Welcoming a dog or puppy into your home is exciting, but it’s also a big adjustment for them. Here’s a simple guide to help you prepare and start off on the right paw!
Getting Your Home Ready
- Remove rugs: Puppies might confuse rugs for pee pads, so it’s best to take them up at first.
- Provide toys: Always have toys available to keep your dog or puppy mentally stimulated and prevent boredom.
- Secure your space: Make sure your yard is fully fenced and safe. Some dogs can dig under or jump over fences quickly. Never leave them unsupervised outside at first.
- Limit areas: Initially, limiting the animal’s freedom into the entire house can help them adjust, start with smaller key areas, and then increase their ability to roam as they understand the boundaries within the household.
Walks & Outdoor Time
- Leash only: Only walk your dog or puppy on a secure lead, and collar or harness it is unable to slip out of.
- No dog parks or public places yet: Avoid areas with lots of other dogs, your vet or care team staff from your place of adoption should be able to advise you of the animals’ current sociability status and what they may need further development on.
- Vaccination timing matters: Vaccinations are very important for your pups health and wellbeing. Be aware of the cases of disease in your current area, and consult with your veterinarian. Puppies require 3 vaccinations between the period of 6-8 weeks and 12-16 weeks.
- Understand the critical socialisation period: The critical socialisation period in puppies occurs between 7 & 17 weeks of age. During this time, puppies are especially receptive to new experiences, people, animals, and environments. Positive exposure during this window helps them develop into well-adjusted, confident adult dogs. Lack of socialisation during this stage can lead to fearfulness, anxiety, or behavioural problems later in life. It is a very short period for learning, but these experiences can stay with them for life and form the building blocks for their confidence.
- Whilst vaccinations and health are important, socialising and habituating your puppy to new experiences during this time is critical. If your pup has had 2 vaccinations, you may take it walking in safe areas that have low dog-traffic and introduce them to dogs you know are well temperamented, and you’re aware of their vaccination status (e.g family or close friends’ dogs). When walking, stick to concrete instead of grass, or even use a trolley, stroller, or carry the pups. Car rides are also a great way to show your pup the world safely.
First Day Home
- Potty first: Before bringing your dog inside, give them a chance to toilet outside.
- Have a plan: Decide ahead of time: Where will they sleep? Are they allowed on furniture? Will they use a crate or bed? Make sure everyone in the home is on the same page.
- Keep it calm: Don’t overwhelm your dog with visitors or excitement. Give them a few days to adjust quietly.
- Create a safe zone: Set up a cozy spot (like a crate or bed) where your dog can rest and feel secure. Reward them for using it!
Routines & Alone Time
- Be consistent: Feeding, walks, and bedtime at regular timeframes will help your dog feel safe and settled.
- Practice alone time early: Make time alone feel rewarding. Use toys, puzzles, or safe chews to keep them occupied.
Starting off with calm, structure, and patience will help your new companion feel safe, confident, and right at home.
