Bringing a dog into your home is an exciting and joyful time, but it can also be a source of stress and worry. Preparation is essential to ensure a successful and harmonious integration of your new companion.
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Preparing the environment
Before your dog arrives, it is important to prepare your home by securing the premises and providing a space adapted to his needs.
Secure the house : Make sure that dangerous or fragile items are out of reach of your dog. This includes medications, household products, electrical cables, and small items that can be swallowed.
Arranging a personal space : Choose a quiet and comfortable place to put your dog's bed. It is also recommended to provide a space for relaxation and play, as well as a corner reserved for food and water.
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Provide the necessary equipment
- A basket or cushion to sleep
- Bowls for food and water
- Toys adapted to his size and his chewing needs
- A leash and a harness or collar for walks
- Bags to collect faeces
- Brushes and combs adapted to your dog's coat
- Treats for education and reward
3. Learn about education or call on an educator
Positive education is a method based on positive reinforcement, which involves rewarding good behaviors rather than punishing bad ones. This approach is gentle and effective in training your dog.
Use treats, caresses, or praise to encourage and reinforce desired behaviors. Be patient and consistent in your approach.
Instead of punishing your dog for engaging in unwanted behavior, ignore it. This will teach him that this behavior is not bringing him anything positive.
The clicker is a small box that emits an audible “click”. You can use it to precisely mark and reward desired behavior.
The first few days at home
The first few days are crucial for establishing a relationship of trust and love with your dog.
When you bring your dog home, Give them time to explore their new surroundings. Accompany and guide him in discovering his new space while remaining calm and reassuring.
Establish a daily routine for meals, walks, games, and rest. This will help your dog feel safe and understand what is expected of them.
Gradually introduce your dog to other members of the family, including other animals. Encourage positive interactions and always supervise initial encounters.
Expose your dog to a variety of situations, people, and other animals in a positive and gradual manner to promote adaptation and socialization.
4. Preventing behavior problems
Take early action to prevent behavior problems by watching your dog closely and intervening quickly to redirect unwanted behaviors.
Encourage your dog to defecate outside by praising and rewarding him when he does it right. Be patient and consistent.
Identify the triggers for your dog's barking and try to mitigate or eliminate them. Teach him to calm down on command using positive education techniques.
Ensure that your dog has positive and regular interactions with other dogs to prevent aggressive or fearful behaviors.
5. Veterinary follow-up
Make sure your dog is in good health by getting him checked out regularly by a veterinarian. Stick to the schedule of vaccinations and antiparasitic treatments, and consult your veterinarian in case of health problems.
Preparing for the arrival of a dog at home by using a positive education approach allows you to establish a healthy and harmonious relationship with your new companion. By taking the time to prepare the environment, to educate and socialize your dog, and by ensuring regular veterinary follow-up, you will contribute to his well-being and his development in your home.
