know that will help to make things easier for you and your pup.

So, let’s start you off on the right foot (or paw) introducing your new dog or puppy into your home.

Tips For Introducing A New Dog Or Puppy Into Your Home

Prepare For Their Arrival

You’ve got all their toys, a new food bowl, water bowl, even a super cute leash that matches their collar. But before your new pup has arrived home, prepare for arrival by creating a small area of the house that’s dedicated entirely to them. This space will include their crate, more on this topic below, and other supplies and goodies.

It’s also advisable to get a baby gate to section off the area if there are no doors to keep wandering or mischievous puppies in one place.

Keeping your dog’s possessions in one spot is especially important if you bring in a pooch with a history of resource guarding shared toys. Congested or cluttered areas may trigger a possessive response in your pup, which is more likely if you have other animals in the home already. By letting the dog know that this is their space, you’ll help them to feel secure and will help them adjust to their new home faster.

Give Your New Dog Or Puppy Time

Your new family member will most likely be a little frightened when they first come into your home. After all, they’re in a completely new and unfamiliar environment. That’s why it’s essential to take things a little slower with your new pup for the first couple of days. Let your new dog get to know you, your family, the house and come to understand their new routine. By giving them space, it will allow them to gain confidence.

As is to be expected, toilet training will take some time. So please do your best to be patient with your new best friend as they learn the ropes and understand the rules.

Bernadoodle puppy sitting.
Jingle, the Bernadoodle, demonstrating his sit, during a Private, In-Home, Puppy Training Visit

Stick To A Routine

Whether older, middle-aged, or a puppy who’s just learning, dogs are creatures of habit and thrive on having a straightforward routine. Help your dog feel more secure by repeating the same activities every day and at the same time. Their schedule should include

  • Mealtimes
  • Bathroom breaks
  • Daily exercise or walks
  • Bedtime

Keeping their daily routine, the same will allow for continuity in the home and keep you both on track when dealing with accidents, monitoring their food and water consumption, and knowing when it’s time for the rest.

Let Them Rest

When they bring home their new dog or puppy, some people are concerned about sleeping. That’s completely normal!

Chances are your pup has just come from a noisier environment. Perhaps they had a lot of noisy littermates, or they were in a stressful environment like a shelter. Either way, after their big journey to your home, meeting everyone and no doubt getting lots of love and TLC is enough to leave any dog exhausted. So let them rest and take it as a compliment that your home is so comforting that they can’t resist a nap or two.

Spirit Dog Pet Training says it’s more important to pay attention to how your dog acts when they’re awake. For example, if they’re showing signs of illness or lethargy when playing, it might be good to contact your local veterinarian to make sure nothing is amiss. On the other hand, if they are napping, they are recuperating and may need time to feel like themselves.

Be Prepared For Diet Adjustments

No doubt, the first few meals you serve to your new canine pal may not go as smoothly as you’d expect. In the first few days, upset stomachs from stress, unfinished meals due to excitement, and even the refusal to eat are common problems.

Often pet parents want to upgrade their dog’s diet. It’s important to remember that dogs can experience an upset stomach from a change in diet if not introduced gradually to the new food. Transitioning to a new diet takes time.

AKC.com offers excellent advice on switching your dog’s food from one to another, stating that changing your dog’s new food can take up to 5 to 7 days.

Stress-induced stomach problems can also be a problem for new dogs. Help ease their stress by taking things slowly, giving them space, and knowing they are safe.

If your dog has stomach issues for more than a few days or if you have any concerns for their wellbeing, consult your veterinarian.

To learn more about how we can help you introduce your new dog or puppy to your home, check out our services page or contact us directly.

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