Whether you’re adopting a dog from the animal shelter or buying a puppy from a pet store, deciding to get a dog for your family is indeed an important milestone. After all, a dog is usually an additional family member, and they require the same love and care just as your own children do. Hence, it’s crucial to make the necessary preparations for your house and your family to ensure that your first dog will feel welcome and become at ease in its new home in no time.
Dogs need to adjust to their new environments first, and the time they need can vary depending on their personalities, habits, and preferences. Your task as a dog parent is to support them through this vital phase. Thankfully, with some advice and pointers, you can get your a-game and be a wonderful first-time dog owner right on the first day.
Apply the following tips and tricks to make your dog feel at home the moment you take them home:
Plan The Arrival Of Your Dog
When planning the arrival of your new dog, it’s best to take a day off or set a schedule when you’ll be home to welcome them. Enjoy a few quality moments with your new furry friend. The first few weeks will be crucial in establishing a routine with your new dog, so they know what to expect and grow to trust you. However, you should not rush your dog into adjusting to your home right away. It’s important to allow them to get used to it at their own pace.
While you may want to do all sorts of pet owner-dog bonding activities together, do realize that the first few days they spend should be to observe the home environment and feel more comfortable in it. During the first week, keep things as consistent and quiet as possible. With a reliable dog harness, you can walk your dog and feel at ease that they won’t get lost or stray away and harm other people.
Invest In A Dog Trainer
Another necessary step in welcoming a new family member is to get your dog trained as early as possible. Taking an obedience class with your new dog can be a great way to bond with them while learning how to communicate with them. Puppies in these classes have the chance to get comfortable around humans and other dogs, which is essential for raising a friendly, safe dog.
Check out training programs available near your area so you can enroll during your free time. Another option is to hire a dog trainer for a one-on-one session in the comforts of your own home. They can teach your dog all the necessary tricks and basic toilet training.
Prepare Some Pet Supplies
Pet supplies, such as food, plates, collars, and treats, will be necessary to get started as a dog parent. You can start by creating a list of all the dog supplies you need. It’s essential to get a name for your dog and indicate it on its ID with your contact number, this can be inserted into its leash. This should be the first thing to do to ensure your dog can be brought back easily to your home in case of emergencies.
If you plan to housebreak or box train your pet, you may want to purchase training pads or pet spray along with cleaning supplies, such as spot remover. Invest in quality and durable toys that your puppy can play with, especially during their adjustment weeks in their new environment. Also, stock up on their snacks and dog food to be constantly fed. Ensure to get the best dog food for allergies if your dog is allergic to anything.
Pet-Proof Your Home
Before bringing your new dog home, you’ll need to make sure that your home is safe, so it’s best to check around your home and pet-proof it entirely. Get rid of objects that can pose threats to your dog. Animals should not be exposed to poisonous plants, foods, or unsafe household substances. Keep all your chemical cleaning solutions in the cupboards, inaccessible to your dog.
Also, hide all the small stuff your dog might be interested in, as there may be chances of accidentally swallowing them. Safely keep all your appliances, wirings, and other things that your dog can easily munch and damage. This tip is mainly intended when you’re getting a puppy, as they would constantly want to chew on something.
Ensure Your Dog’s Health
Another tip is to make sure your new dog is healthy upon joining your family. Visit a reliable vet near your home and begin a thorough checkup for your new family member. A good veterinarian should check your new dog’s health within a week and provide him with vaccinations and some medicines to prevent fleas or other diseases. This tip is even more critical if you have adopted a dog from a shelter or a previous owner.
Conclusion
Having a new member of the family is always a good thing. A dog, after all, is a man’s best friend. They remain loyal and loving to you in many ways. The friendship you make will last a lifetime. Hopefully, with the tips enclosed in this article, you can better welcome your new dog into your home in a more effective manner. It’s only a matter of time before you can develop a dog-parent bond with them.
