Consider When Adopting

Things to Consider When Adopting a Puppy or Adult Dog

The single most important part of adopting any companion animal is patience. Animals that have been re-homed are sensitive and very impressionable. Our anger not only confuses our companions, but harms their development. We want our animals to grow up to be confident, alert, good natured and affectionate dogs. In order to accomplish this we must show our companions the same care we expect from them.

Puppies that are two to four months old are developing a sense of attachment, confidence, self-control, and game-playing. Confidence is built by slowly increasing the amount of stimuli that a puppy is exposed to each day (sounds, textures, movement, smells, etc). Your puppy’s world must extend beyond the home. Expose him to children, men, traffic, stairs, riding in the car, and anything else he may experience later in his life. We want to challenge our companions, but not stress or overwhelm them, so take baby steps.

Each puppy is born with a certain drive level. Puppies that do not learn self-control, or how to direct their drive, end up as dogs that are stressed and anxious. This stress may lead to destructive chewing, digging, barking, mouthing, jumping, or one of many other common behavior problems. Forms of restraint include crate-training, walking on a leash, and basic obedience commands. Not only should our pups learn self-control, but they should also learn how to discharge built up energy in a positive manner. This means learning which toys are his; where to run; what to chew; and how to play with you, your family and other animals. Game-playing enhances your pup’s awareness, attentiveness, and problem solving abilities.

“When my daughter brought me home a Bichon Frise puppy as a gift I was thrilled. My last dog, Coco, passed away a couple months ago and I have really missed her. But after a week with the puppy I was exhausted and at my wits end. I couldn’t keep up with this little creature running around my house. Unfortunately I needed to give her away. Since then I have adopted a 5 year old black Lab, Bell and couldn’t be happier. She loves going for a slow walk in the morning and instead of running around my house she is content to lay by my feet and snooze. Adopting an older animal is the best decision I have made.”
- Carol Manchester, NH

At four to six months puppies must learn approval awareness, a sense of responsibility, leash manners, basic commands, and socialization. Perhaps one of the most important factors is socialization with other dogs and other people. Take care that your puppy learns that other dogs and people are great. You will never be able to get back the impressionable stage of puppy hood. As a puppy matures he will be ready for more expectations to be placed on him and for more to be asked of him. We want to be sure that our companions are ready for the challenges we place on them. A puppy should continuously progress with your support and reinforcement.

Adult animals are generally a great match for many families. The struggle of housebreaking is typically over and they are finished with the adolescent stage. Many people find that they enjoy long walks with an older dog that does not have the intense drive to find out what each and every smell could be. Families that have busy schedules have also found comfort in an older dog that has already developed self-control and a sense of independence. Adopting any animal is very satisfying; but remember to sit down and examine your lifestyle before you take on the responsibility of any animal, especially a puppy.

A Great Starting Point

Part of working with your companion’s attention includes challenging his focus. It is important that he learns to check in with you, and ask, when he wants something. In order to work with this behavior we construct an environment that we can control.

Have your dog make eye-contact to ask for the treat in your hand.

It is important that your companion thinks through these steps on his own. If he wants something bad enough, like a treat in your hand, he will find a way to get it. The key in this situation is that there is only one right answer; he must look at you without being prompted. Hold the treat in your closed hand at your companion’s head level. Allow him to lick, nudge, and move around. Correct him lightly for any biting or jumping. Keep your hand steady and wait. As soon as your companion makes eye-contact give him the treat. Your companion will quickly learn how to ask you for something instead of demanding. However, this does not mean that he will always get what he wants.

Every month or so, Sonia will answer questions from our members. To submit a question, please email us with the word "TRAINER" in the subject line. We regret that Sonia won't be able to respond personally to every question.

For more information about Sonia's services, please contact Sonia at:
Canine Techniques
www.CanineTechniques.com
603-475-5295
SMullen@CanineTechniques.com