Your new dog isn’t just a new dog. They are Family. Why not treat them like family?!
Make a list and check it 3 times! Keep reading to make sure your checklist has all the pertinent items for when you bring home your new doggy addition!
Preparing Yourself & Home For Your New Dog
Cheers to life getting even more exciting!
Once you start seriously considering adopting a pooch, there is no turning back.
Seriously. The seed has been planted!
My husband and I did not formally decide that we wanted to adopt a dog, but there was chatter. We bounced funny names back and forth, as well as breeds, and gender.
Then we started going on “dates” [cheese alert] and swinging by the humane society simply because a dog’s happy energy is contagious.
This is where things had become more serious. We were trying, but not trying to adopt a pup. What can I say? We were in the puppy phase of our relationship.
Then, it happened.
Our eyes locked, someone peed out of excitement [hubby denies this part he said it was the pup], and the adoption process began!
At this point, more light should have been shed on the prep work needed to bring a dog home.
The sunny side up part is that a local rescue group had partnered with a local pet store to feature adoptable canines. So when we adopted our pooch, everything we needed was available at our fingertips for purchase.
Since we were sorta kinda on the fence, we did not prepare beforehand to bring this WigglyButt home.
In hind sight, there is a list of physical and mental things we should have considered.
Is preparing for your new dog to come home really necessary? Yes, absolutely!
Some have the perception that if you want a dog, you just go and pick one out, and then life with your new dog will be gravy. Because somehow “OOTB” [out of the box] your dog will be self sustaining after minimal one on one convos with Baxter.
If this is what you are thinking, then definitely check out my post on Major Points To Consider Before Adopting a Dog.
The products I recommend were not placed in my lap for me to review. These are my own unsolicited opinions. Trust me these things will make life easier.
I do receive a small commission if you purchase from one of my affiliate links [and then I use those dolla dolla bills to advocate for rescues and keep WigglyButts.me going strong!]
For what it is worth, you can count on me for honesty [no one has time for fake]. Whether you click on a link, or not, is between you and your furry buddy 😉
Having a dog in your life means that you are ready for an exciting life long bond filled with wet nose kisses! You want to make sure to look into getting a few things like:
- Finding a bomb @$$ name
- Home within a home
- License to bark and roam
- Leash
- Harness
- Entertainment
- Heartworm and flea treatment
- Food
- Love and patience
- And a handful of other considerations…
//1//
What's in a name?
Does your dog already have a name? No? Well you better get on it! There are so many names to choose from or you can just make something up.
IF your dog already has a name, but has been rescued from a terrible situation, then it may be a good idea to recondition your new dog to a new name. This way there isn’t any animosity attached to the name.
You definitely want your dog to be comfortable with what they are hearing, otherwise Baxter may not want to come to you when called.
Have fun with this! Every member of the family needs a name. The perfect name is one that YOU will remember and will elicit positive response from your dog. Get creative!
The name you choose for your buddy should be easy to understand. If Baxter does not understand what you are saying, then creating a bond becomes increasingly difficult. Pick a name that is unique, that has positive vibes, and that is easy for you to say.
Note to self: It isn’t uncommon for dogs to think their name is “NO!” That is a word that is easy to say, and they may hear it often.
A good name may reflect characteristics or the personality of your companion. It is always great when your dog’s name becomes a conversation piece.
Time to be imaginative with some one or two syllables names! Think about that time you were walking down the street and heard someone call for their dog and you thought to yourself “Oh poop! Why didn’t I think of that name?”
Realistically, you WILL have to chase after your dog, yell your dog’s name in public, and introduce people to your buddy.
Picture yourself running through the park chasing after, and calling for your dog.
“Frankkkkk! Frankkkky! Were are you? Come over here! “
The next thing you know, there is a random person walking your way because he thinks you are calling him since his name is Frank [hopefully he is cute].
Using a human name for a dog is sounding better and better! Hehehe … the possibilities are endless and can be quite funny.
Have any names come to mind? Do you already have a fantastic name for your new dog? Imagine if our dog’s could tell us what they thought about their names
//2//
Space for Baxter to call his/her own
We have our own spaces to feel comfortable and to retreat when we are home. Dogs need somewhere of their own as well. Whether their space is a crate, dog house or dog bed, they need a spot of their own.
Be sure to choose something that is size appropriate because your Great Dane puppy will outgrow that Yorkie crate in a few months!
I highly recommend having a crate or dog house available for your pupper to call their own. Dogs can get overwhelmed too, and having a crate gives them a safe retreat that everyone can respect.
Ask yourself a couple of questions:
- Will your doggo be living indoor, out door or both?
- How large of a dog house/ crate/ or kennel do you need?
- Does your pupper’s crate need multiple entrances?
Great news! There are all kinds of crates, kennels, and dog houses available. Many options are collapsible, which is also great for traveling.
