Essential Dos and Don'ts for Successfully Bringing Your New German Shepherd Home

 Follow these guidelines to help your new GSD adjust successfully to their forever home!

DOs:

• Take your dog straight home. Walk them around the front yard, inside the house, and the backyard on a leash, allowing them to explore their new surroundings. Introduce them to the designated potty area and praise them for using it, correcting any attempts to potty indoors. Begin obedience and structure immediately.

• Establish a schedule right away. Even if you’re taking a few days off to spend with your dog, start the routine they’ll follow when you return to work. Consistency is key.

• Use a crate or a designated safe area. Leave the house for short errands to show them you will return, helping them adjust to your absences.

• Respect your dog's space. Allow them to approach you and your family for attention. If they need alone time, let them have it. When they seek affection, give them some, but avoid overwhelming them with too much praise and attention without cause.

• Reward good behavior. Ask your dog to perform simple tasks, like sitting or making eye contact, and praise them for it. This helps build a relationship based on mutual respect and rewards.

• Monitor interactions with other dogs and children. Ensure your new dog doesn’t bully or dominate existing pets.

• Provide structure and rules. Consistent rules help your dog feel secure and confident. Get to know your dog’s preferences for affection, whether it’s hugs, butt scratches, or tummy rubs.

DON'Ts:

• Don’t take your dog to the pet store right away. They need to trust you first. If they feel stressed or uncomfortable, they might react defensively.

• Don’t take your dog to a Doggie Wash immediately. They aren’t used to your touch or the environment, which could make them defensive.

• Don’t invite all your friends over to meet your dog. They need time to adjust to their new home and routine without overwhelming stimulation.

• Don’t assume others can handle your dog the way you do. Take time to understand your dog’s behavior and triggers before allowing others to interact closely.

• Don’t take them on big outings initially. You don’t yet know their fears or triggers, which could lead to unexpected reactions.

• Don’t put your dog in situations where they could fail. Avoid risky scenarios until you know your dog better.

• Don’t overwhelm your dog with physical affection. They need time to trust and get comfortable with you. Pushing them too far can hinder their adjustment.

• Don’t use physical corrections. This can make you seem unstable and untrustworthy to your dog. Use positive reinforcement and patience to guide them.

Remember, your new GSD needs time, patience, and structure to feel secure and thrive in their new home. 

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