Mary Allen
In addition to buying these things, you should also prepare and dog-proof your home accordingly. This is especially true when a pup moves in who will nibble on everything from new carpet to dangerous wires. But you should also keep toxic plants and chemicals, such as cleaning agents or pesticides, safe. Also think about which rooms you give your dog access to and what regulations you want to set up: Can the dog go on the sofa? Can he sleep in the bed with you? You should enforce these rules consistently from the start.
A dog moves in and now a very special period begins – both for you and for the four-legged friend. Now is the time to build trust and get the new family member used to their new environment. Find out here what needs to be considered. Even before your animal companion moves in, you should take certain precautions and create a nice home for the dog. This includes the necessary basic equipment, which includes the following:
- collar or harness
- Leash – lead or drag leash: The advantage of the drag leash is that you can give your dog enough freedom of movement, but still have him under control. For young dogs, the leash is initially suitable for learning to walk on a leash.
- Sleeping place: Here you are spoiled for choice – dog bed, sleeping cave, pillow, dog sofa, or basket? Ultimately, what does your dog like best? Caution: It is better to avoid a wicker basket for a puppy, as it could chew on it and injure itself. A place to sleep that is washable is recommended.
- Food and water bowl
- Toys: Provide your dog with a selection of species-appropriate toys that meet your dog’s needs (intelligence, throwing, fetch, or chew toys).
- Chews: Because chewing is soothing, it’s a good idea to give your dog a chew bone or toy every now and then.
- Treats: Healthy treats should of course not be missing in a dog household – whether for reward purposes or just for in between.
Dog Moves in Settling in is Important
Whether it’s a shelter dog or a puppy from a breeder, any dog that is taken out of its familiar environment will initially need a reasonable acclimatization period. This starts with picking up the four-legged friend. It is best to transport the new family member in an appropriate transport box and put it in a quiet place when you arrive at the new home. The newcomer can now decide for himself when he wants to get out of the box and go on a discovery tour – and has a place to retreat again if he feels uncomfortable.
Give your dog enough time over the next few days to get to know you, the other family members, its new territory, your daily routine, and the new environmental stimuli. Show him his new home and where he will find his bowl and basket. You should always talk to him calmly and avoid hasty movements. Depending on the history of your new four-legged friend, he is particularly skittish or does not know certain noises. You probably can’t wait to introduce the new family member to the whole pack, friends, and neighbors – but even that can quickly overwhelm the newcomer.
Tips for a Harmonious Human-Dog Team
Things don’t always run smoothly between dog and owner. Especially the arrival of a puppy is quickly underestimated. The dog is not yet housebroken and requires a much higher level of training than, for example, a dog from an animal shelter, who at least knows the basic commands and – in the best case – is already socialized. If you decide to get a puppy, you should attend dog school right from the start. It is important not to despair at the first problem and to lose yourself in numerous dog guides. The basis for a good human-dog team is respect, consistency, trust, and understanding – if you take these factors into account, nothing stands in the way of a happy life together with a dog.