Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Bringing a New Dog Home: 101

By Dirk Gruenberg


A puppy would eventually adjust itself to its surroundings naturally. But as far as getting an adult dog adjust to a new house is concerned, it might be a little tricky.

Being taken away from one's family and being taken somewhere completely different can be quite a shock, no matter how nice you are. This means that your dog might, at first, misbehave a little bit, simply because he is confused.

So how can you help your dog to make it through this change okay. To start off with, you might want to keep feeding the food he is already used to. Also stick to his previous feeding times if possible. If you find that you simply cannot accept the food he has been given thus far, change to a different kind slowly, rather than abruptly.

This is easy to do: Just leave one unit of the old food out and add one unit of the new one. Over the course of two weeks, gradually increase the ratio until you are left feeding the new food only.

Another thing to consider is the dog's sleeping place as well as his toys. Ideally, both should be taken to your house when getting the dog. This way he would find it comforting to have something he is already used to.

Of course, toilet training will also be needed to be performed. Do not expect to know where he is allowed to do his business and where he is not. This would not be fair to expect.

Additionally, take the time to go for walks around the neighborhood with your dog. Always remember that he will only know what you show him.

Managing your dog with authority is very important in the initial period of your dog's stay in the new place. Usually, dogs behave in a wild manner in a new environment, and as a good owner, one must avoid and control it.

Of course, bringing home a new dog and having him settle in is a big milestone. It will change him, you, and your family. Depending on his breed, his temperament, and his personality it will be easy or not quite so easy, but remember, he is part of your family now, and as time goes by he will bring your more joy than you can imagine. So be patient.




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