Leashes, Crates, and Baby Gates
Restricting a new dog's access to certain areas of the home can prevent accidents and destructive behavior. This is particularly important for puppies or new dogs who are unfamiliar with the house rules. Dogs will learn faster with clear boundaries!
Using Crates can be an effective method for potty training and keeping a dog out of trouble when unsupervised. It’s important to ensure the crate is a positive experience for the dog, not a form of punishment.
For dogs who don’t respond well to crates, baby gates confine them to a safe area while still allowing them to see, hear and smell their surroundings. This method can reduce anxiety compared to being shut in a room with a closed door. A bathroom or laundry room can work very well for this time of boundary training in most homes.
Leashes are another way to supervise your new dog in the home. Keeping a dog on a leash indoors (only when you’re at home) allows you to supervise and correct unwanted behaviors immediately. Tethering a smaller dog to your belt or to a piece of furniture (while you are close by) can also help with bonding and reducing anxiety.
Teaching boundaries is important for dogs to know what is appropriate to chew or play with and what is off-limits. Consistent supervision and correction will help them learn these rules faster. Training a new dog takes time and patience. Consistently managing their environment and providing guidance will help them learn what is expected.
By following these steps, you can create a safer and more structured environment for your new dog, helping them adjust to their new home and preventing unwanted behaviors.
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