Choosing the right crate or enclosure for your dog is important, because you want them to feel comfortable, have enough space to move around, but not too much space to make messes.
There are crate options that have side walls and a roof, others are not enclosed on top, some are fabric, other pieces fit right in with your home décor!
Collapsible crates are great because they are relatively lightweight and pack well for road trips!
Sizes vary for all crates. You might think there is never enough space in a crate. While it may feel like cramped to you, as long as your pooch can stand comfortably on all fours [or three], sit up straight, and lay down comfortably, that is all the space they need in a crate.
Some crates comes with a divider which allows your puppy to grow into the crate.
Too much space can promote potty breaks in the crate. I am sure the goal is not to have Baxter pee in the crate.
If you need a home within a home for your dog, you can find some great solutions here, here, here, and here.
These options are for small to large dog breeds. Although there aren’t any XL+ options listed here, they do exist!
I cannot stress enough that a crate should never be used as a place for punishment. Do not shove your dog into the crate, or slam the door closed.
The crate is a safe place for Baxter.
Depending on the dog, sometimes covering the crate can give your pupper an enhanced sense of security. We all need a breakout session sometimes. Why should it be any different for your dog?
Be aware, depending on the breed and size of your dog, it is quite possible for them to outgrow their crate!
//3//
identification
It is best to invest in a collar that fits well, can accommodate an identification tag and rabies tag. With that being said, it is time to get a tag!!!
I saw the coolest thing at the dog park the other day. A dog with an ID card.
A literal ID card! And it was attached to their collar. The ID car had the dog’s name, address and microchip number as well. The funny thing is that it looked like a driver’s license. Pretty neat huh?! [Find it here.]
There collars that are available with customization. Meaning you can customize the collar with your dog’s name and your phone number. This is a great option to reduce the amount of tags hanging from your pooch’s collar.
The other nice thing about this collar is that it has reflective bands embedded in the material. Night walking just got a little but safer.
I do not know how Pi did it, but when she was wee tiny little pup, she managed to destroy a couple tags on her collar.
The truth of the matter is, if your buddy goes missing, you will be more lost than they will.
“Call this number:
314-159-2653…
my mum will be lost without me.”
Another form of identification for your new dog is having them microchipped. If your pup gets lost anyone can take Baxter to a vet or the shelter and have the microchip scanned.
Note: some microchips need to be read with specific scanners.
No one can see the chip that is embedded under your pooch’s skin with their bare eyes. Which is why you need both the ID tag and the microchip.
There is always the simple name and contact info on the ID tag. If you want to take it up a notch there are QR ID tags available as well [find it here].
With a QR you’re whomever finds Baxter can simply scan the tag with their phone and you will be alerted that someone has found your beloved fur baby and you will be made aware of their location!
The functionality of these QR ID tags are pretty cool plus there are various designs from which to choose.
Of the simple ID tag, embroidered collar, or the QR ID tag, I have to go with the simple name tag and QR ID tag.
This simple tag slips on to any standard collar and when paired with the QR ID tag, all necessary information is attached to your dog.
I do not know about you, but I am not a fan of randos creeping around at the dog park pretending to play with Pi while they try to get my phone number/ address from my dog’s tag.
By using the QR ID my information is safe at a glance. Sure, these creepers may get some information by scanning the Pi’s tag, but I will also be alerted that someone has scanned the tag. [Just some food for thought.]
Don’t forget to get a collar for your pup! They need something to hold their ID tags and rabies tag. Check out these collars: this one is very simple, this one is super cute yet simple, and this one is awesome for night walking.
//4//
Leash
A four to six feet leash provides better control than a retractable leash.
You may have a curious runner on your hands. Although some dogs may come with good manners, definitely do not take their behavior for granted. It is very easy to undo good manners and habits.
Plus in the beginning, your pup may stay by your side for comfort, but once their curiosity and confidence builds up, expect that canine teenager to want to explore without you! [Do not let your guard down, that is when they pounce!]
Having more that one leash is useful if your dog decides to chew through one, it is covered in mud, or better… it has been pooped on. Nylon leashes are great since they wash well.
Pick a leash with a sturdy clasp, but also comfortable for you to hold onto. If your dog starts pulling on the leash, you want to be able to have a firm grasp take control and correct the behavior.
Retractable leashes promote bad habits; plus you will have less control over a situation when using a retractable leash. Therefore, I do not recommend retractable leashes.
Just get a regular leash. Do not get a retractable leash because you think it is styling and compact. Regular [non-retractable] leashes can by compact and stylish too!
One of these leashes: here, here or here should fit your needs. [The second one is great for runners -wink wink]
You are totally right! The last leash listed is crazy long. yep, it is 50ft long. No, it is not used to take your dog out for a walk.
I included the 50t leash here because it is useful in training for recall and some of you are looking for this leash specifically.
