Settling Your Dog In

Bringing home a rescue dog is an exciting time, but in the midst of everything don't forget what the transition is like for the new addition. Some dogs adjust to their new home very quickly, while others might take longer to settle. So while you are coping with the changes that the new dog in your life will bring, your dog is doing the same.

The best time to bring a rescue dog into your home is when at least one member of your family has time to spend with him during the adjustment period – two weeks if possible. It is never advisable to get a new dog if you and other family members are out of the house all day during the transition period; nor is it recommended that you stay at home 24/7 showering your dog with affection, only to suddenly leave for hours on end when you go back to work. You can achieve a healthy balance by giving him space to investigate, explore and experience his new surroundings and then give him attention when you feel he needs it. Gradually exposing him to being away from you for short periods of time will allow him to cope much better when left on his own for longer.

The risk of losing your new dog is high at time of adoption!

I think everyone will agree that most dogs like to run free. However every time your dog escapes there is the possibility of a tragic ending.
A dog that has lived in a shelter for a long time will welcome the opportunity to run free. He/she has not settled into their new life yet and everything is strange and exciting. Some dogs will never have lived in a family environment and this can be very daunting for them.

Outside influences e.g. people, a cat, another dog, a motorbike, children etc will seem very interesting when they have been stuck in a shelter all their lives and they will naturally want to investigate and look for a way to do so.

Some animals hate fireworks, thunder and other sudden, loud noises and may be frantic to bolt!

New adopters need to be particularly vigilant and take measures to make sure their new dog is secure, as bolting is a common problem.​

It might take a while to find the right dog for your family but if you are diligent in your search, you and your dog will reap the rewards.

Here are some tips that will help with those first critical days!

Before you bring your dog home

Once you have chosen your dog (or puppy) make sure that you have prepared everything at home before you bring him back! Getting bedding, collars, leads, food, toys and anything else you will need for your new pet is better got before he comes home with you. Also, if you have a garden, it is wise to ensure that it is secure, you don't want to lose him, now you have him! If you are going to let him use a terrace or balcony, ensure again it is secure, he cannot jump over any walls, and that there is shelter for the hot, and the cold weather. Also remember, NO dog should spend hours alone on a balcony or terrace!

Going home

When you have made your choice, and you are ready to take him from the shelter, take him straight home. As tempting as it is to stop off to show your new dog to friends and family, the sooner you get the dog home, the sooner they can settle into their new lives. Providing calm and routine will make this happen a lot quicker.

Ensure Security

Make sure that the dog is on a lead at all times during the time you are taking the dog home. Maybe bring someone along to help with the dog in the car, easier to deal with a nervous and unsure dog! This will help too with moving from the car to the house without worrying the dog may try to bolt!

Don't Rush!

Once you are home, don't rush to take him in, let the dog have a good sniff around outside in the garden/patio/balcony, (on the lead) hopefully he will want to relieve himself, which will help him understand where he is to go later!

Inside the House

When you go inside the dog should still be on the lead for a while in order to slowly introduce him to the new environment. Lead him to where his bed is, show him where the water bowl/feeding bowl is, and generally let him ‘feel his feet’ Only remove the lead when you feel the dog is comfortable, but remember to keep doors shut to the outside, just in case!

Introduce slowly

Try not to overwhelm him, these first few days are quite scary! If possible, introduce the dog to each family member separately. That way he’ll have the opportunity to get to know the sight and smell of each individual. Don’t try to rush things, and expect to have a few days of adjustment! (For you and the dog!)

Any Problems?

If, after a settling in period, you are experiencing any sort of problem, look for help! There is nothing wrong with saying things are not quite what you expected, and sometimes just talking to an experienced trainer/behaviourist can sort out the problem, that’s what we’re here for!

New Dog Checklist

1. Are your doors and windows secure? Do you teach your children and ask your visitors to make sure the gate is shut?

2. Can your dog jump over the fence/gate?

3. Are there potential ‘escape routes’ underneath the fence?

4. Have you trained your dog basic commands e.g. stay/sit etc?

5. What do you do when you have visitors? Is there a ‘safe’ room where you can put your dog whilst you are seeing your visitors to the door?

6. Is your dog lonely and bored? If so, he/she will look for distractions.

7. We would all agree it is lovely to see your dog running free after being cooped up in a shelter for a long time but don’t be tempted too early in your relationship to unclip the leash. Make sure he/she is sure of their way home. Try and complete some basic training before taking the chance of letting your dog run off-lead. If your dog does refuse to come back, don’t chase the dog and beware of turning it into a game. Walk away, gently calling the dog’s name.

Recommendations

1. Ensure your dog has plenty of exercise – dogs do need a lot of sleep (around 15 hrs per 24) therefore will be less likely to escape if they have had a good walk.

2. Play with your dog at every opportunity using toys like a ball or Frisbee for stimulation. Make this time safe and enjoyable and again your dog will be less likely to want to bolt and this will assist the bonding process.

3. If you are at work for long periods think about what your dog will do during this time. Walk your dog before you go out, alternate toys, think about a doggie day care centre or hiring a dog walker.

4. Make sure your new dog is chipped and registered with your current phone number for easy identification. A good idea is the collar disc with your current telephone number inscribed.

What to do if your dog is lost

1. Contact local shelters and vets

2. Print out photos/leaflets and share on local media groups.

3. If you happen to see your dog and he refuses to return when you call him/her and runs off (very common with new dogs and not your fault), try to distract the dog with food or a toy. If the dog has been missing for a while, they may be feeling nervous and disorientated. Walk up slowly and make a big fuss of him/her when they do return (even though you may be feeling angry). Call gently. If the dog thinks you are angry he/she will have less reason to return.