Helping Your New Family Dog to Settle In

Getting a family dog is an exciting prospect, but it’s also a lot of responsibility. Getting off on the right foot is always the best way to make sure that your dog will be happy in its new home.

However, every dog and every family are different. You will need to find a way to settle your dog into your family that suits their needs and your circumstances. With that in mind, here are some general guidelines to help your family to be complete and comfortable.

Puppy or an Older Dog

The first thing to consider is the age of the dog when it first settles in. If you get a puppy from a licensed breeder, like Lucky Labs, then you know what kind of dog it will grow into. While each dog might be unique, breeds do share characteristics.

Puppy

So, if you get a labrador retriever puppy, you can expect a loyal, friendly dog that is intelligent, active, and quite large. One thing to remember, especially with a breed like a labrador retriever, is that puppies grow. A little puppy that you can easily carry in your hand can easily end up being a large dog that needs a lot of space.

If you’re getting a puppy, it will be anxious and excited all at once. A responsible breeder will tell you how to help them settle in. You should get information about what food the puppy eats, as suddenly switching to a new food can cause stomach problems. If possible, ask for a puppy blanket from the breeder, as this will have the scent of the puppy’s mother.

Adult Dog

If you’re getting an adult dog from a shelter, you still have to make sure that the dog doesn’t get too overwhelmed or anxious. Some shelter dogs have special needs, so make sure that you speak to the shelter about their needs or any traumas. If you have children, check that the dog is child-friendly.

In both cases, while you might be excited, give the dog a little bit of space if it needs it. Some dogs will immediately come to you for comfort, but others might want to explore their new home first. Take it by ear and don’t be impatient if the dog seems anxious.

If you have other dogs, introduce them to a neutral area so they can get to know each other. Some dogs can be territorial, especially if the dogs are about the same age and the same sex. It can be easier to introduce puppies to adult dogs but don’t leave them unsupervised until you’re confident that they get on safely.

Training Your New Family Dog

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Unfortunately, getting a dog isn’t all fun and games. It’s your responsibility to raise and train your dog properly. Again, the training process differs depending on the kind of dog you have and how old it is.

For example, while puppies are cute, they aren’t always the best students. You have to be patient with your puppies and keep training sessions short and sweet. Keep them engaged with treats and plenty of fuss when they get things right.

Potty Training

You also have to train your puppy from scratch. First, tackle the house training. Nobody wants a dog who messes in the house, so train them to hold it and let you know when they want to go outside. If you have a backyard, you’re one step ahead. If not, your dog will need regular walks so they have the opportunity to relieve themselves.

Basic Training

As well as toilet training, your dog will need basic obedience training. Teach it to sit, to stay, to come when called, and not to do anything you don’t want it to. You can also teach your dog tricks, especially if they’re clever and enjoy training.

Even adult dogs might need some training. True, most adult dogs are house-trained but may need a catch-up on their obedience training. Thankfully, you can teach an old dog new tricks.

Many dogs, especially working dog breeds and other intelligent dogs, actually enjoy the training. It keeps their minds occupied and gives them something to do. If your dog is like this, consider getting toys that also exercise their minds so they don’t get frustrated or anxious.

If you’re struggling with training, don’t worry. You can find a dog trainer who knows how to teach your dog how to be obedient and to stay safe. A dog trainer is also a good option if you want your dog to get advanced training. They will also give you tips to help you better train your dog.

Fun Activities With Your New Family Dog

The best way to get the most out of your furry friends so that everyone can have fun is to exercise them in a natural area. Dog parks are perfect for this, as they provide green, dog-friendly regions to play in. Even better, your dogs can socialize with other dogs.

Although, even at dog parks, you still have to keep your dogs supervised. Even if your dog is well-trained, other dogs might not be. It may be prudent to keep your dog on a leash if you aren’t sure about the area.

Do some research about dog-friendly areas near you. If you can find somewhere they can play without a leash, all the better. Dogs love to run unhindered, and most people can’t keep up.

Taking your dog out to play isn’t just good for your dog, it’s good for you. Many people find that the obligation to look after their dogs and keep them fit is a fantastic incentive to exercise. Depending on the dog, you can walk, run, or even cycle with them. Your dog can join in with certain sports or other outdoor activities.

Play with your dog at home as well as exercise when out and about. Your kids can also enjoy this, but supervise small children and dogs.

It isn’t just your job to keep your dog healthy, you want them to be happy as well.

With all of this great info, you are well on your way to getting a new family dog and knowing the best way to take care of them! Until next time…