Transition Tips for a Newly Adopted Dog
Congratulations on the adoption of your newest family member! To help your dog more easily adapt to their new home, follow the guidelines below.
Your dog's first week:
1. Doggie-proof your house
Your dog will explore everything, so doggie-proof your house until they demonstrate the desired behaviors. Anything within your pet's reach is fair game, including shoes, kids' toys, and table legs. If you can't move it, keep your pet away by using gates, pens, or a crate.
2. Establish house manners
The first few days may be overwhelming for your new pup. Allow the dog to check out the house on-leash and then supervise them for the first few days. Don't be surprised if they offer behaviors like panting, pacing, house-training accidents, and excessive drinking, chewing, or even sleeping. Praise behaviors you like and prevent or ignore behaviors you don't like.
3. Establish a routine
Dogs thrive on routine, so make sure all family member know the dog' schedule and are consistent with follow-through. This includes schedules for feeding, going potty, and reinforcing behaviors.
4. Introduce new potty behaviors
When you bring your new dog home, take them on-leash to the yard for a potty break. Pick a special place and encourage them to relieve themselves there. Be on the lookout for behaviors that signal your dog may need to potty. Don't allow them the opportunity to wander the house unsupervised until they've shown you they know the house rules. Try to catch mistakes ahead of time or interrupt them and run the dog outside where they can be praised for going in the right spot. The more vigilant you are now, the more reliable your dog will be later.
5. Avoid digestive upset
Changing homes can create digestive issue like gas, diarrhea or vomiting. Transition to new foods slowly, and use a digestive aid to prevent stomach upset.
6. Make a vet appointment or visit a VIP wellness clinic
VIP Petcare Wellness Centers are located inside select Pet Food Express stores and come with a more traditional veterinary setting. You can find all services available at VIP's weekend veterinary clinics and more.
petfood.express/wellness-centers/
7. Sign up for dog training classes
Check to see what store in your area offers training
petfood.express/stores/
New Dog Checklist:
A useful list to get you moving in the right direction.
Basics
✔ A loving dog
Local rescues and shelters are always full of them! Not sure you're ready? Start as a foster and work your way up!
✔ Food
- Human grade frozen meals
- Frozen/dehydrated/freeze-dried
- Canned - Packed with meat and moisture
- Kibble - Meat should be first ingredient
✔ Bowls
Stainless steel or ceramic to prevent bacteria build-up
✔ Bed or kennel pad
Supervise to prevent chewing
✔ Collar & leash
✔ I.D. tag
We can engrave them for you in minutes
✔ Calming Aids
Training
✔ Puppy/Dog training classes
✔ Kennel, crate or pet carrier & exercise pen
✔ Training tools
Treat pouches, training harnesses, collars
Grooming
✔ Pet wash tokens
We'll clean the mess!
petfood.express/self-service-pet-wash/
✔ Flea protection
✔ Brushes
A sales associate can help you pick the right one
✔ Nail trimmers & styptic powder
Trim nails monthly
✔ Toothbrush & toothpaste, dental supplements
Sanitation
✔ Stain & odor remover
Accidents happen so be prepared!
✔ Poop bags
Poo Smart bags are convenient & affordable
✔ Potty pads
Pee Smart pads protect the floor while house training
Treats, Toys, & Chews
Let us help you choose the right toys for your dog's chewing needs.
✔ Chews like bully sticks and raw bones
✔ Treats
Should be small, convenient and irresistible!
✔ Toys:
- Stuffable - Keep a busy dog out of trouble by making him work for his meals
- Plush - Ideal for cuddling and soothing
- Interactive - Great for burning energy and staying fit
