Dog Calming - Adopt and Train Shelter Dogs

Congratulations on making the choice to save a dog and adopt a shelter or rescue dog! As you know there are so many wonderful dogs desperate and in need of finding loving homes. Opening your heart and offering your home to one or several of these dogs is an amazing gift of life.

According to the ASPCA approximately 8-12 million companion animals are taken into animal shelters nationwide annually. And of these animals nearly 60% of dogs and 70% of cats are euthanized.

Many dogs are surrendered to shelters because their owners did not spend the time and effort to properly train them, as a result could not handle hyperactive or unwanted behaviors.

Luckily there are people like you willing to give these dogs a second chance at finding a devoted, responsible owner who will work on teaching calming dog behaviors.

Along with adopting your new dog there are rules you will want to adopt as well to ensure a healthy enjoyable life for you and your dog.

Before brining home your dog you will need a few supplies such as a leash, collar, healthy food, food and water bowls, play toys, and safe bones for chewing. You will also need to plan to license and register your dog in your hometown, which requires proof of rabies vaccination.

The first several days are always nerving for a dog in a new environment, especially when he is left alone. To make your dog feel more at ease it's a good idea to plan to take the first 4 or 5 days at home with your dog if possible.

In the end the time off from work will pay off as you can initiate house rules early on before unwanted habits form. A new home and owner means new rules so old habits from previous homes can be broken immediately from day one.

For the first few days keep your dog on his leash throughout the day so you can teach him which behaviors are good and which are unwanted. Have your dog in tote all day, everywhere you go inside your house. If your new dog has old bad behaviors from his previous home you'll be able to correct him on the spot, which is the key to teaching the house rules of acceptable behavior.

If your family has several members, it is important to set aside time for everyone to discuss and agree on the house rules for your new dog. Will he be allowed on the furniture, in all the rooms? Where will he eat and sleep? Who will routinely walk your dog? The key for teaching and training dogs is consistency. Inconsistency will only confuse your dog about which rules to obey.

Calm dogs are dogs that are well trained and trained dogs are happy dogs. Dogs are happier when their owner takes the initiative establish structure. Dogs need structure, as the outside world is very stressful for dogs when they don't have clear guidance and rules to follow.

The second chance you are providing your newly adopted dog is one he is truly grateful for. Teach your dog calming good behavior is how life should be!