Caring for a dog is an extremely rewarding experience, but bringing one into your home is a big adjustment – even if you have or have previously owned a dog. Whether it’s a playful young puppy, a mature adult, or a senior companion, the transition can feel overwhelming at first. The good news: a little preparation, proper vet care, and of course, patience, can go a long way in helping you and your new dog feel settled.
To set you up for success, we’ve put together a checklist to guide you through every step of taking care of your family’s latest addition, from ensuring your home is ready to getting your dog proper training and beyond.
Before You Bring Your Dog Home
- Set Up a Designated Space for Your Pet: Create a safe, welcoming environment for your new pup by creating a space just for them – ideally in the location where you want them to sleep. Make sure you have a dog bed or appropriately sized crate (most dogs do well in a wire crate, but some may feel more secure in a travel-style crate with solid sides). Finally, see if you can get bedding or toys from the previous home or shelter where the dog lived, as the familiar scent will make them feel more comfortable.
- Remove Hazards: Dogs of all ages can get into mischief, so make sure any cleaning supplies, medications, poisonous plants, and other toxic materials have been safely stored away.
- Get their food ready: Check with the shelter, rescue, breeder, or previous owners to know which food your dog has been eating. You don’t have to stick to the same brand or type but starting them out on the same food may help ease the transition*. Keep in mind your dog may skip meals on the first day or two in their new home as they adjust. You can try mixing in some canned food to make their meals more appealing. As long as your dog is drinking water and remaining active, a temporary dip in appetite is okay.
- *If you plan to switch their food, consult a veterinarian beforehand or wait until after your first vet visit. When switching diets, a common approach is to start with two-thirds of the current food and one-third of the new food for 3–4 days. Then shift to a 50/50 mix for a few more days, followed by one-third shelter food and two-thirds new food until the transition is complete.
Picking Up Your New Dog:
- Bring Someone Along: Ideally you are able to bring a spouse, family member, or friend with you to pick up your new companion so that you are able to sit with them during the ride home.
- Practice Car Safety: Dogs can be unpredictable in the car, making it important to safely confine your furry friend in a crate, carrier, or seatbelt harness.
- Head Straight Home: Bringing your new dog straight home gives them the best chance to settle in calmly. Avoid extra errands along the way and have everything prepared so their first experience is smooth and welcoming.
When You Arrive Home:
- Keep Them Leashed: Let them use the bathroom while on their leash and keep them leashed until all doors and gates are closed, and they have safely had a chance to explore.
- Introduce them to other household members and pets: Continue to use the leash to slowly and carefully introduce them to children and other pets. Introduce them to other pets outside on neutral ground. This should be a quick meet and greet. When they are back inside, keep pets separate until they familiarize themselves with each other’s scents.
Next Steps After Bringing a New Dog Home
- Expect an Adjustment Period: A new environment can create feelings of fear, excitement, and anxiety, and dogs need time to get used to their new normal. Avoid overwhelming them with too much attention right away and allow them to get to know you at their own pace. Calm walks and quiet bonding moments are a great way to help them feel safe and secure.
- Choose a Veterinarian: If you haven’t already selected a veterinarian, now’s the perfect time to start building that relationship and book your first appointment. For puppies, the first visit may include vaccinations, microchipping, and a discussion about spaying or neutering. Older dogs, on the other hand, will benefit from a full health assessment and a personalized wellness plan. Read our blog for more information on What to Expect at Your First Vet Visit.
At Faithful Friends Veterinary Clinic, we recommend that all new patients come in for a complete pet wellness exam. While we personalize care for every pet, we also provide general recommendations depending on their stage of life to make sure your dog receives exactly what they need. Learn more about our recommendations for your pet on our website.
- Ensure Proper Identification: Dogs can be master escape artists, so don’t fully rely on a leash or fenced-in backyard to keep them from running away. Prioritize getting them a collar with a clear ID tag first and consider getting them microchipped if they aren’t already for added peace of mind. Most rescue organizations, shelters, and vet clinics are equipped with scanners that make it easy to identify microchipped pets if they become lost. For more on the process and benefits of microchipping, read our article: The Modern Method for Pet Safety.
- Prioritize Exercise: Create an exercise routine that aligns with your dog’s energy level and breed recommendations to keep them physically and mentally engaged. Use enrichment activities like interactive puzzles, games, and toys to provide mental stimulation. A regular exercise and play routines help your dog feel secure and support healthy behavior.
- Regular Appointments/Grooming: Along with regular veterinary appointments, establish a grooming routine that keeps your dog’s coat and skin healthy. Each breed has different grooming needs, so take time to learn what your dog requires. Dental care, for example, is an often-overlooked part of a dog’s grooming routine despite having a significant impact on your dog’s overall health. Good oral hygiene helps prevent more serious health issues down the road. To learn more, visit our blog: Caring For Your Pet’s Dental Health.
- Quality Time: While it’s important to give your dog some space early on, dedicating time to bond with them is also essential. In the first days and weeks, you can build trust through gentle play, shared routines, and positive reinforcement (yes, that means treats!). It is also important to remember that building trust and adapting to a new environment takes time – especially with shelter dogs or those that have been neglected and abused. Continue to show patience, consistency, and unconditional love throughout this process.
- Behavioral Observation: As your new pup gets more comfortable at home, keep a close eye on their behavior. Signs of stress, anxiety, or discomfort may surface as they settle in. If you’re unsure what’s normal or how to help, reach out to a professional or read our article on understanding your dog’s behavior.
- Consider Professional Training: If your dog is showing signs of behavioral issues or you simply want to learn how to better communicate with them, reward-based training can help. Our partners at Buckeye Dog Training offer all in-house training to help dogs struggling with basic obedience to separation anxiety and aggression.
Dog ownership has a learning curve, but there are many helpful resources and dedicated professionals that can help you navigate the ins and outs as a new pet parent – including the Faithful Friends team. From wellness exams to dental care and surgical services, we’re proud to be part of your journey.
Ready to book your pet’s first appointment? Contact us today.
