Preparing Your Home for Your New Dog
Bringing your Leader Dog home is a big change for you, your dog and the people around you. The following suggestions will help ensure a smooth transition.
Your guide dog is still a dog. Dogs are naturally curious, no matter how much training they receive, and they cannot always override their inborn nature. The old saying, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” is very true when dealing with dogs.
Good habits now mean fewer problems later. Many undesirable and annoying behaviors (stealing food from countertops, scavenging in garbage cans, etc.) can quickly become bad habits that take months to correct. Making changes in your home environment before you bring your Leader Dog home will help prevent future problems. Make sure all garbage cans have lids or keep them behind cupboard doors. Keep food and other tempting items off countertops. Having good habits from the beginning will lower the temptation for your Leader Dog to misbehave.
Dogs thrive on consistency. They are happiest and do their best work when they know exactly what is expected of them. Dogs don’t understand “just this once,” especially when it comes to things like jumping on furniture or people. Make sure your dog and your family members understand that all furniture is off-limits. Your dog will be confused if some people allow it on furniture or to jump and others do not. When you take time to ensure everyone is adhering to the same rules, your Leader Dog will be happier and better behaved.
Plan tie-down areas for your Leader Dog. A tie-down is a short length of chain with a trigger snap on one end. It is an excellent way to keep your dog near you, safe and out of trouble when you are otherwise occupied. Remember, your dog wants to be with you, so having tie-downs in areas you spend a lot of time in (such as the kitchen, living room or bedroom) will prevent it from feeling isolated.
Plan a “park” area for your Leader Dog. This is the place where you will regularly take your dog to relieve itself. Dogs are most comfortable when they are on a regular schedule for both feeding and relief. This area should be close to your home, free of debris and easy for you to keep clean (you will learn how during training). Your Leader Dog will need at least 4–6 “park” times per day. Regular, structured scheduling on your part will eliminate accidents.
Please share these suggestions with your family and friends so your homecoming with your new Leader Dog will be a positive experience for everyone.
