Demand for dogs has skyrocketed during the pandemic as more people are spending time at home and are looking for companionship. But bringing a new dog into a home can require adjustments—both for the owner and the dog. Here’s some tips to help make the process as easy as possible.
Before bringing a dog into your home, make sure you have everything you need to make them comfortable. This includes a collar/harness and leash, food and water bowls, treats, toys, a crate (if crate training), a dog bed and puppy pee pads (for puppies). Also make sure to have the right type of food for your dog. Find out what your dog is currently being fed, and if you plan to switch to a different brand, do so gradually by mixing the old food with the new food.
If possible, arrange to take some time off work so you can be focused on your dog when they come home.
When you first come home, keep your dog on a leash as you give it a tour. Walk through every room in the house and show them their special area, whether that’s a dog bed or crate. If possible, provide one room for the dog to stay in for the first few days, such as a bedroom.
Have patience with the new dog as the smells and sounds of an unfamiliar area may cause him or her anxiety. And while it’s exciting to have your new furry family member in the house, try to give them space and not overwhelm them with attention.
Before your dog moves in, decide what house rules your dog will need to learn; for example, no jumping on the couch or no eating people food. It is important that everyone in the home teaches the dog the same rules. Failing to do so may cause your new dog to become anxious, confused and difficult to control.
Take your new dog on several walks each day to burn off excess energy. This will help the dog relax in their new home. It will also help them get used to the new neighbourhood.
If you are adopting a rescue dog, make sure to find out beforehand as much information as possible in case they’re not used to walking on a leash or tend to react unpredictably around cars, people or other dogs. Remember that some dogs, especially puppies, have never walked on a leash before and will need to learn that a walk is fun and not something scary.
Before getting a dog—or any other pet—make sure everyone in your household is on board. Figure out who will be in charge of feeding and watering the dog, who will walk the dog (or take turns doing it) and any who will take on any other tasks.
Also make sure everyone speaks to the dog using the same commands. This is especially important with rescue dogs who may not have had much training.
If you’ve rescued a dog from a shelter, such as EHS, ask for help in transitioning the dog to a home environment. The rescue organization will most likely have information on your new dog’s personality and can give you individualized tips for your situation. Many dogs benefit from professional training, which can reinforce correct behaviours—both in the dog and in the humans! Choose trainers that emphasize training techniques that rely on positive reinforcement and make sure that all family members are engaged in the training so that the dog receives a consistent message from everyone.
Make sure you’re fully committed to the responsibility of caring for a dog. This includes being able and willing to pay for expenses, such as food, toys, training and veterinary care. Dogs need regular vet visits, but you also need to be prepared for emergencies, such as illnesses or injuries.
To see our current dogs available for adoption, check out our website.
If you’re able to foster a dog, apply using our dog foster form.