Building trust and breaking down aloofness with your newly adopted dog can sometimes be a slow and daunting process. But we’re here to help! Please use our checklist to help you bond with and build confidence in your newly adopted dog! Checklist: How to Bond with an Aloof Dog
It takes time for a new adopter and new adoptee to learn about each other, especially a new dog that is likely stressed, anxious and not sure what to expect. It may take a few weeks or even a couple of months for your new dog to “learn the ropes”, begin to trust and relax in his/her new household. Keep in mind that you’re trying to teach your dog good lifetime habits and that won’t happen overnight. Please be patient! Your dog is depending on YOU!
Use this checklist to: 1) set your own expectations as to what it truly means to “be patient” with your dog; and 2) learn about or further refine your own “being patient” tools and methods. This checklist can be used for newly adopted dogs or as a refresher since we all need “refreshing” every now and then. Checklist: How to be More Patient with Your Dog
Adopting the right dog is a decision that is more important than you think. Just go to any animal shelter to see the countless homeless dogs that ended up there because they were a mismatch for their adopting families or their families did not anticipate the level of responsibility needed to care for a dog. To avoid adding to the existing problem of homeless pets, think through your decision to adopt a dog and make sure you pick the right dog for your household.
To assist you, please use our Advice by Amy questionnaire to: 1) privately review your personal situation; and 2) share your specific “dog requirements” with Amy to help her ensure the best fit. Questionnaire: How to Choose the Right Dog
At Amy’s Adoptables we’re oftentimes asked, “How do I introduce a new dog to our current dog(s)?”
All introductions should occur in a structured, safe environment and at a pace that is comfortable to everyone. Introductions should be thought of as a process, not a one-time, high-stakes encounter. Remember…your current dog(s) (or cat) may not share your eagerness and excitement as you welcome the new member of your family into your home. Plan ahead, go slow, be safe and think “long term”.
To assist you, please use our Advice by Amy checklist provided here: How to Introduce a New Dog