Having a family pet can bring countless benefits. Having a dog at home can encourage your children to spend more time outdoors, teach them about responsibility, and build their confidence. Adults can also benefit from pet ownership as this responsibility can reduce stress, as well as lower their blood pressure and improve their mental health.

A new dog can strengthen the bond among family members, but bringing one at home requires a lot of preparation. Deciding to become a pet owner is like deciding to have another child in the family again. A pet will require time and attention, just like what you do with babies as they grow. Your inability to cater to your dog’s needs can result in stress to the pet and your family.

If you want the entire family to enjoy the experience of having a pet, take note of these tips when bringing a new dog to your family:

1. Have A Family Meeting

Being a pet owner demands long-term commitment, which is why you should make sure that everyone in the family is willing to take on this responsibility. It’ll be challenging for your dog to remain happy and healthy if your family often refuses to take on the duty of feeding and playing with the new pet.

To prevent this problem from happening, have a family meeting weeks before the dog arrives at your house. It’s important to determine who among the family will be the primary caretaker of the new pet. Moreover, the family should also set up house rules concerning the pet. Is the dog allowed to stay or sleep on the bed, or lie down on the pieces of furniture in the living area? What rooms of the house are permanently off-limits to the dog? Ask the opinions of your family members before coming up with a decision to ensure that everyone is on the same page.

2. Stock Up On Supplies

Your dog will need a lot of things in order to stay healthy in your home. As mentioned, dogs are very similar to human beings, which means that they, too, need essentials for them to live comfortably and healthily.

When bringing a dog into your family, stock up on their dog first. You can ask a vet to determine which type of food is best for your fur baby’s age and breed. You should also do the same if you plan on giving human food to your new pet. It’s common for first-time pet owners to have questions, such as the following:

What human foods are dangerous to my dog?
Can dogs eat cranberries?
How about apples?

For such queries, it’s best if you consult pros for answers.

Aside from your dog’s food, it’s also important to stock up on crates, food and water bowls, treats, and a collar and leash weeks before your new pet arrives. A dog bed, some chew toys, and a few odor-removing cleaners are also necessary.

3. Prepare Your Home

Preparing your home will require more work if you’re expecting a puppy. Puppies are naturally energetic and curious, and would love to chew on items that they shouldn’t. And, while this behavior is normal, it’s important to discourage this as early as possible to ensure that your dog doesn’t continue chewing on your slippers and furniture.

As you're preparing your home for a dog, don't forget to create a gated-off living space for them. This space shouldn’t have any valuables to ensure that they won’t damage anything whenever you’re not around. If the family often leaves home for work and school, the dog should be placed in this area to avoid any house accidents.

Ideally, you can turn your kitchen into your pet canine’s living space. This area is usually the center of activity of the household, and placing your dog here won’t make them feel isolated or alone. If you plan to place your dog here, invest in baby gates ahead of time.

4. Remain Calm When Your Dog Arrives

Having a new dog in your home can be very exciting. Dogs are very compassionate and fluffy, and it’ll be hard for anyone to resist their charm. But, regardless of how tempting it is to immediately hug your dog and shower them with affection the moment you pick them up, it’s important not to.

As you pick up the new member of the family, remember to stay calm. Accept the dog into your home, but avoid giving them too much affection or attention yet. Showing too much excitement to your dog during your first meeting will only cause them stress and anxiety.

5. Introduce Your Home

When you arrive at home with your dog, enter the space first and let your dog follow your steps. If possible, let your dog wait or sit as you open the door, and never let them enter first. Teaching your dog to wait for your signal is important as this is what will hone their patience and obedience.

Once inside your home, allow your dog to roam around from room to room. Let the dog sniff around so they can easily get accustomed with their new environment. If your home has stairs, guide your dog in climbing up and down to avoid any injuries. Being hurt on the first day can create a negative impression in your dog’s mind, and can become the reason why they’ll fear being in your home.

6. Find A Good Trainer Or Class

Contrary to popular belief, training your dog is not a luxury, but a necessity. Training is important because this provides mental stimulation that can keep your dog happy and healthy, and serves as an exercise that can physically tire out your dog to help them sleep better in the evening.

When bringing a new dog to the family, make sure to find a good trainer or class, too. Paying for the services of an experienced trainer or attending obedience classes with your dog will enable you to understand your dog better, and can even become a bonding activity for the both of you. Paying for a trainer or class is important, especially if the family never had a pet in the past or if you’re going to welcome a puppy into the family.

Preparation Is Key

Regardless if your family never experienced having a dog in the past, the process of bringing one at home doesn’t have to be stressful. As long as everyone’s prepared for the new member of the family, the entire experience can be rewarding and fun!

Key Tips For Bringing A New Dog Into Your Family