Helping Your Newly Adopted Dog Feel Settled in Their New Home
Dogs are by far the most popular type of pet. Millions of people across the world have brought an adopted dog into their life, and they serve as trusted and loyal companions.
However, coming into a new environment can be a stressful experience for an adopted dog. As an owner, you should try to facilitate the transition period so that it goes as smoothly as possible. We’ve put together a guide with several top tips for helping your dog feel settled in their new home.
Give Your Newly Adopted Dog Their Own Space
When arriving in a new home, an adopted dog will need time and space to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings and assess the situation. Before your adopted dog arrives, set aside a quiet room or corner where they can relax or hide if they need to.
Keep everything they need here, including food, water, and a bed. This space might help your dog take the time to adjust to this new place and get used to different sights, smells, and sounds. Realistically, your dog may end up taking another space in your apartment or home, so you may have to move the items into this new area.
Bring toys or items from your dog’s previous home and leave them in their space if possible. Dogs have an incredibly keen sense of smell, so a familiar scent will help ease their transition.
Don’t Force Interaction Too Soon
It can be easy to want to cuddle and play with your adopted dog straight away. However, as the dog still doesn’t know you properly, doing this could make them feel uncomfortable. Forcing play could make them feel more stressed, which could hinder any efforts on your part to bond with the dog.
Resist the temptation and allow your dog to settle in first. After a short period of time, the dog’s curiosity about you and other members of your family will kick in, and it will start approaching and interacting more regularly with you.
Safeguard Your Home for a Newly Adopted Dog
Once your dog starts to feel a bit more comfortable in your home, they will be keen to explore and start playing. Keep note of things they struggle with, such as slippery wooden floors. Some dogs have a hard time adjusting to these surfaces and may fly into tables and other furniture.
There are various hazards that you should be wary of, as dogs can chew through electrical cables and sharp objects, which could end up in a trip to the vet. Ideally, these things don’t happen, but you should have a backup in place to help support you if you need to pay for any medical treatment. Have a look at the different policies offered by pet insurers like Petsure to see what the best option for you and your adopted dog is.
Give Treats To Build a Bond
It’s no secret that dogs love snacks. Food can be the key to your dog’s heart, with treats an incredibly effective tool for quickly building a bond with your new friend and helping them settle into their new home.
Avoid giving them inappropriate human foods, such as those that are toxic or too high in fat, since these can be lethal for dogs. Use dog treats or safe human foods instead.
Helping your newly adopted dog settle into your home is key to building trust and a long-lasting relationship. Set aside a private space for them with everything they need, don’t force interaction too soon, safeguard your home, and give them plenty of dog treats. You’ll be best friends in no time at all. At Oakland Veterinary Referral Services, we can help you get your newly adopted dog healthy and adjusted. Our team is knowledgeable and compassionate and is happy to help get your new relationship off to the best start. To learn more about our specialty veterinary services or our emergency care, please call (248) 334-6877.
