Preparation Before Adoption
Bringing a new dog into your home requires careful planning. This is something that most people do, unless they find a stray dog on the street. Before adopting a dog, it's important to have the necessary supplies like food, treats, bowls, a dog bed, a leash and collar, and maybe some toys.
If you've been proactive, you may have already scheduled the first vet appointment and discussed the rules of the house with everyone. This includes determining who will be responsible for feeding and walking the dog, where the dog is allowed, and other important guidelines.
The Big Day
On the big day when you bring the dog home, it's important to approach the situation with calmness. Everyone should try to remain calm and avoid overwhelming the dog with excitement. Remember, the dog is being taken away from a familiar place and brought into a completely new environment.
Introducing the New Environment
When you arrive home, keep the dog on a leash and take her for a long walk around the neighborhood. This not only helps her release excess energy and become more calm, but also helps her familiarize herself with new smells, sights, and sounds.
After the walk, it's time for a proper introduction to your home. Keep the dog on the leash and bring her to the front door. However, do not let her enter first. Instead, get her to sit or lie down and then you can enter first, inviting her in afterwards.
House Tour
As you lead the dog from room to room, make sure to keep her on the leash. Spend a few minutes in each room before moving on to the next, and always enter the room first to establish your leadership. The same rules apply if you have an outside area.
During the tour, it's important to use only body language or simple sounds to communicate or correct the dog. Speaking is not necessary at this point, as the dog is already overwhelmed with the new environment. Using less stimulation will help keep her focused on you.
Feeding and Settling
After the tour, bring the dog to the designated feeding area and offer her some water and a few bits of food, but not a whole bowl yet. Remember, she is still on her leash.
If you have a specific spot in the house where you want the dog to stay, whether it's her bed, a corner in the living room, or a crate, bring her there. This is the moment when you can finally let her off the leash and allow her to settle down in her designated spot.
Establishing Leadership
Once you have completed these steps, it is important to exude calm and assertive energy throughout the day. Everyone in the household should ignore the dog, demonstrating that you are the pack leader. While you can acknowledge the dog's presence, it is important not to go overboard with affection yet.
Conclusion
By following these eight essential steps, you will establish yourself as the pack leader and create a harmonious environment for your new dog. Remember to stay calm and assertive throughout the process.
Good luck with your new furry friend!