Your New Puppy
PictureQuest
Removed from his home and thrust into a new family, your dog might miss his old, familiar surroundings, especially if he was taken from his litter. Many people assume that their dog will sleep at the foot of their bed, or on the floor in a warm room. This might be the case, but only after the dog has settled in and feels secure. To help ease transition, get a crate (wire or plastic) or a comfortable dog bed or pillow. Line the crate with a warm, washable blanket, drape a portion of it with another fabric for privacy, and keep some toys inside. Dog beds and pillows should be washable, and large enough to let your pooch stretch out. Always remove your dog's collar before he enters the crate, and never leave him inside for more than a few hours, unless it's overnight and you're there. Place the crate in a corner of the family room, or some other quiet area where the dog can feel like he's part of the family. As an added bonus, your dog's natural instinct to keep his sleeping spot clean will help ensure that there won't be any messes.
For the first night, some people keep a ticking clock near their dog's sleeping area to approximate the sound of his mother's and littermates' heartbeats. Others leave a radio on so the dog won't feel alone. If your new family member cries or whines continuously, check on him. He might just need the reassurance that he's not alone.
Find Your Perfect Pet
Comments