Hudson Valley SPCA

Bringing Your New Dog Home

Your new dog might be nervous and out of sorts at this point. The smells and new space are unfamiliar. Those first few days in a new environment are so important. We hope these tried-and-true methods will make things go more smoothly for everyone!

Get your house dog ready

With all the excitement, your new pooch may forget any housebreaking skills learned. A kitchen is a good place to first keep your new pet with a baby gate. Remember to make the environment safe by taping loose cords, storing chemicals, removing plants and breakables; generally keeping things out of the dog's reach. Have food and water ready for their arrival in the room. Chew toys will help them relax.

Try to keep the environment as quiet and calm as possible. Bring your dog to a designated potty area and reward with a treat when they go. You may need to take them out more often at first to avoid any accidents.

No dog park at first and not too many visitors. Let your new dog settle down with you. Feed the same food we gave them here at the HVSPCA and begin to get them used to your routine.

Crate training

Will you be crating your dog? If so, be sure to have a crate set up and ready. Crate training tips: CLICK HERE.

Training tips

Create a list of words that the entire family will use when giving your new dog directions. This will surely speed up their understanding of what you want. Need to learn more about how to talk to your dog? CLICK HERE.

Coming home

Take your new dog out for a good walk before bringing them inside. If possible, stop your car a few blocks from your home and walk them to the front door giving a chance to relieve themselves on the way. This will allow them to get used to the smells and sights of your neighborhood. It's a good way for the two of you to bond, too.

Other Dogs in the home

We will ask you to bring your other dogs to the HVSPCA to meet the newcomer. Under the watchful eye of our Shelter Manager, Matt, we will show you how to make that introduction a successful one.

Cats in the home

Keep the cat secure until you know how the dog will react. Use doors, gates, and leashes to prevent contact initially. Don’t give the dog the opportunity to chase the cat. Make sure the cat has escape options. Keep initial encounters brief. Manage all interactions.