settleing in period

[kiawelsh]

we have just picked up our 8 month old white german shephard pup today and she is beautiful. She seems to have a very loving and gentle nature and is very good and gentle towards our children aged 17 12 and 6 years of age. Does anybody have any advise or tip on how to help her settle in over the next few days as we want to make her feel safe and secure as I am sure she will miss her previous owners for a time.

[lankeela]

Take her for a few nice walks (keeping her on a lead untl you are sure she in safe to be let off). Not too long, as she is still a baby, but this will help her to realise you are taking her back to your home. It will also tire her a little so she will be more willing to settle down and maybe have a sleep, and will be keen for her food.

Other than that, I would say don't go overboard with fuss, treat her as though she has been there for ever and be relaxed around her. Try not to have too many visitors, as she will have to get used to her new family and this may confuse her as to who is in her 'pack'. Also lots of coming and going means doors opening and closing, and the possibility of her getting let out.

Lots of oppoprtunity to go out into the garden so she learns where she can wee and poo, and lots of praise when she does it where you want.

Try to stick to her usual food, so she doesn't get an upset tummy.

Make sure you have a disc on her collar with your address and phone number on, just in case.

Good luck, I am sure you will have many happy years ahead together.

[saxy_jag]

When I first got my dog (although she was older), I took a week's leave from work to stay at home with her. I really do think it helped us to bond, although my son was the one at home least at the time, and she adores him. He moved out two and a half years ago, but she still goes crazy when he comes to visit.

[amonty1144]

Also let her have her own bed and keep the kids away from it. It will give her a chance to escape if she wants to and get a bit of piece and quiet. Personally I don't let dogs sleep on the bed or in my room, they can get territorial and also get very big (my lab used to nearly kill me if she lay on me.)
The best rule is start as you mean to go on, if you don't want her on the furniture then don't let her right from the start.
Microchipping is better than a collar as it can't drop off.
Good luck.

[lankeela]

Whether or not she is microchipped, the law states that she must wear a collar with a tag on it showing her owners details (while she is out in public that is). A lot of GSD breeders tattoo their dogs in their ears rather than microchip, but they stil need a tag.

[lankeela]

How are you getting on with your new puppy? What is her name?

Did you know there is a White and Long Coat German Shepherd Club that has branches all over the country?
I will try to find the link for you.

[lankeela]

http://www.walcss.50megs.com/