A new member of the family: How to prepare for a dog from the shelter

1. make the right choice: Which dog is right for you?

Before adopting a dog from a shelter, you should think carefully about which dog suits you and your lifestyle. Every dog is unique, and it's important that you find a four-legged friend that can integrate well into your life.

Understand dog characters and needs

Dogs have different temperaments and needs. Some dogs are very active and need a lot of exercise, while others are more calm and relaxed. Think about how much time you can spend walking and exercising your dog every day. Do you have a large house with a garden or do you live in an apartment? The age of the dog also plays a role: puppies need a lot of attention and training, while older dogs are often already trained but may have special health needs.

Visiting an animal shelter: finding the right dog

A visit to an animal shelter is the best way to find out which dog is right for you. Talk to the staff at the shelter, who know the character and needs of the dogs well. Many shelters also offer the opportunity to walk the dogs or spend time in the outdoor enclosure to get to know them better.

2. make your home dog-safe

Before your new dog moves in with you, you should prepare your home for their arrival. A dog-friendly environment will help minimize stress for your new companion and prevent accidents.

Eliminate sources of danger

A new dog will want to explore its surroundings, especially in the first few days. Make sure all dangerous items such as cleaning products, electrical cords or small ingestible objects are out of reach. If you have a garden, check the fence to make sure it is escape-proof.

Get the basic equipment

To make your dog feel comfortable right from the start, you should have the necessary basic equipment ready. This includes

• Dog bed: A comfortable place for your dog to retreat to.
• Food bowls: Make sure they are non-slip and the right size for your dog.
• Leash and collar: For the first few walks, you should have a sturdy leash and a well-fitting collar ready. Alternatively, you can also use a harness.
• Toys: Dogs love to play, especially in a new environment. Toys help to prevent boredom and keep the dog occupied.
• Grooming products: Brush, shampoo and, if necessary, claw clippers should also be on hand.

3. the first few days: settling in and building trust

The first few days in a new home are a big change for your dog. It is important to give him time to settle in and to support him gently.

Stay patient and calm

A dog from a shelter often has an unknown history and can be anxious or unsure in the first few days. Give him time to explore his new home at his own pace. Avoid rushing him and give him the opportunity to retreat if he needs to.

Establish routines

Dogs love routines as they give them security. Feed your dog at set times, take him for regular walks and make sure he always has access to fresh water. This regularity will help your dog to settle in more quickly and gain confidence.

The first few nights

Many dogs feel uncomfortable the first few nights in a new environment and can be restless. Place the dog bed in a quiet place where your dog feels safe. It can also help to put an item of clothing that you have worn on the bed to give him a feeling of closeness.

4 Training and socialization: a new start

A dog from a shelter may have different training needs depending on its history. It is important to establish clear rules from the outset and start training.

Basic obedience and confidence building

Start with simple commands such as "sit", "down" and "here". Positive reinforcement through treats and praise is the best way to teach your dog these commands. Avoid punishments as they could undermine your dog's trust in you.

Socialization with other dogs

Many shelter dogs may have little experience socializing with other dogs. Make sure that your dog can get to know other dogs in a controlled environment. This can be done on walks together or at a dog school. Good socialization is important so that your dog can interact with other dogs in a safe and relaxed manner.

5. vet visit and health

Your new dog's health should be a top priority. A first visit to the vet is essential to make sure your dog is healthy and has all the necessary vaccinations and treatments.

The first visit to the vet

The first visit to the vet should take place as soon as possible after adoption. Bring all the documents you received from the animal shelter with you so that the vet can get a comprehensive picture of your dog's state of health. The necessary vaccinations and a general examination will also be carried out during this visit.

Regular health checks

Even after the first visit, it is important to check your dog's health regularly. Look out for signs of discomfort or changes in behavior and consult a vet at an early stage if necessary. A balanced diet and sufficient exercise are also important factors for your dog's health.

6 Patience and love: the key to success

A dog from a shelter often has a troubled past and needs time to get used to its new life. However, with patience, love and the right preparation, you can build a deep and trusting relationship with your new family member.

Setbacks are part of the process

It is normal for setbacks to occur in the first few weeks or months. Your dog may react fearfully to certain situations or display undesirable behavior. At such times, it is important to remain calm and continue to work consistently. Remember that every dog has its own speed of adapting to new circumstances.

The reward: a loyal companion for life

The effort and patience you invest will pay off. Dogs from shelters are often particularly loyal and loving companions who give you their whole heart. With the right preparation and a loving acclimatization process, you can ensure that your new dog will feel completely at home with you and that you can spend many happy years together.

Adopting a dog from an animal shelter is a wonderful opportunity to help an animal in need and at the same time gain a loyal friend for life. By preparing well and giving your new dog the necessary time and attention, you lay the foundation for a happy and fulfilling future together.