How to Be the Best New Dog Parent

Once Home

By now you've made all of the preparations necessary to welcome your new dog home, but your work isn't done yet. Following these steps after your new pup arrives will help you be a great dog parent.

6. Make Introductions Slowly

Children and other pets should be allowed to meet their new family member one at a time and under close supervision. Talk with your kids again, reminding them of the rules for safely greeting and handling the dog. Bring other dogs outside to meet on neutral ground, allowing plenty of time to sniff and size each other up. Keep cats separated for the first few days, allowing them and the dog to smell each other first through closed doors, and then through a pet gate or screen, before letting them make contact.

7. Choose a Veterinarian

As soon as you can, make an appointment for a wellness check for your new pup, and make sure they’re up to date on all vaccinations. Your vet can also advise you of any health issues your dog may be prone to because of their breed. Your vet can also teach you how to prevent some conditions.

8. Get Identification

Your pup will be coming home to an unfamiliar neighbourhood. Should they somehow get lost, an ID tag with your contact information will make it a lot easier for them to find their way home.

9. Set a Schedule

Dogs are routine oriented, so the sooner you can start getting your pup used to their new normal, the better. Establish designated mealtimes and bedtimes and stick to them. Show where it's okay for them to relieve themselves and start getting them used to going on walks. If regular walks won't be in the picture, begin another kind of daily fitness routine, even if it's just a simple game of fetch.

10. Begin Training ASAP

House training, crate training, obedience training and socialisation are all things a young dog needs to learn, and the sooner the better. Older dogs might already be well socialised and potty trained but will still need to become familiar with household expectations and rules. If your dog is getting a new name, it's important for their own safety to learn it and respond to it as quickly as possible. You can find an abundance of resources to help properly train your dog, from books and online videos to classes and professional dog trainers. However you go about it, it's important to remember that the key to success is consistency and patience. Don't embark on obedience classes if you won't be able to follow up with daily practice.

Owning a dog is a big undertaking. As much as this is a big transition for you and your family, it's important to remember that this is also a major transition for your dog. The most important thing you can give your new dog during this uncertain time is plenty of love and patience as you accept them into your home. With this in addition to the above steps, you'll become the best dog parent your new pup could ever want.