NEW DOG! YAY!

Getting a dog is so exciting, it’s like getting a new member of the family. As excited as we might be to bring home that little fluff ball, we have to consider what it will be like for the dog. Their whole life is changing. They are moving to a new house, with new people and everything is unknown to them. This can be scary and worrying for a lot of dogs. We have to do everything we can to help them settle in and feel safe. Here are a few things you can do to help your new dog adjust. I think they are so important that I will write them in big bold letters.

LET THEM SETTLE IN

We have to remember that everything is new for your dog, and that it is going to be overwhelming. We might want to show them off to all our family, take them on holidays or long walks, have doggy place dates or training classes but these things are just going to add more pressure. Allow your dog at least 2 weeks to settle in, keep a calm environment and, if possible, take a few days off so you can be around all the time. Don’t invite everyone over to meet them on the first day or book in to training classes straight away. The dog needs time to relax in the new environment and get to know you first so that they trust you and feel safe. Some dogs will settle in quicker than others but it is still a good idea to give them that settling in period. I would suggest a minimum of 2 weeks for all dogs but it can take a few months for some dogs to feel completely comfortable and show their full character. You will see a big difference in your dog after a few months of them being compared to the day they come home.

LISTEN TO YOUR DOG

Dog’s are always trying to communicate with us, we just have to learn to listen. I wish I could say that if a dog is feeling a specific emotion it will do a specific behaviour, but every dog is different and will act differently. When some dogs are nervous they might hide and not want to be touched, others might want to sit really close to you and follow you around, some might be running and jumping around when nervous. Every dog is different and you have to learn to listen to what your dog is saying. There are a few things you can look out for, for example lip licking or stress yawning, that can help you realise what your dog is feeling. When I am working with a new dog, I generally stick to the 3 seconds rule. If you are stroking or playing with the dog stop after 3 seconds and take your hands away, this gives the dog the opportunity to move away if they want to or, if they are enjoying the attention, they will ask for more. This is a great way to give the dog a choice and ensure you are not forcing yourself on the dog. If you have children, make sure to always supervise them with the dog and make sure they are also giving the dog the space it needs.

Below is a list of signs or stress and anxiety in dogs, if you can listen to your dog at the more subtle signs then it won’t have to escalate to the red. Remember that a dog growling is also just a dog trying to communicate.

ROUTINE AND RULES

Having a routine will really help the dogs to settle in. If they know they are going to be fed, walked and go to bed at the same time every day. It will help build up trust and for them to feel more secure. After the first few days, you should also start to slowly include time apart from your dog so they get used to spending time alone (you can see my blog, leaving your dog, for tips on how to build this up).

It is important to start as you mean to go on. For example, if you don’t want your dog on the sofa, make that the rule from the start rather than adding it later. It is important to have these rules in place so your dog learns from the start what is acceptable and what is not. Try to correct behaviours in a positive way. Have lots of chew toys for your dog, toilet breaks to prevent accidents, cuddles when not jumping up etc. Make sure everyone in the house is following these rules and be consistent. Your dog will quickly learn.

PATIENCE

Some dogs will immediately love their owners and others it will take a bit longer, don’t get discouraged. If you have a very nervous dog, when you eventually see them relax and feel comfortable in your house all the waiting will be worth it.

You can try to bond with your dog with cuddles, play or training, just remember not to add more pressure on them and to take breaks. Watch their body language and listen to what they are feeling, it might be a few weeks before they feel comfortable to play or train but that’s okay.

Take it slow and give your dog a good routine, time to settle in and a space of his own and you will be best friends before you know it.