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Your new dog or puppy

Tips to help your pooch get off on the right paw

Getting set up

It's a great idea to set up for your new pet before adopting. Put your dog's bed, bowl and toys in a quiet space in your home that they can call their own. If you've got other pets, make sure that your new dog can sleep and eat in peace.

Your new dog will need:

  • Food and water bowls
  • Warm bedding
  • Toys
  • A collar with an engraved tag
  • A harness and lead
  • High-quality food

You can get all of this and more from our Pet Shop at AWL.

Travelling

Once you've met and adopted your fur-baby, take them straight home and don't make any stops along the way. The sooner your new dog is home and settling in, the happier they'll be.

Spending time

If you can, try adopting when you've got a few days to spend with your new dog to help them settle in.

On the first day and night, your dog will likely want some quiet time to adjust to their new home. Sitting quietly together and reading a book or watching some TV are relaxing ways you can bond.

It's a good idea to leave your dog alone with a yummy treat, like a pig's ear, for small amounts of time in the first few days. This helps them learn that when you leave, you will come back. Just make sure you come back before they begin worrying.

Outings

After the first day, your dog might show that they want to explore the neighbourhood. A gentle walk together is a great idea, but try to keep it relaxed. During the first week, stick to walking in quiet areas with your dog on their lead. This will help your dog get their bearings slowly, and you'll get to know more about how your dog likes to explore.

Avoid dog parks, busy beaches or doggy playdates until you're sure you know how your new dog will feel. These places can be really overwhelming for your pup.

Housetraining

Your new dog may not know much about being inside, so they're going to need your help while they learn. It's best to let your dog stay in rooms where you won't mind the odd accident while they practice.

While your dog's exploring new rooms and spaces, keep their lead on. That way, if there happens to be an accident, you can calmly move them away from the area and take them outside.

After playtime, naptime, drinks, meals and every few hours, take your dog outside. Whenever your dog toilets outdoors, reward them with a pat, treat or positive words.

Patience is the key to toilet training – never punish your dog for toileting inside, it won't teach them a thing, but it will stress them out.

Routines

Dogs like structure – so start your feeding, toileting, playtime and training routine right from day one. A consistent schedule will help your new fur-baby integrate with your home.

Visitors

Avoid having visitors or guests come over to meet your new dog for at least the first week.

Adopting dogs FAQs

Topical tips

Animal Welfare League Animal Welfare League
Animal Welfare League

Animal Welfare League of South Australia Inc (AWL) brings together lost and abandoned pets and caring humans to create happy homes where everyone feels loved.

Contact
1-19 Cormack Road,
Wingfield SA 5013
P: 08 8348 1300
E: contactus@awl.org.au
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Cats
How do I adopt a cat?
I've lost my cat
I've found a cat
Cat advice
Foster a cat or kitten
Dogs
How do I adopt a dog?
I've lost my dog
I've found a dog
Dog advice
Foster a dog or puppy
About us
Who we are
Policy and position statements
Our team
Contact us
Work with us
Pet projects
Support AWL
Donate online
Donate every month
Donate items
Leave a gift in your Will
Do your own fundraising
Buy lottery tickets
Volunteer for us
Sponsor a kennel
Shop at our thrift shops
Become a member
Help for your pet
Rehome your pet
Board your pet with us
Farewell your pet
Find a lost pet
Topical tips
Pocket pets
Find a vet
ACNC Registered Charity
© Animal Welfare League of South Australia Inc
A member of Companion Animal Network Australia - CAN
08 8348 1300
contactus@awl.org.au
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