Adopting a Dog: Tips for Success

Published A Few Days Ago
ADVERTISEMENT

Start things off on the right paw with your rescue dog with these tips for success

If you decide to adopt a dog, you obviously want everything to go as smoothly as possible and end up a resounding success. Before you can even get a dog home, you’ll have to be successful in your application to adopt. This shouldn’t be too hard, but it’s once you’ve got your new pooch home that the real fun starts. Some dogs will happily settle into their new home without so much as a howl, but other dogs need lots of love and support during this transition period.

Jumping Through Hoops

If you want your application to adopt to be successful, you have to be prepared to jump through a few hoops. Metaphorically, that is, there’s generally no fitness test! Remember that rescue dogs have often been through a lot, so the staff at the shelter just want to make sure that they’re going to a loving, forever home, with an owner who is a good match for their needs. Make sure you answer any and all questions they ask you thoroughly. You should also expect to have a home visit, this is so they can make sure you are who you say you are and aren’t just hoping to make off with a rescue dog, never to be seen again, and is also to make sure that your home and garden are suitable for the dog you want to adopt.

Give Her Some Space

Stick to a Schedule

You can imagine how confusing things can be for a rescue dog. Your new pooch may well have been passed from pillar to post before ending up at the shelter. Now you’re offering her a permanent home, but she doesn’t know that yet. To help her settle in, you should stick to a schedule, with regular walks and feeding times, so she knows what to expect. With a regular schedule, she’ll more quickly get used to the swing of things in her new home.

Bonding With Your Dog

A lot of rescue pups have trust issues, so it’s important to try to bond with your new four-legged friend. There are all kinds of ways you can improve the bond between you and your pooch, so it’s best if you can give a few different methods a go, or combine a bit of everything. One of the easiest ways to do this is simply to spend a lot of time with your new dog, touching, stroking and just hanging out with her. Gentle grooming sessions are also a great idea, as many dogs find being brushed extremely enjoyable. Training your pup to obey some simple commands or going to an obedience training class can also be an ideal way of bonding. Just be sure to use positive reinforcement training methods, where good behavior is rewarded and bad behavior is ignored. Playing interactive games, such as fetch and tug-of-war, go a long way toward showing your new dog that you’re a fun and awesome person to be with.

ADVERTISEMENT

ADVERTISEMENT

You May Like

Sorraia Horse

The Sorraia Horse is an ancient breed from the Iberian Peninsula. Once trained, the Sorraia horse could make a wonderful companion.
Best Small Dog Dresses

Small dog dresses make petite pooches look super cute on special occasions - take a look at our selection of best small dog dresses for a perfect pick!
4 Tips About What To Do When You Find A Lost Dog

There''s nothing more heartbreaking than when a family pet disappears. Here''s what to do if someone''s lost dog has wandered into your care.
The Basics About Dog Body Language

Your pooch doesn''t need to say a word for you to understand what he''s feeling. Understanding dog body language tells you everything you need to know.
Product Review: Burt’s Bees Multicare Dental Foam and Dental Spray

Misfit the Pitbull tests out two new dog dental care products for us February is Dog Dental Health Month, and to celebrate, we wanted to test out a new produ…
Does My Dog Need Winter Boots?

Yes, those cute little booties are more than a fashion statement – if you’ve been questioning their efficacy, read on to find out if your pet could use a pair of nice winter boots to keep their paws snug and warm.
Bardino Majorero

The Bardino Majorero was traditionally used as a cattle dog and livestock guardian. This means he can sometimes be aloof or even aggressive around strangers
Best Harnesses For Miniature Huskies

This mini breed has the same wanderlust their Siberian parents, so we''ve compiled a list of the 10 best harnesses for Miniture Huskies to keep them safe.
Rat Terrier

A small dog with a big heart and large amount of energy, the Rat Terrier is a loyal, active and playful breed that fits into a variety of households.
What Is Feline Hyperesthesia Syndrome?

A condition that can prove to be uncomfortable in cats, feline hyperesthesia syndrome cause increased skin sensitivity.
Liam J. Perk Foundation: Dog Safety Awareness And Education For Famili

After an unthinkable tragedy, the Perk family transformed their sorrow into a foundation that educates parents and kids about living with dogs After darkness…
The Dog Scout’s Guide To Dog First Aid Kits

Always be prepared! Having Dog First Aid Kits stashed where you need them most will ensure you can treat your dog for injuries if he ever gets hurt.
For Homemade Dog Biscuits, Bo’s Hempaw Cookie Mix Will Give Dogs The

Dude, these cookies are so good! After one batch of these homemade dog biscuits, your dog will have the munchies for these munchies.
Biden Rescue Pooch Gets V(I)P Treatment On Air Force Two

Talk about a new leash on life! From the streets of Mississippi to the chambers of Air Force Two, this rescue dog is definitely living the high life with the…
Winter Coconut and Cranberry Dog Treat Recipe

Deck the halls with festive dog treats! Coconut and cranberries combine to make an irresistible homemade cookie for dogs who have been nice this year.