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Bringing a new pet home is an exciting and fun time for us, but it can be pretty overwhelming for your new dog. Suddenly everything is different from all they've ever known! There are new people and possibly new pets who they aren't yet acquainted with, and all in a completely different environment from where they've spent their life until this point. There are steps you can take to help make the transition easier and more successful for everyone involved.
Quick German Shepherd Acclimating Tips
Here's more detail on how to bring your new German Shepherd home!
Keep things low key
As exciting as this time is for the humans, it can be downright scary for the canine. It's tempting to want to introduce your new dog to your neighbors and friends and extended family right away, but its far better and less stressful to wait a couple of weeks until your dog has had a chance to get to know YOU and are more relaxed in their new home and environment. In addition, resist the urge to take them to busy stressful places like the pet store, etc. right off the bat. You and your dog will have many happy years together to do all the fun things, so take it slow in the beginning and develop your relationship before diving into a lot of extra stimulus.
Use your leash
All the time. Everyone has a leash but so often overlooks what a truly valuable tool it is. Keep your new dog leashed to you for the first couple weeks. Yes, even in the house. A caribiner clip hooked to your belt loop and the handle of the leash is an easy and effective way to do this. Go about your normal routine, with the dog attached. This helps the bonding process tremendously and also helps your dog to feel safe and establish good habits in the house. It also keeps them out of trouble until they understand how everything works in their new home. Take them out to relieve themselves on leash, too, or if you have a fenced yard, you can have them drag a long leash (10-20 foot) attached to their collar so in the event that something might frighten them, you can safely get hold of them to get back inside without any chasing or yelling. Maintaining this for the first couple of weeks any time your dog is not in his crate will set you up for a successful transition and help pave the way for a great future relationship.
Use a crate
If your dog has been through any sort of training here with us, they are comfortable with and acclimated to their crate. Crate training is not cruel, in fact its quite the opposite. Dogs are naturally cave dwelling animals and it provides a safe and secure environment. Do not let people stare at, poke at, or otherwise disturb your dog when he's in his crate. That's his "room" so to speak, and his safe place.
Be patient
German shepherds are fiercely loyal dogs, that's one of the things we love so much about them. However, when they first arrive at their new home, they do not understand that these are their new people. They are a breed who is not likely to listen to or follow commands from strangers, and in the beginning, you and your family are strangers. We will work with you before you take your dog home and show you what they know and how they have been taught, to try to help you keep things as consistent as possible for them. Maintaining control and structure through keeping your dog leashed or crated, and spending as much quiet time with him as possible, is the best way for your dog to get to know and trust you. These are smart, sensitive dogs, and your patience and positive reinforcement will go a long way toward establishing a happy, healthy relationship for years to come. We are always available and happy to advise if you have questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. It is extremely important to us for you and your pet to have a long, and wonderful life together.