The first few days after bringing your new dog home are extremely exciting yet critical for your new pet.
In these first few days, you will be establishing what the rest of your time together is like. Your dog needs structure in order to have a smooth transition. We suggest that as soon as you get your pup home, conduct your regular schedule of feeding, toileting and exercise or playtime. A regular schedule right away will make it easier for the whole family to adjust to life with a new dog in the home.
Make sure children are not overwhelming the dog right away. Your dog will need time to adjust being in a new home, so you shouldn’t introduce him to strangers right away either. Also, give your pup some time to bond with your family before introducing him to others.
Try to remain calm around your dog, especially over the course of the first few days. This will allow you to get better acquainted with each other and will allow him to settle into his new home faster.
For additional important first training tips, be sure to read our blog post on Dog training 101!
Most importantly, cherish these first few days you all have together; your pup won’t be a pup forever!