By: Mary Casey
Imagine being a new baby in new surroundings, separated from your mother and siblings. Or being a foster child, moving from family to family and having to learn about new places and new people. Now you can picture how your new puppy or dog from a shelter feels when introduced into your household. Besides the usual preparations for bringing home a new dog such as providing food, water and a safe environment, you will want to create a bond with your new pet.
Bonding with a new dog will not happen overnight, although some people and dogs seem to hit if off as soon as their eyes meet. You will need to be prepared to spend some time and effort with your new family member, but the rewards from creating a strong bond will last a lifetime.
Here are some simple tools for establishing a life long bond with your dog:
1) Before you go to get your dog, pick out a soft, big, warm shirt you wouldn't mind giving up. Sleep in that shirt for a week or so, and don't wash it. When you get your new dog, put the shirt in the dog's new bed, or in his crate. That way he will learn your smell, and draw comfort from it.
2) Let your dog stay in your bedroom at night, although not necessarily on your bed! He will feel safe in his dog crate or dog bed in your room.
3) Spend some time with your dog , one on one. Now is the perfect time to start some positive feedback while training your dog new behaviors. If you have more than one pet, be sure to spend time with your new pet alone, whether on a romp in a meadow, or for a walk along the beach, just you two.
4) Introduce your dog to grooming with a soft brush or brushing glove. Your new pet will enjoy the close contact and also learn what grooming feels like. You can talk to your dog while you groom him, even sing to him, if you want. Maybe he will sing with you.
5) Take your new pet to obedience classes, whether it is a puppy play group, or canine good citizen training. Your dog will enjoy the socialization with other dogs, and the chance to learn something new. An added benefit to taking your dog to class is he will learn you are both his friend, and his leader.
Bonding with your new dog may take time and work, especially with an older dog who has been in a shelter or mistreated previously. However, once you create a sense of trust and closeness with your dog, the bond will only grow stronger with time.