//5//
Harness
Dog collars are not ideal for leash attachment for walks, much less going for a run.
Attaching leashes to collars promotes pulling and can potentially cause tracheal harm to your pooch.
There are various types of harnesses available. You just have to find the one that fits your dog the best. There is a great chance that if you have a puppy, your dog will grow out of their harness. Depending on the breed, your dog may grow in and out of a few sizes.
When finding the right size of harness consider your dog’s weight as well and girth.
What the heck is a girth? Sounds dangerous!
Have you ever checked your waist size? Well measuring your dog’s girth is similar.
Canine girth is the measurement around the rib cage. Meaning what is the circumference of your dog’s chest?
When buying a harness, the packaging usually has a sizing chart for reference. Plenty of times I have chosen the wrong size of EVERYTHING for Pi.
Have you ever heard the saying “dogs are a reflection of their humans?” Well let me tell you, shopping for clothes [for either of us] makes for a ruff day. Can you say Awkward size?!
First world problems… dogs have ’em too.
- With that being said, Pi is a 20lb Schnauzer MIX. She has longggg legs, and a wide chest. According to the girth sizing charts, she should fit in a medium. Sometimes it says small. [She needs a smedium]
I do not typically buy her clothes, but she did need a sweater once. I had to buy her a large, and shrink it in order for it to fit.
Anywho… Harnesses are extremely helpful in teaching your dog’s how to calmly walk on a leash. Harnesses also allow you to have better control over various situations without harming your fur baby.
Depending on the type of harness, the walker [human] can attach the leash to their back, or chest, or sometimes chin.
I cannot recommend any one specific type of harness because the fit is soooooo different for each dog.
We have gone through so many harnesses with Pi and only two seemed to work.
Of the two, we only use the first one more often because it can be used for walks, runs and it came with a car seat belt latch that clips onto the back of the harness!
The second one we use for running and if we will be in large crowds. [She doesn’t like either, but she likes this the least.]
Choosing a harness can be tricky. Shoot me a message if you have questions or want specifics on why certain harnesses did or did not work well. I’ll be happy to explain!
//6//
Toys
Squeakkkkyyy! Squeak! Squaaaak! What kind of toys will keep Baxter occupied?
Boredom is the number one reason why dogs “act out” and destroy your belongings.
Chew toys are essential! Dog’s have to be taught what items are theirs to play with or chew. If they do not have enough stimulation of their own, then expect them to eat your stuff!
Choosing appropriate toys for the size and breed of your dog is important. Choking hazards are real! And if you “oh dog’s dog choke. They’re dogs!” Then, news flash. They can choke and/or end up with a bowl obstruction!
Note: Get to know your dog!
This is not meant to be a scare tactic. We mean well as pawrents, and sometimes play time does not turn out the way you envisioned. With that being said, the chew toys and antlers that I buy for Pi are all large even though the package recommends medium for her size.
Get to know your dog! What kind of play do they like? Chase? Tug? Fetch? Plain ‘ol mischief?
We have a whole bin dedicated to Pi’s toys and we rotate the toys every now and again. She was a destroyer of toys in the beginning, but then we upped our stimulation game.
What I mean is that there was variation in what was available.Pi has been with us for 5 years and counting and she still has some on her very first toys!
What? How is that even possible? Well aside from the fact that I have a plush toy infirmary, where I repair toys, she also has variation.
Meaning: make sure your dog has proper chew toys and buy decent quality toys!!!!!
This is key!
I understand the urge to buy cheap toys because they get destroyed, but cheap toys also pose more harm to your fur baby.
Cheaply made toys, come apart super easily…too easily and then you are back buying more!
Toy essentials:
Regardless of my toy recommendation, figure out what your dog likes best. Figure out how the two of you can play and have fun together, because that is what it is all about!
Now if your dog wears you out, and you just cannot keep up. Or you wish you had more time to give your fur baby the play they deserve… then this is what you need! Trust me the link speaks for itself! [spoiler alert: it is an automatic ball thrower.]
This automatic ball launcher has flaws, but it may be that extra play your dog is looking for.
Pi prefers to play fetch with me vs a machine. She finds this puzzle ball to be far more entertaining [probably because it gives her treats].
//7//
heartworm and flea treatment
While it may be a personal preference to not treat your canine buddy for fleas and ticks, think twice before refusing to prevent heart worms.
There are various prescriptions available for flea, tick and heartworm prevention. Each dog may react differently to the medications, so be sure to speak to your veterinarian before treating or switching treatments.
Fleas, ticks and heartworms all pose a threat to your dog. If your dog ends up with fleas and ticks, you can give them a bath and pick them off at the least. However, if Baxter has heartworms, you will not be able to see them.
