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Save a dog for the first time is both exciting and intimidating.
Of course, new dog owners are shining in the prospect of adding adorable, fun, beloved best friend to their daily lives. But that new bond requires responsibility and commitment, especially during the transition period for dogs raised from shelter, or even during the transition period for dogs, from eternal homes.
So, what is the key to making that transition as smooth as possible for both the owner and the dog? Celebrity dog trainer Brandon McMillan has three tips.
1. Do your dog’s homework with pre-therapy
Just like studying for a test, it is important to know as much as possible about your dog before you bring it home. Ask the shelter or encourage questions related to your situation. These may be the following questions: How do dogs interact with cats and other dogs? What about children and other people? How about them on a walk? Are they biting?
Macmillan says gaining this knowledge in advance will lead to a safer transition period, not just in place.
2. Help your dog adapt to their new home
Yes, the owner will ultimately need to leave the dog alone for a long period of time. But doing so should not be the first thing you do not have to do right after you bring your dog home.
“I’ll take the dogs out of shelter and leave them at your house and then party all night,” McMillan said.
Instead, Macmillan suggests spending time with your dog to help them become more comfortable in their new environment. And it would be unwise to have the dog free to have a house at his own pace, especially if he is a puppy.
Clear the Shelters is NBCuniversal Local’s pet adoption initiative that has helped over 1.2 million pets find their homes.
3. Build trust with your dog through training
When the dog gets home, it’s time to start building that special bond. And Macmillan says one of the best ways to do so is through training.
“[Dogs] Macmillan looks for leadership naturally.
“Not only train, build trust, but also form friendships. And one thing you can guarantee with your dog is that if they don’t trust you, you won’t learn you… You always need to form that bond, form trust with your dog, learn anything you throw.”
McMillan warns owners that dog training is like a stock market, “it doesn’t always go up” and “it’s a small crash and there are almost collisions on the road.” But if the owner does it right and forms trust with the dog, they will ultimately see a big return on the investment.
Editor’s Note: This story was originally published in August 2024.
Love Island USA star Leah Kateb collaborated with NBCuniversal Local’s annual Clear The Shelters Initiative to visit a New York City shelter that gives animals at risk of euthanasia a second chance.
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