There is a lot of excitement and anticipation about bringing a new dog into your home! And just like bringing a new baby home, there is also some prep work involved to ensure a smooth transition.

While most dogs – regardless of whether they are adults or puppies – require similar procedures and procedures, there are a few things to consider when bringing a rescue into your home. And   if you’ve never owned a dog before, it’s important to do your research to ensure your home is so dog friendly that your new canine companion will be safe and happy in the new space.

What should you think about before you bring your puppy home? Keep reading to discover my tips for acclimating to a rescue dog in your home.

Step One: Prepare a Safe Space

First of all,   you need to prepare a suitable space for your new fur baby.

Personally, I recommend finding a quiet place where you can set up a cage and/or playpen. In this area, the dog should have a bed and/or blankets, a toy or two, and a bowl of fresh water.

Creating this space is very important, as all dogs need a den-like place where they can rest and feel safe. This space can also be used to house your pet when you are away from home or for times when you cannot devote your full attention to your dog.

Of course, a dog should not be restricted to a crate or playpen all day.  But, this kind of setup is great for when you can’t keep an eye on your pup or all night long.

It’s also a great way to ensure your new dog stays safe and out of trouble.

Think about it… you probably have no idea what your new dog’s past life was like. Your pup has probably been left outside 24/7 and doesn’t know how to properly live indoors. Or perhaps the new pup didn’t have any rules in their previous home, which leads them to become destructive.

Until you learn more about your pup and put some training in place, creating a safe space for your dog is essential.

Step Two: Start a Routine

Most dogs eat routine.  After all, it’s good to have some structure and after a while your pup will be able to recover when it’s time to eat, play, sleep, potty etc.

This type of routine instills a sense of security in your pup. After some time, your dog will not have to worry about whether he will be fed or whether he will be allowed outside to use the bathroom.

In the long run, a solid routine can help get rid of some of your dog’s fears…especially if your pup was neglected in their past lives.  It also helps keep you accountable for ensuring that all of your dog’s needs are met.

It’s a win for everyone!

I recently wrote an article that provided a definitive puppy schedule that new parents of puppies can follow at home. Even if your rescue dog isn’t a puppy, the article is worth checking out!

Step Three in Dog Rescue: Keep Calm and Calm in Your Home

There is nothing more exciting than bringing home a new dog! But, even though you may be full of excitement, your new canine companion will likely be anxious, fearful, and stressed.

Take a moment to put yourself at your dog’s feet…

You go from living abroad 24/7 chained to a kennel. Then you move to a crowded and noisy shelter. Then one day you are picked up, dumped in a car, and taken to another strange new home.

This can be very difficult for your new dog. Knowing this, it is important to keep your energy and calm while you transport your pup.

Personally, I recommend, at least for the first few days, to refrain from …

• Having a group of strange visitors come to your house.
• Set the TV on fire or blow up the music.
• Take your dog to pet stores or densely populated areas.

Allow yourselves a few days to get to know each other in peace as you begin to build your relationship. Next, slowly introduce the puppy to new things as he becomes more comfortable with his surroundings.

If you have children, this can add another challenging dynamic to the situation as children tend to be boisterous and play wildly.  Your job as a father is to sit down with your children and explain to them how to respectfully interact with your new family member.

Let your kids know that…

• shouting
• Chase
• Invading your dog’s space

…these are all behaviors that will not be allowed, as they may frighten the new pup.

Step #4: Put a vigorous training routine in place

By far, the best thing you can do for a new rescue puppy in your home is to establish a vigorous training routine.

Here’s why…

Training isn’t just about getting your dog to “sit” or “roll over.” It is about building a relationship of trust between you and your dog.

When you use gentle and gentle training techniques, your dog learns to look at you for reassurance and direction.  This takes a lot of pressure off your pup because he no longer feels in control or has to be the provider…they can simply enjoy the lively life as a dog!

Of course, training also teaches your dog to listen to you when it matters most, which can prevent accidents and other issues in the future.

Cherry on top…

When you spend time training your dog, you’ll be spending quality time together  – absolutely a puppy’s favorite thing!

If you are not sure what type of training methods to use, I highly recommend my The Dog Calming Code™.

Step #5 in Dog Rescue: Be patient, be compassionate, and love your dog

Last but not least,   I want to remind you to be patient, compassionate, and love your dog at all costs.

Up until this point, your pup has been living a difficult life. Now it’s time to show them what living in a loving home is all about.

Know that this trip may not be cakey. You may discover difficult behavioral issues or struggle to bond with your new pup, it is important to understand that it takes time to acclimatize to this major life change – for you and your dog!

If you take the time to prepare your dog for success, you will be able to overcome any obstacle.  You just have to stick with it and be patient.

I wish you the best and want to thank you once again for saving the life of a dog in your community!