Helen asks…
How to handle dog coming home from animal shelter?
I adopted a German Shepherd from an animal shelter this week, I am picking him up on Monday because of the background checks and reference checks they have to go through. The dog I selected appeared to be a really calm dog at the shelter, especially compared to all the other dogs around him. My question is, since this is my very first dog I dont really know what to expect for when I bring him home. 1 of the biggest things that drew me to this dog was that he was so affectionate, and I was told that he was raised all his life in animal shelters. It turns out he was rescued by this animal shelter from another animal shelter because he was scheduled to be euthanized. So he has spent his entire life in a cage. I am curious what am I to expect when he gets here? Like is he gonna be super wild and am I not going to be able to leave him alone for even a few minutes without him getting into trouble, or should I keep him around me until I know whats up?
fyi this is my very FIRST dog, and although I have done alot of reading as to what to expect and how to take care of a dog, as well as that I need to take him to obedience classes and all of that. I’m still not sure how to treat him for the first week. I was told by the lady at the shelter not to let him sleep in bed with me for the first week or so since German Shepherds think they are the leader of the “pack” then if I keep them on level ground as me. Also some people were saying not to be to sweet and loving to the dog all the time since this breed of dog needs a firm hand to train them. Thats not my personality though, so is there a “nice” way of going about that, or was that advice false?
Anything you guys think I should know would be greatly appreciated!
Lesley answers:
I myself adopted an abused dog from the shelter. You should expect the dog to be maybe shy at first. You have to remember the dog will be overwhelmed and will be adjusting to his new environment. The dog may become wild because it’s all new, and he is going to test his limits. Hiring a trainer to come to your house and help with training may be a good idea, I did that and it worked great. The dog will come around though. Give the dog love and attention and don’t be scared. I wouldn’t leave the dog by himself for a few hours, but you can leave the room for a few minutes and see what happens. I think its wonderful that you adopted the dog, and trust me, its worth it!
Edit: My dog slept in her crate at night for the first few weeks. She then moved on to the couch (if you don’t allow your dogs on furniture then have him sleep on his bed). After that I cracked and she slept in the bed with me. I would see if your dog seems dominant. Dogs NEED lots of love and attention, and this dog has been in a shelter so you need to make up the years he has missed. German Shepherds are strong dogs, but you have to remember the life this dog has had so far. YOU are the owner of this dog, so do not let anyone tell you the way you should treat him. If you want to be strict and firm, then fine. But if you want to give lots of love and affection, that is perfect. Best of luck to you, and again, I applaud you on adopting
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