Bringing a dog into your house can be both extremely joyful and transforming. For a first-time dog owner, however, this period may be filled with a lot of uncertainty and questions. What can you expect when your new dog finally arrives? How do you best dog-proof your home to make them feel safe and welcome? And more importantly, how do you begin building a bond that will last a lifetime? The article below is riddled with helpful tips for those first crucial days and will definitely serve as the foundation of a very loving relationship with your new canine buddy.
1. Preparing the Home for Your New Dog:
Before your dog finally arrives, it is very important that your home is safe and friendly for the dog. Designate a corner of your house where your dog will eat and sleep and where he can retreat when he needs a sense of security-a nook small and quiet enough with just a bed and a few blankets, including a couple of toys. Also, make sure there are no hazards, such as electrical cords, toxic plants, or small items that may be swallowed.
It’s also smart to pet-proof your house by putting trash cans out of the way, storing cleaning supplies, and removing anything that could fall, be chewed up, or destroyed. The AKC supports this by knowing that having a pet-proofed environment is very important in avoiding accidents and ensuring the safety of your new pet.
2. What to Expect When Your Dog Arrives Home:
The first few days with your new dog can be an almost equal mixture of excitement and anxiety in both you and your pet. New environments may render them nervous, shy, or even a little scared. This is to say that it is very normal for your dog to sniff around the place, explore, or sometimes hide during the first few hours or days. Some dogs may refuse to eat for a couple of days due to the stress involved in the change of environment; however, after a day or two, they get used to it.
It is also a transitional phase, so be cool and patient. Give your dog time to get used to a quiet, comfortable space in which to settle, allowing them time to get familiar with this new environment. Do not stress them with too many visitors or activities. According to the Humane Society of the United States, an atmosphere should be kept quiet and calm to help dogs get faster acclimatized to the new environment.
3. Begin to Build Your Bond: Little Things Matter
Developing a bond with your new dog is a process that is achieved by first building a relationship through patience and persistence. Time should be spent together doing simple things like:
- Daily Walks: Other than the exercising element, walking tends to create bonding between both the dog and the owner by instilling routine activities.
- Grooming: Regular grooming sessions tend to make dogs trust and feel at ease.
- Its time to play: Engage your dog both mentally and physically with toys and games.
Custom things, like a custom pet keychain from PettiCustom or a pet portrait pillow, may also help in reinforcing this bond. Owning something personalized, with the image of your dog, is a constant reminder of this new relationship and may bring in a sense of belonging and comfort.
4. Essentials to Get for a New Dog:
For an easy transition with your new dog, have the following things ready:
- Dog Bed: A comfortable area for your dog to sleep and rest.
- Food and Water Bowls: Non-slippery bowls that are easy to clean.
- High-Quality Dog Food: Choose a brand that best suits your dog’s age, size, and health requirements. You may ask your vet for any recommendation.
- Collar and Leash: An appropriately fitted collar with identification tags in it and a leash that is strong.
- Toys: Chew toys, interactive toys, and comfort toys to help alleviate anxiety and prevent boredom.
- Grooming Supplies: A brush suitable for your dog’s coat type, nail clippers, and dog-friendly shampoo.
- Crate or Carrier: If you are considering crate training or safe transportation.
The Petfinder Foundation reminds that having these home doggy welcomes ready prior to your dog’s arrival will make him feel more at home and decrease his stress level.
5. First Vet Visit and Health Care Essentials:
Schedule your first veterinary visit to be within a week of bringing your dog home. This visit should include a full check-up, vaccinations, and discussions about flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Your vet can advise you on proper nutrition and will answer any questions you may have regarding your new dog’s health.
This study, by the American Animal Hospital Association, emphasizes how early veterinary visits can protect against any health concerns and establish a care routine for your new pet.
Reference
- American Kennel Club (AKC). (2023). Preparing for a New Puppy.
- Humane Society of the United States. How to make your new dog feel comfortable in your home
- American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). (2023). National Pet Week 2023: Celebrating the bond between pets and owners through responsible care.
- Petfinder Foundation. (2023). Pet Adoption Checklist.
- American Animal Hospital Association. (2020). Why Are Regular Veterinary Visits Important?
