Do as much preparation in advance as you can. Decide where your dog is going to rest and sleep and have a dog bed ready to go. Make sure you have food and water bowls and check what your rescue dog is currently being fed. If you want to change to a different kind of food, always make any changes gradually.
Make introductions to the rest of the family in a calm, controlled way – and keep your rescue dog on a lead at first, if you need to.
Introduce your new dog to any existing pets in a neutral territory – with existing dogs, you could meet in the park then bring them both home together, or take the other dog to the rescue centre to make sure both dogs get on. If that’s not possible, make the first introductions in the garden, rather than indoors.
When it comes to bedtime, start as you mean to go on. If you let your new dog sleep in your bedroom in the first night, do you really want them at the bottom of your bed forever? Being very clear about house rules from day one is much better for your pet’s long-term emotional stability.
Focus on the rules and routines first, and a positive relationship will naturally follow. It’s all about striking the right balance between setting boundaries and developing a bond.
Be consistent – it’s important for any dog, but especially so for a rescue dog that may have experienced lots of inconsistencies in its care.
