General Dog Rules for Adopting and Adapting

June 30, 2020

General Dog Rules for Adopting and Adapting

Bringing a furry friend to home as an addition to a growing family is probably the most exciting and rewarding feeling for a pet lover. But of course, a huge commitment comes as a part of it.  Dogs are fond of having a routine, so you’ll learn that consistency is the key, especially during the first few. That will help your dog a lot to adjust and relax in the new environment.  A newly adopted puppy or old dog is expected to take a few days to settle in. Learn some tips to make the transition a little easier for you and your pooch.

Preparation is a must. Start slow, it will give them time to decompress. Some one on one time with his new family and surrounding will truly matter for your pup. Allow him to explore the whole house and yard at his own pace until he gradually fit in. Adjustment period may vary from one dog to another. So, do not over stimulate your dog in the first few days. Just let him check things out for and by themselves. Do not fret if they do not bond with you immediately. You must understand that at times it can be a stressful situation for them to try to make themselves comfortable to their new home, so, help them by keeping things calm and positive.

Personal space. Just like with humans, dogs need it too. They are very sociable and friendly but giving them their own space at home will truly matter. Help them out and make them comfortable.  A safe spot or a comfy bed will do wonders. That is their retreat in times when they get tired or overwhelmed.  A haven for them to sleep, rest and stay unbothered by anything or anyone. A personal space, indeed.

Patience is a virtue. Dogs have emotions and own thoughts. Adopting a dog may come easy for you but keeping them takes a lot of patience and tolerance to any situation that may arise. Understand that they need enough time to adjust, to stay calm and start learning the house rules, practice obedience and other important things you will impart to them. Just as how you would be patient with anyone, so should be with your adopted pup.

Get ready with some stomach issues and stress-related physical problems. Don’t doubt yourself on how well you take care of your dog. It really happens regardless of how thriving your care and love for your furry friend. Adapting to a totally new environment can be stressful for them. So, do not panic and just help them out to relieve that stress. Be alert of any signs and symptoms of any physical problem and provide remedy and medication as soon as possible. Common issues like diarrhea and colitis may come up, either from stress or sudden dietary changes. Be mindful when switching their diet and consider slow transition over to a new food by mixing the old in to the new.

Keep a routine. As soon as your dog learns how your home functions, he will get more comfortable and will totally help him adjust better. Hence, sticking to a routine will help a lot. Consider maintaining routines for feeding at the same time of the day, bringing them outside for potty breaks, going out at the same time for some walks, and going to bed at almost the same schedule every night. Oops, do not forget the cuddle time!

Adopted dogs are gifts for our souls!  They breathe all new life into us, our home, and our families. They deserve our patience and love to make their new tenancy on life wonderful! After all, they also make our lives happier and more meaningful.





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