Here are 10 tips for the first 30 days after adopting a dog
The process of welcoming a new pet to your home is exciting but also challenging. This guideline will make it easier to adopt and help ensure a smooth transition.
Be Patient
Dogs can find it overwhelming to be in a new environment with new people and new places. It is important that your dog has time to adjust to the new surroundings and get to know all of the other animals and visitors. You should allow your dog to experience these new situations, but not forcefully.
Make a Routine
It is crucial to establish a routine that is consistent and predictable in order to create a calm and well-organized environment. This includes setting feeding and walking times, and deciding who will be responsible for each caretaking task. Disorganization can cause anxiety and unwelcome behaviors in your pet.
Gradually introduce new Pups to Resident Pups
Your new dog should be introduced to your existing dog slowly and carefully. Take care to ensure the safety of your dog, as well as their history with other animals, personalities, and body language. These details can guide you and help you determine whether adjustments are required. These are the dos and don’ts.
DO:
- Use positive reinforcement
- If one or both dogs are showing aggression or fear, it is best to stop any interactions and start over if they calm down.
- Take the first interaction on neutral territory.
- Keep in mind breaks between interactions
DON’T:
- Encourage interactions
- Do not leave your resident dog’s toys in the house for the first interaction.
- Do not ignore any signs of a poor encounter, and just continue the interaction
Start Crate Training as Quickly as Possible
Crate training can provide many benefits. For example, it will keep your dog safe on the road or at home, and make it easier to train them in the house. You should start crate training your dog as soon as possible to make it part of their daily routine. Crate training should be safe and comfortable. Talk to your vet if your new dog shows signs of anxiety or distress during crate training.
Provide the required enrichment
Environment enrichment is a vital part of animal welfare and health. This means providing your dog with the right bedding, toys, and social interactions to increase his comfort at home. Safety is paramount when your dog has new toys. There are many toys to choose from, but durable toys are the best. They are less likely to get swallowed, break teeth or get stuck in your dog’s mouth.
Find a positive-enrichment dog trainer
Dog training does more than teach a dog obedience. It provides mental stimulation, physical and mental stimulation, builds the human-animal bond and improves overall behavior. As these can lead to worse behavior and poor welfare, it is important to avoid being aggressive or painful in training methods. You should interview the trainer and observe the class before you make a decision.
Potty Train – Positive Reinforcement
Even dogs who have been housebroken can have accidents in a new environment. House-training can be made easier by using positive reinforcement and consistent commands like “go potty!” It is a good idea to supervise your dog when he is not in a confined area, take frequent trips outside, punish an accident when it occurs, and reward your dog for getting out of the house.
Transition to new food or diet
Dogs have many options when it comes to diets. It may be best for your dog to stay on the current diet while you discuss options with your vet. You should transition your pet slowly, gradually introducing the new foods over the course of 1-2 weeks. It will be easier to avoid diarrhea and upset stomachs by slowing down the transition.
It is important to exercise both mentally and physically
Like humans, a happy and healthy dog requires both mental and physical exercise. Walking your dog provides both physical and mental exercise. Puzzle toys are a good option for mental stimulation, as they can be played indoors with your dog. The amount of exercise your dog requires will depend on its breed and age. Ask your vet for recommendations.
Establish a Veterinarian Partnership ASAP
A veterinarian is your best resource for your dog’s well-being and health. It’s important to establish a relationship early so your dog can adjust to you. To ensure that your vet is able to perform any necessary tests or vaccines, you should bring your medical records, past history, and vaccine records.
Adopting your dog can be a wonderful experience for you and your dog. Be patient and ready to help your dog through this difficult time. It will make for a rewarding relationship.
