Introducing a New Dog to Your Home: 6 Tips for Pet Owners

Are you getting a new pup and want to do your best to introduce them to your home? With patience and understanding, you can help your new canine companion feel more comfortable and safe.

When introducing a new canine to your home, you want to give them their bed, toys, leash, and crate. You want your dog to know they are unique and should have their own things. You should also create a routine for your pup that works for both of you.

When you get a new dog, you should set aside a few days to bond with them and get them used to their surroundings. If you want to know six tips for introducing a new canine into your home, peruse this article.

6 Tips for Introducing a New Canine to Your Home

Taking a new dog into your home is a joyful experience for any pet parent. It is a time of wonderment and exploration for the dog, and it is just as exciting for you and your family, including any other pets you may have in the home. The trick is knowing the best way to introduce your new dog and making it easier for them to acclimate to their new surroundings.

The following includes some tips for introducing a new dog into your home:

1) Gather Items for Your New Dog

The first thing any good pet parent does, even before the new dog’s grand arrival, is to gather the supplies that they will need. You want them to have all their stuff and feel welcome. No hand-me-downs from your other dogs! Give your new dog a sense of security by getting them items that are new and just for them, such as:

• A new leash
• Brand new toys
• A new pet carrier
• Grooming supplies
• A comfortable bed
• A fun crate to chill out in
• Food and water bowls
• Collar and identification tag

If you provide these items for your new dog, they will feel like they are genuinely part of the family. You will also need to let them pick their food and treats. Let them sample a few different options. They will let you know their preference. The above list includes some of the major must-haves for your new four-legged family member.

2) Create a Routine

You and your family must get together to help create a routine that best suits your new pup. Figure out who will walk them and when, what rooms are off-limits, and where your new dog will eat. Once you have that sorted out, you should figure out a routine for eating and potty time.

Some ways you can help create a routine for your dog include:

• Set up and keep a certain time for them to have their meals
• Have times for them to go potty or go for a walk
• Have time for short training sessions and obedience
• Get them used to having a healthy bedtime routine

You may also need to crate-train them and show them that it can be a fun place for them to relax. Put a KONG toy or food puzzle inside and a water bowl to make them feel more comfortable. You will also need to teach your dog, especially if it is a puppy, to like being handled. They should know that your touch is always loving and you only want to make them feel good.

3) Spend Quality Time with Your New Dog

Spending quality time with your new dog is essential, as you want them to feel comfortable and safe with you. Spending time together helps with development, bonding, training, and socialization. It allows them to adapt better to their new environment. When you bring your new pup home, you want to spend at least a few days with them, getting them used to their new home.

When you get a new puppy or dog, try to take a “pawternity” leave from work to spend time with the pup. The time you take for pawternity leave is about five to seven days. This time is the estimated amount of time it will take to get your dog to the vet, acclimate your pup to their new routine, and teach them the rules of your humble abode.

4) Puppy Proofing Your Home

When bringing your puppy home, or even an older dog, you want to ensure the house is safe. Puppies have a lot of curiosity and like to explore. It would be an excellent idea to puppy-proof the house so they cannot get into danger, trouble, or mischief. You can:

• Put all human medicine away. Do not keep pills where a puppy can get to them. Have a safe storage place.
• Keep cleaning supplies away. Keep them behind closed doors and utilize childproof latches. Please do not allow the dog to be around when you are using them.
• Keep doors and windows closed. Prevent your pup from escaping or accidentally falling out of the window.
• Keep sharp objects out of paw’s reach. Dogs should not be able to get to scissors, knives, razors, and tools.
• Keep toxic foods away. Do not allow your dog to get to toxic foods like chocolate or grapes; put all human foods in the proper storage area.
• Store away small items that are choking hazards. Items such as coins or paper clips should be stored in a safe area to prevent your dog from getting to them.
• Do not keep toxic plants in your home. For example, oleander and English Ivy should never be around pets. There are plenty of other poisonous plants.
• Keep electrical cords out of reach. Your dog could get shocked, burned, or, worst case scenario- electrocuted. Keep cords contained and off the floor.

Supervising your dog when they are first coming into your home may be a good idea. You should always make sure your dog is safe and there are no hazards for them to get into.

You should also doggie-proof your garage. Garages can sometimes store the most dangerous items. Paint, motor oil, and antifreeze are all unsafe for your puppy.

5) Introduce Your New Dog and Resident Dogs Slowly

It is best to allow introductions to be comfortable for the dogs and let them be at their own pace. Have them meet on even ground: the great outdoors. When walking them together, at least at first, keep the pups at a safe distance from one another. If the dogs demonstrate that they can behave in each other’s presence, give them each a treat.

Getting the dogs to walk side by side may take some time. Take the introduction slowly and be patient with both of them. The dogs will let you know when they are ready to play together. Once they seem interested in one another, keep an eye on them as things progress. Let them play and have fun.

6) Introduce Your New Dog to the Cat

If your dog has never met a cat, let them know they are in for a real treat! Get the two pets used to each other’s scents before allowing them to interact. Give your puppy a blanket from the cat’s carrier to sniff, and vice versa. You can also use pheromone products like Feliway to help make the transition smoother for dogs and cats. Let them meet on their own terms.

Conclusion

Introducing a new pup into your home is challenging, especially if there are other pets. You want everyone to get along and learn to love each other. You can make the process easier by introducing everyone slowly and spending enough time with your new pup to make them feel comfortable and secure in their new home.

Are you a pet parent in the Atlanta, GA region? The Village Vets has 7 practices conveniently located across the Atlanta metro area. Find a location near you today!