Becoming a pet owner can be an exciting and challenging experience all wrapped up into one. It takes a lot of work to be a responsible pet owner, especially when it comes to being a dog owner. There are many factors to consider and things to prepare around the house when bringing a new puppy into your home. Here are some tips to help make the process of bringing your furry friend home a little less overwhelming for both you and your dog.
Establish Rules for Your Family and Home
Before bringing a new puppy into your home, you need to be on the same page with the rest of your family when it comes to boundaries and rules for the new addition. Make sure you all agree on the rules for the dog and that you will all execute the same schedule and training to make the process go smoother. If everyone is not on the same page, it can confuse your new puppy and they won’t learn what the actual rules are.
Gather Supplies
Next, before going to pick up your new puppy, you should gather all necessary supplies that you will need for them. This includes their food, dishes for food and water, toys, a bed or crate, puppy training pads, and stain cleaning spray for any potential accidents they may have. Set up their feeding, playing, and sleeping areas before you pick them up, so it is easier for them to acclimate when you bring them home.
Remain Calm
During the entire process of bringing a new puppy into your home, you should always remain calm. The puppy is most likely feeling overwhelmed, and everything is very new to them. If you demonstrate a sense of calmness, it will help the puppy to feel comfortable quicker.
Take a Long Walk
When you arrive at home with your new puppy, before entering your home, you should take them for a long walk around the neighborhood. This will help them get used to the neighborhood sights, sounds, and smells. It will also help to tire them out a little, so they aren’t as anxious when entering their new home. Make sure they also go to the bathroom on this walk to limit the number of accidents they have within the home.
Give Them a Tour
While on a leash, give your new puppy a tour of their home. Introduce them to each room one by one and make sure to spend a decent amount of time in the areas where they will eat, play, and sleep. Keeping them on the leash at this point will help them understand they do not have free reign within the home and there will be rules set in place.
Establish a Routine
It’s important to establish a routine with them as soon as you bring them home. Stay consistent with feeding times, bathroom breaks, and a sleep schedule to get them acclimated faster. If you plan to implement training whether by yourself or as a professional, it’s also a good idea to start classes at an early age while their minds are still forming.