Adopting a dog from a rescue or shelter is exciting, but it requires some preparation. Rescue dogs tend to feel overwhelmed, and they need time, patience, and a supportive environment to adjust to their new home. By setting up your home thoughtfully and understanding their needs, you can make their transition easier.
1. Create a safe and comfortable space
Designate a space in your home as your pup’s safe place to help them decompress and feel secure. This can be a corner in your living room or a separate bedroom if available. The idea is to choose a low-traffic area where your dog can relax without constant disturbances. This will give them the chance to observe and adjust at their own pace. They can come out to visit when they want, and retreat when things get overwhelming.
To create a safe place, put a bed or crate in a quiet corner with the door open so they can go in and out as they please. Crates offer a secure retreat for dogs and many will take to them right away if they haven’t had any bad experiences in the past. Since dogs instinctively like being in a den, crates are the next best thing.
If your shelter dog doesn’t want to go in their crate, don’t force them. Instead, work with a trainer to warm them up to the idea of being in a crate. A professional trainer will help you choose the right crate, make it feel safe, and show you how to encourage your dog to go inside and stay for short periods of time. With professional canine crate training, your dog will come to see their crate as a sanctuary.
2. Dog-proof your home
Just like bringing a baby home, when you bring a shelter dog home, you’ll need to eliminate certain hazards. For example, secure loose electrical cords, put away cleaning supplies, and pick up small objects that might get swallowed. Dogs are notorious for swallowing random things like clothing, sticks, rocks, and other objects. In some cases, it can be life-threatening.
Once you do an initial sweep of your home to remove hazards, create some house rules to ensure everyone is on board with maintaining a safe home. For instance, encourage everyone to put away cleaning supplies immediately after use, and to not leave any small objects lying around. You’ll also want to ensure all food scraps are picked up immediately to prevent your dog from ingesting toxins, like onions.
If you have any areas you don’t want your dog to visit, use baby gates. If you have a cat, there are special devices you can install that attach to the strike plate that allow you to prop open the door just enough for your cat to get through.
3. Introduce family members slowly
Gradually introducing your rescue dog to other family members, including other pets, will prevent overwhelm. Allow your dog to meet people one at a time in a calm setting. Have each family member sit on the floor and let the dog approach them first. Some gentle pats and positive reinforcement will help.
Before introducing your dog to kids, teach your children how to approach the dog gently while respecting their space, and then supervise their interactions. If you have other pets, introduce them in neutral territory and observe their behavior. Gradual introductions are the best way to create positive relationships.
4. Establish a routine
Dogs thrive on consistency, and creating a routine with structure can help your dog feel secure in their new space. Try to create a routine for everything you can, beginning with meals and potty schedules. Feeding your dog at the same time every day and taking them out for potty breaks regularly (every four hours if possible) will make them feel secure and reduce anxiety.
You’ll also want to create set times for exercise and play time. Whether you go for walks around the block or take them to the dog park, they’ll do best when they know what to expect. If your dog doesn’t like being alone, you can train them to become more comfortable being alone by gradually increasing the amount of time they spend by themselves.
Patience and preparation will make your rescue dog happy
Welcoming a new dog into your home requires patience, consistency, and preparation. By creating a safe environment, establishing routines, and getting professional training when needed, you’ll create the foundation for a positive relationship with your pup. Every dog needs to adjust on their own timing, but with a commitment to their wellbeing, you can help them thrive in their new forever home.
