Bringing home a German Shepherd is an exciting and rewarding experience for any pet owner. German Shepherds are intelligent, loyal, and protective. If you’re looking for the best family dogs, they would make a great choice for families who want to add a four-legged companion to their home. However, it’s important to understand that these dogs may require extra care and attention while they settle in, especially if you’re bringing home an older rescue. With the right guidance, however, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your new companion and help them to adjust to their new home. This article will provide tips and advice on making the transition smoother and help your German Shepherd adjust to their new environment.

Understanding German Shepherds

German Shepherds are a very popular breed of dog, and they’re traditionally used as working dogs. They’re known for being intelligent, loyal, and having a keen sense of smell which they use to help keep people safe. German Shepherds tend to be very active but also love to cuddle and be affectionate, making them great companions for families. However, as the breed is typically used as working dogs, they usually require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, especially as they age, to live a long and happy life.

Introducing their scent before they come home

Before you bring your new German Shepherd home, you should try to give them a chance to get their scent all over your house. This will help them to feel more comfortable when they arrive and make their transition smoother. If your house is already furnished, this process is simple. You can use blankets, cushions, or towels you have scented with your new Shepherd. For example, you give them a blanket to sleep on for a few days before bringing it back home ahead of their arrival. This will also help them to become used to your scent, especially if you use the blanket before gifting it to your new dog. Introducing their scent before they come home will help them feel more relaxed and settled once they come home to you.

Preparing for your home

When preparing to bring home a new pet, it’s important to make sure that your home is safe and welcoming. You’ll need to have all the necessary things for your dog, such as a bed, toys, and treats, as well as any other items you may need, such as a crate, bowls, and grooming supplies. A crate can be a good idea if you have young children to allow your dog a comfortable and safe place to retreat to and provide them with a familiar den-like feel. You’ll also need to ensure that your outside space is safe and secure so your dog doesn’t escape.

Introducing them to your family

Once you bring your German Shepherd home, they will want to make friends with every member of your family. These are just natural instincts. However, it’s important that you introduce them to each family member slowly. This will allow them to adjust to their new environment and help create a safe space for everyone.

Giving your German Shepherd a safe place

German Shepherds are an intelligent breed that can make great family pets. However, you need to make sure that you provide them with a safe and comfortable space where they can rest in peace. A crate can be a good option for many reasons. It can provide your dog with a safe place to retreat when they’re anxious or nervous, such as during fireworks, thunderstorms, or when they first come home. Additionally, if you have a spare room, you can create a safe space for them, which will give your dog a quiet area of your home to retreat to if they want to rest or become overwhelmed.

Getting them adjusted to their new routine

German Shepherds are intelligent and adaptable dogs, but they need to be eased into their new routine to avoid stress or anxiety. Most dogs like routine, so keeping things consistent can help them to feel more comfortable. This can include things like feeding times, exercise times, and sleeping habits.

Arranging the right dog insurance

Owning a dog is a big responsibility, especially when caring for a large breed. If something were to happen to your dog, it could be devastating. That’s why it’s important to make sure that your dog is properly insured. If you are bringing home a German Shepherd, it’s important to make sure that they are insured, such as opting for senior dog insurance if you’re bringing home an older rescue dog. The German Shepherd breed is at a higher risk of conditions like hip dysplasia, which can be financially difficult to treat. Dog insurance is a great way to protect your dog against these conditions and other accidents that could happen to them. You can find out more about the different types of dog insurance, including senior dog insurance, by heading to Petwise and checking out their website.

Investing in training

Whether your new German Shepherd is still a puppy or an older dog, you’ll want to start training them as soon as they come home. This help you bond with your new dog, but it will also help them settle in their new home better as they will understand the boundaries in a way that makes sense to them. You can find a local trainer to help you with your German Shepherd’s training, or you can also find training resources online. You can also find training books that are perfect for new owners, which are full of tips and tricks to help you get started.

Providing physical and mental stimulation

German Shepherds are usually active dogs who need lots of exercise, making it important to provide plenty of physical stimulation. This can be done in many ways, such as walking, running, or playing fetch. You can increase their mental stimulation by teaching them new tricks, taking them to classes, or adding mental games to their playtime, such as treat puzzles. Providing your dog with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation will help keep them healthy and reduce their boredom, which can lead them to become destructive or anxious.

Registering with a vet

In addition to dog insurance, it’s important to register your dog with a vet. This will allow them to receive the necessary vaccinations and required preventative care. It’s important to choose a vet that is experienced in treating German Shepherds and is conveniently located. This way, they will be able to provide your dog with the care and attention that they require. It’s also a good idea to ask your vet about tips and tricks for helping your dog adjust to its new environment and routine.

When you bring home a German Shepherd, you should understand that they will likely require extra care and attention when adjusting to their new environment. This can include things like feeding them at the same times every day, keeping the same sleeping schedule, and providing them with ample exercise and mental stimulation. It’s important to keep these things in mind when bringing home a new dog to ensure that they feel comfortable and are able to settle into their new home.

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