Creating the Perfect Environment for Your Pawed Pal
How to make your dog feel comfortable and at home from day one
Getting a dog is exciting. All you can think about is getting the little guy home and the companionship they will bring. Despite this, there’s plenty to take care of so that your four-legged friend has a home he can thrive and be happy in. Here are our top tips for creating a canine-friendly environment.
Part 1: Before your dog arrives
1. Stock up on supplies
There’s plenty of stuff your dog will need and enjoy itself, so take the opportunity to buy items like food, toys, a bed, a lead, and much more. This way you’ll never be caught short, and your dog will never go without.
2.Sort out a safe haven
Your dog needs an area it can call its own. Set up an area for a dog bed and food bowls so your dog can truly feel like your home is also theirs. This will help them feel comfortable from the outset.
3. Make your home dog friendly
Your dog should be able to roam the house without you worrying – about your possessions or any danger to your dog. Remove small items that your puppy could choke on and potentially gate off certain areas of the house that you don’t want your dog to visit. Also think about where you place any fragile items.
Part 2: Once your dog has moved in
1.Introduce them to their surroundings
Dogs are like humans in that they’re cautious of the unknown and strangers at first. You should create a calm, quiet environment for the first few days your dog is home and hold off on having guests over – even if they can’t wait to meet your puppy.
2. Create a routine
Dogs are creatures of habit. Without a fixed routine, they can feel confused and unnerved. It’s always best to give your dog consistency by setting meal times, bed times, and walks at similar points in the day.
3. Get started with training
Basic training should start as soon as your dog arrives – and ties into creating a routine. While you might not be taking your dog to classes for a while, you should start toilet training your puppy from day one.
4. Take care of insurance
Dog liability insurance is mandatory in six German states, but advised in every state. Take care of this as early as you’re able to register your dog. This means you don’t have to worry about what your dog does while it finds its feet.
