So, you finally took the plunge. You’ve opted to adopt and now you almost have to bring your new best friend home. A lot of people are under the impression that it is not necessary to apply specific training or commands to shelter dogs. This is however not the case. Just like you would let your new puppy know that biting the couch is not acceptable, you need to let your new rescue know that certain behavior is not allowed.
In this article, we uncover common mistakes people make when they take their adopted dog home for the very first time.
1. Allowing Certain Liberties
If you bring your new rescue home and he gets on the couch, you’ll allow it because he needs some comfort after being in a shelter. Instead of allowing liberties you would otherwise not, calmly point out that it is unacceptable behavior. Point your new pup in the direction of the space where he is allowed to get comfy and if he stays, praise and reward him.
2. Not Getting into a Routine
Your new buddy looks chilled, so you don’t have to worry about taking him out for walks too often. Don’t do this. It is important that you establish a routine where exercise and stimulation is included from the get-go. This will ensure that once your new friend has settled in, they’ll be able to adapt and continue as normal.
3. Not Enforcing Boundaries
While you may think that your new best friend needs to have some freedom after being kept in a cage, this is not the case. Enforcing boundaries will teach him what is acceptable behavior. Dogs need structure and boundaries to learn what is acceptable behavior. Letting a new rescue to his own devices may lead to chaos.
4. Spoiling Him Rotten
This goes for treats, toys and just about any other liberties they may want to take at their new home. Allowing your new rescue these things will only result in catastrophe with you not knowing how to control his behavior. For example, chew treats like bully sticks are your pet’s favorite but that doesn’t mean that you’ll give him multiple sticks in a day. Be sure to show enough attention and allowing them to have specific items at pre-determined times.
5. Allowing Free Reign
Allowing free reign on doing whatever he pleases means allowing him to be attached to you, giving you kisses, jumping up and other types of behavioral problems. Curb this problem from the get-go by providing your new pooch with his own space and allowing him to observe how things are done. Don’t get overly excited and praise him only when he does something that adheres to house rules.
It’s very easy to fall in the trap of allowing certain liberties when you’re bringing home a rescue dog. Avoid falling in this trap and recognize the reality that even though he too needs love and support, he also needs to understand the dynamics and what is acceptable behavior.
Here’s another informative article on how to set boundaries if you need some extra tips and advice.
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