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How to bond with your new adopted dog

By Katrina Warren|

When it comes to bringing your new rescue or adopted dog home, there are a few things that will surely be on your mind.

What food do they like? Is there an exercise routine you need to establish? Do they like curling up in front of the TV when Love Island comes on?

They're all important things to consider.

While we all like to be prepared, often the process of bonding with your new dog at home is one that definitely takes time.

In fact, it's normal for it to take several weeks before your pup is fully comfortable in their new place.

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Cavoodle
Before you and your adopted dog become the best of friends, there are some important things you should do. (Supplied)

Below, find some tips for how to best bond with your adopted dog so that you become best friends in no time.

Take a few days off work

Having a few days off work scheduled for when your dog arrives is a good idea, in order to have some valuable time with them.

This might even be necessary, in order to get your dog acquainted with your home, new surroundings and he or she's new life.

Considering that rescue or adopted dogs have a background that you weren't a part of, this one-on-one time can really help to bond with your dog, since arriving in a new home can be stressful for them.

One bonus is that mature dogs are often toilet or house-trained to some degree, though they may need some reminding, especially when they're in a new environment.

Prepare for a few accidents, perhaps some barking or howling, but also some sweet get-to-know-you time as you introduce yourselves to each other.

READ MORE: How to house train a puppy to make them as well-behaved as possible

Cute Bichon Frise dog lying on a bed in the company of young woman using laptop
It's best to take a few days off, to spend some quality time with your pup. (Getty)

Establish your dog's name

I know first-hand the importance of establishing your dog's name with them - it not only helps to build rapport, but it also makes training a lot easier.

In the case of my late pup Riley, I remember when I first brought him home he looked at me blankly when I spoke his name.?

Of course, he didn't know his name, he'd been abandoned, Riley was a new name given to him by the shelter that meant nothing to him.

In order to teach Riley his name, I used one simple rule: I simply spoke or called his name often, and then rewarded him when he ran over or responded.

Be sure your dog knows their name, and learns to respond to it. (Getty)

READ MORE: How to know if your dog or cat loves you, according to a vet

Start a routine with them

Dogs love routine, it helps them feel secure, so by establishing your dog's routine from the start can be a great help.

It not only helps them to trust you, but it also helps them to connect with you.

Feed them at the same time and in the same place every day. Show them where they sleep and toilet. Make the rules of the house clear and be consistent.

Use rewards and more rewards

To get your dog to bond with you, rewards are your best friend.

Treats or toys are the perfect way to build your dog's confidence with you and to show them that they're safe.

Instead of putting down a bowl full of food for them to eat in one go, use their daily ration of food for training and bonding.

Dog receiving a dog treat. Dog being rewarded. Puppy training.
When it comes to bonding with your dog, treats are your best friend. (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

For example, you can practice calling their name, then giving some food, asking them to sit, then giving them some more food, and so forth.

Not all dogs and breeds are motivated by food, so be sure to figure out what it is that entices your dog the most จC from liver treats to squeaky toys.

Do careful socialising, and take note of any phobias

Socialising an adopted dog is very similar to socialising a puppy - both should be gradual and done with great care.

Adopted dogs need to be exposed to a wide range of different experiences, like bicycles, prams and busy roads.

Dog walker generic
Taking your dog on a leashed walk outside can help to slowly introduce them to new surroundings and begin socialisation. (Getty Images/Maskot)

This way you can not only observe how they react to different environments and elements but also put them at ease in those environments and around those triggers.

Over time you will develop an understanding of anything that frightens them, like loud noises or thunderstorms, and you can then put a strategy in place to avoid those things.

The long-term goal, of course, is to get your dog to a point where they can handle these triggers, but that comes with time and careful training.

When helping your dog to overcome any fears or triggers, your approach should be gentle and well-planned. If needed, don't be afraid to consult your vet.

You can see more tips from Dr Katrina on adopting a dog in the video player above.

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