Bringing home a new dog is a very rewarding experience. But as is the case with bringing any pet home, there is going to be a period of adjustment. It is important to know that we very much like routine. Consistency from the very beginning is a significant part of helping your dachshund adjust to the new environment. Whether you have brought home a young puppy or have adopted an older dog, you can expect that they will take a few days to settle in to their new environment. There are certain tips that can make this transition easier for your dachshund. These tips will not only help your dog adjust, they will also increase the bond you’re going to form with your new dachshund. It may take a couple of days or even months, depending on the personality and the experiences of the dog. For example, coming home from a sheltered environment is a big transition. Do not be discouraged if your dog takes some time to adapt to their new surroundings.
Give Time To Decompress By Starting Slow
It is possible to help the new member of your family by taking it slow during the first couple of days. I will appreciate the time to get to know my new surroundings. As such, allow me to explore the new house and its environment at my own pace.
Sometimes it can be an exhausting experience adjusting to a new environment. In case your dog was adopted from a shelter, you need to realize that he previously experienced a noisy and stressful environment. His new home is going to be the first quiet and cozy place in which he is going to get good sleep. You should not overstimulate him, particularly in the first few days of coming home. If your dog is a little standoffish, simply allow him to check things out for himself. If I come to you for attention, you should be as affectionate as my comfort level will allow.
Not all dogs are able to create a bond with their new owner immediately. Do not take it personally. Remember that your dog has to get used to all new sights and smells. Such a time can be stressful for him so try to make him as comfortable as possible. It is a good idea to keep things calm and positive.
Give Me My Own Space
One way to make me comfortable in my new home is to provide me with my own comfy bed or a safe place where I can retreat when I am tired or overwhelmed. Certain dogs need extra time to chill out every once in a while, particularly with the stress of adapting to a new environment. If the new dog is not in a mood to play or cuddle, you can try giving him something to do on his own. By offering yummy treats, you can show your dog that you are going to provide him with awesome things. In this way, you can also create trust and if he is feeling uneasy, he may appreciate a nice treat to enjoy on his own.
Stomach Issues Due To Change of Diet
Diarrhea in newly adopted dogs on account of stress or a sudden change in diet is common. Ask the rescue or shelter what food your dog ate so that you can prevent a sudden change in your dog’s diet. In case you do not like that brand, you can switch over, but you may consider doing it slowly by mixing the new food with the old food.
Stress can be eased by taking things slowly, particularly during the first week and giving the dog some time to adapt. If he has diarrhea for more than a few days, you should immediately consult your vet.
Loss Of Appetite In New Surroundings
Stress can also cause a lack of appetite. It may be a few days before your new dog gets comfortable enough to eat a normal meal in his new home. A change in food or a new diet may also result in the dog refusing to eat. However, a dog is not going to starve himself if he is healthy and will soon learn to adapt to a new diet. If you are concerned about your dog’s appetite, offer him a piece of a high-value food like chicken or ham. If he readily eats it, then it is highly likely that he is simply going through an adjustment period. However, if he refuses high-value food after a day or two, it is the time to consult your veterinarian.
Stick To Your Routine in The Long Run
Dogs thrive on routine and the sooner your new dog learns how things are going to function in the new home, the more comfortable he will be. There are certain tips that can be followed to help your dog adjust:
- Feed him at the same time each day
- Go out for daily walks every day at the same time
- Consistently go for potty breaks
- Go to bed the same time every night
Similarly, having fixed time for exercise, cuddling or other routine activities will also help your dog become involved. After he has learned the new routine, he will feel more secure and he will be aware of what is expected of him.
Many dachshund owners like to spend as much time as possible with their new dog, and that is great. However, you should try to incorporate at least some of the routine activities in the first few weeks so that your dog can adjust to his normal routine as soon as possible.
Conclusion
It is very important to remain patient with your new dog. He is surrounded by strangers and has been placed in a completely new environment where everything is unknown. To say the least, it is a bit scary for him. Your dog might need just a few days or it may take weeks to adjust. Every dog is different and has his own individual history. It is important to take it slow and make it easy for your dog to adapt to his forever home.
