How to Make Your Adopted Dog Feel Right at Home

Shelters have dogs of almost every breed and background. Staff at these centers are typically trained to help owners match a good match, but owners need to be practical. No matter how adorable, a boisterous, playful puppy may not be the right match for an owner who works long hours away from the house. Big beautiful mountain dogs could be cramped in a tiny apartment. It's important that the dog's breed and temperament match the lifestyle of the family they're joining.

Every shelter dog has a history that will impact how they view their new home. A pooch who's experienced neglect may be frightened of people, while a dog who's been fostered may take more time to understand that this home is permanent. Some have unique behavioral challenges or disabilities. Even healthy dogs from perfectly loving homes may be confused or miss their previous owners. The more information a new owner has, the more they'll be able to understand and respond to their dog's individual needs.

Make sure the dog has a comfortable place to sleep, familiar food, and a secure area to play. Frightened canines can have accidents, so it could be worth it to put down plastic on carpets or keep them in areas that are easy to clean. Try to get a sense of their preferences. Some dogs prefer to sleep in a crate or have a favorite brand of food, and these little details can help them feel comfortable.

Keep introductions limited to members of the household at first. Explain to any children in the house that the new puppy might be scared and encourage them to let the dog approach them first and to pet it gently. It's important to set up a place where the dog can retreat if they become overwhelmed. This may be a crate they can enter and exit as they please or a quiet corner with a bed.

If there are existing animals in the house, try to keep them separated from the new family member for at least 24 hours. Bring them together on neutral ground, like an outside garden or a nearby park, and keep them both on a leash. Even if your animals are typically friendly, stress or territorial instincts may cause them to fight. Be patient. Both pets may need time to get used to sharing space.

It's tempting to let a clingy new dog sleep in the bed. However, if the plan is for them to sleep in their crate, it's important to set that expectation from the beginning. Dogs find comfort in set routines and schedules, especially if their previous life was unpredictable. Calmly and gently enforce the rules of their new home. The quicker a dog understands what's expected of them, the more safe and comfortable they'll feel.

For the first few days, it's best to supervise as your dog explores their new home. A dog given free rein in an unfamiliar empty house may chew on things, scratch up furniture, or try to mark their territory. Some pups may take a few days in their crate before they're ready to venture out. Be patient and reassuring. Try to read their body language and let them approach for reassurance and bonding. Short walks and gentle, positive play help a new dog bond with its family.

A regular vet is an invaluable resource for keeping a dog healthy and safe. In the early days of re-homing, your veterinarian can answer questions about how they're adjusting, check for any emerging health issues, and get to know the new dog. Professional dog trainers can help with behavioral issues. Some dogs thrive with the exercise, socialization, and mental challenge that training provides.

The stress of a re-homing can cause some dogs to exhibit odd behaviors. A previously house-trained pooch may start having accidents, they may develop new behavioral problems, or have difficulty eating. This is all normal. Check in with your vet about any health concerns; otherwise, try to maintain a calm, positive routine. Use positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior, offer them food regularly, and consistently enforce rules. As the dog becomes more comfortable, these setbacks usually resolve themselves.

As your dog becomes more comfortable with its new home and family, owners get to see more of its true personality shine through. The next step is to keep building that bond. Trust takes time. Consistent routine, loving discipline, and regular play all help build the relationship between a rescue and their new companion. In time, the hard work will be rewarded as owners watch their pup go from frightened and unsure to a confident part of the family.