Dog’s can get heartworms from mosquito bites. Therefore, if you live in a climate that gets warm/hot and mosquitoes thrive, then the risk of heartworms exist. If you live on Antarctica… then go you! No pesky mosquitoes.
Just remember that fleas, ticks, and heartworms as pose real health risks to your dog! Look out for your dog’s health and treat regularly for heartworms, fleas and ticks.
Ask your vet about recommended treatment to prevent any complications that can be caused by fleas, ticks and heartworms [go now].
//8//
food
Dogs have to eat too [duh!]. Ohhh boy! They sure do have a way to let you know they’re hungry [they all have their own SPECIAL way].
After considering any allergies your new dog may have, you get to pick what they eat on a daily basis. Just like human food, you can buy dog food prepackaged or make it fresh.
When making fresh dog food, you need to be aware of common poisons in the kitchen. Make sure you are aware about what NOT to feed your buddies.
Before you bring your new dog home, find out what they are currently eating and the current feeding routine.
Your dog’s stomach maybe used to their current diet. Switching their food at the drop of a hat can really upset their stomach.
If you decide to switch your dog’s food, it is best to do it gradually. For example: 60% of their original diet with 40% of the new stuff for a week. Then 50/50 for another week. Followed by 60% new diet to 40% old diet for a week. And finally 100% of the new diet in their bowl.
This transition timeline is just a suggestion. Check with your vet on best practices for your dog, because every dog will acclimate at a different rate!
OoOh! Do not forget about a food bowl and a water bowl. Regardless of what your dog eats, they still need a bowl!
If your doggo eats too fast, then consider getting a slow feeder bowl, or an obstacle bowl [like this one or this one]. Another option to slow down eating is to give a little food at a time, or putting a ball in the bowl [unless all they want to do is play with that ball].
What are some other considerations to ensure your sanity, good habits, and comfort for you and your new dog?
Prepare your home [and sanity] for when your WigglyButt comes home. Here are some things to further consider [hind sight 20/20].
>> first day home
Crate or explore upon arrival?
Depending on how well Your WigglyButt has been socialized, the transition into a new environment can be quite stressful. As previously mentioned, I totally recommend having a crate for your dog. It allows them to have a safe space as well as assists in the transition to their new environment.
Right off the bat, Baxter may not understand that this new place is their new home too. Of course they will want to explore, but keep a watchful eye. New environments can trigger new [potentially bad habits] for your new dog.
Until your new dog understands that this is their new home, they may have the urge to pee in the house [marking] or chew on everything.
If your dog is not crate trained yet, this is an aspect of doggy life 101 to learn more about!
>> ground rules
You may not have preferences right away, but hopefully the example below gets your noodles cooking.
So here goes… what happens when Baxter gives you those sweet irresistible eyes to cuddle on the couch with you, or sleep in the bed?
Will you have a special word to let your doggo know that it is okay to hop on to the bed or the couch? Maybe they are allowed to join you anytime or not at all.
Whatever you choose, be consistent. your new dog thrives on consistency. You cannot get mad at them if they did not do what you wanted and what you want is based on flippin n floppin.
Have fun with it!
>> bathroom breaks
Pay attention to your pup. Your new dog will give you cues of when they need to go use the potty. They key to potty training is to learn their cues and get ahead of the bladder.
Be proactive!
There is fun every step of the way, even with potty training. How about training Baxter to ring a bell by the by the door?!
>> pet insurance
There are a good handful of companies that offer insurance for your furry companion. Your new dog isn’t just a new dog. Baxter is Family. Why not treat them like family?!
Vet costs add up. Even though there may be nothing “wrong,” many pet insurance plans cover preventative care.
Browse the inter webs, talk to your vet, and your friends about recommendations, because plans are more affordable than you think.
>> training
Positive reinforcement is key! How consistent will you be in regards to creating and maintaining great pawrenting habits with your pupper?
Perhaps seeking a professional trainer is what you are seeking. Go for it! Dog training is not just for your new dog. Dog training is also for YOU, the human. It is a great reminder on what it means to be consistent and learn new ways to strengthen the bond between you and your pupper.
There is an ever growing amount of information here on tips and tricks for humans and their dogs to help you out in that department [yes, a shameless plug]. But seriously, the internet is a never ending ocean of information and waiting for everyone out there. Go, get it, and put it into action.
summary
Yes, there is plenty to think about. There is always so much to think about when it is something fabulous!
Tripple check your list! Do have have everything you need for your new dog addition?
- Food
- Bed…no worries,your new pup will just take your bed 😉
- Love
- Chew toy
Bring your new doggo home and start a new adventure!
Do you have everything you need to make the transition for yourself as well as your new buddy a breeze?
Did I miss something totally awesome or life changing that needs to be mentioned?!?!
What are somethings that you had to do to prepare for your new dog that I missed? Let me know below if you used this list to help guide you with your new addition!
Have fun! Isn’t that what it is all about!
