Bonding With Your Dog

Establishing a bond with your dog is the single most important thing that you can do to enrich your dog's life, and pave the way for a trusting, successful companionship between the two of you.

It is important to take the time when you get a new dog, whether it is a puppy, or an older dog, to make him/her feel secure, loved and cared for. Not only will this be good for the dog, but it will be good for you too! When a dog is secure in the knowledge that he is an accepted member of your "pack", he will respond more favorably to Housebreaking training, and all other areas of Obedience training, as well as having less phobias and agressive behaviors.

I know it is impossible to know how your dog was treated before he came to live with you - your dog may have been very loved, and taken care of, or your dog may have been mis-treated, or abused. As such, I suggest that you focus on your current relationship with your dog, as your new dog will not dwell on the past like a human would, dogs focus on the present, and you should make the present, safe, secure, loving, and encouraging.

Some things to do when you bring home a new dog:

• Let the dog explore his/her new environment freely. You may follow and speak in a positive voice, offering encouragement and praise.
• Introduce the dog to each member of your family one at a time. Allow the dog at least 15 minutes to check out each person. Make sure that each family member, or "pack" member is calm, and affectionate.
• Show the dog the food and water bowls, and let him eat and drink if they do so on their own.
• Show the dog where to use the bathroom immediately after eating, or drinking. Refer to Housebreaking
• Show the dog where he/she may sleep, if necessary you may place the on his/her new bed to show that you approve of this spot
• The dog is bound to feel extremely insecure the first few days, lots of affection, and a gentle voice is recommended
• Take the time to play with the dog, a nice round of fetch, a gentle tug of war all really help the bonding process. Make sure other members of your family do these things to.
• Let the dog sleep in your room, not on the bed, but in your room
• Allow the dog to accompany you on your daily chores

Watch the below video for some excellent bonding tips, and information about Dog Care: