So you received a new puppy this holiday
season... First and foremost…CONGRATULATIONS!
Being a pet owner
is one of the best experience's possible. Pets
are loyal, loving, kind, playful, and much more.
However, we know that it can be a bit
overwhelming at first. Here are some
tips to help you with this great life changing experience.
- If you haven’t already, give your new pet time to acclimate to your home and family before introducing him to strangers. Make sure children know how to approach the dog without overwhelming him.
- When
you pick up your dog, remember to ask what and when he was fed. Replicate
that schedule for at least the first few days to avoid gastric distress.
If you wish to switch to a different brand, do so over a period of about a
week by adding one part new food to three parts of the old for several
days. Then switch to half new food, half old, and then one part old to
three parts new.
- On
the way home, your dog should be safely secured, preferably in a crate.
Some dogs find car trips stressful, so having him in a safe place will
make the trip home easier on your new pet and yourself.
- Once
home, take him to his toileting area immediately and spend a good amount
of time with him so he will get used to the area and relieve himself. Even
if your dog does relieve himself during this time, be prepared for
accidents. Coming into a new home with new people, new smells, and new
sounds will throw even the most housebroken dog off-track, so be ready
just in case.
- If
you plan on crate training your dog, leave the crate open so that he can
go in whenever he feels like it in case he gets overwhelmed. Ask us about
further do’s and don’ts tips.
- From
there, start your schedule of feeding, toileting and play/exercise. From day
one, your dog will need family time and brief periods of solitary
confinement. Don’t give in and comfort him if he whines when left alone.
Instead, give him attention for good behavior, such as chewing on a toy or
resting quietly.
- For
the first few days, remain calm and quiet around your dog, limiting too
much excitement (such as the dog park or neighborhood children). Not only
will this allow your dog to settle in easier, it will give you more
one-on-one time to get to know him and his likes/dislikes.
- If
he came from another home, objects like leashes, hands, rolled up
newspapers and magazines, feet, chairs and sticks are just some of the
pieces of “training equipment” that may have been used on this dog. Words
like “come here” and “lie down” may bring forth a reaction other than the
one you expect. Or maybe he led a sheltered life and was never socialized
to children or sidewalk activity. This dog may be the product of a
never-ending series of scrambled communications and unreal expectations
that will require patience on your part.
Following Weeks:
- People
often say they don’t see their dog’s true personality until several weeks
after adoption. Your dog will be a bit uneasy at first as he gets to know
you. Be patient and understanding while also keeping to the schedule you
intend to maintain for feeding, walks, etc. This schedule will show your
dog what is expected of him as well as what he can expect from you.
- After
verifying with us that your new pet has all the necessary vaccines, you
may wish to take your dog to group training classes or the dog park. Pay
close attention to your dog’s body language to be sure he’s having a good
time and is not fearful or a dog park bully. If you’re unsure of what
signs to watch for, let us know. We’ll be more than happy to show you.
- To
have a long and happy life together with your dog, stick to the original
schedule you created, ensuring your dog always has the food, potty time,
and attention he needs. You’ll be bonded in no time!
- If
you encounter behavior issues you are unfamiliar with, ask us for a
trainer recommendation. Select a trainer who uses positive-reinforcement
techniques to help you and your dog overcome these behavior obstacles.
- Cherish
every moment…Pets are one of the greatest companions people can have. Like children, they also grow up
fast!
