The best correction of all is simply a firm "NO" issued at the time of its bad behavior- when it is chewing, when it is marking, when it is stealing that steak off the kitchen counter.  Correcting your dog after the fact will confuse it, as it will not remember its offense, as a human being would.  Dogs live for now.

A dog that's been abused or neglected will be low on self-confidence and self-esteem. However, the abused or neglected dog, like any other, still will yearn for structure and ground rules in its new home.  Appropriate correction for these dogs still come in the form of a firm "No", but a softened firm "No" less stern, more loving.  After weeks and months of TLC, training and consistent reinforced structure, the chances are good that you will wind up with a new best friend that worships the ground that you walk on.

Socialization
This is an important time in his new surroundings.  Take them with you.... it not only teaches them how to ride but it also allows them to see new things.  The more the better.  The more they are relaxed in new environments, the more stable they will be wherever you choose to go.

Basic Training
After a couple of weeks setting in, start your dog on the basics: sit, lay, heel, come.  The payoffs of fifteen to twenty minute training sessions 4-5 times/week with your new dog, are many.   First, you'll get a well-behaved, well-mannered dog.  Second is the bonding and trust-building which takes place when working one on one with your new dog.  Third, training sessions will reinforce your 'top dog', leadership role that your new dog needs to know during these early weeks of ambiguity. Fourth, your new dog's gradual successes during these sessions will be a tremendous confidence builder, especially for a dog that's been neglected or abused.  Fifth, training sessions actively engage and stimulate your dog's mind - making them less anxious or neurotic during the rest of the day.  Too many great reasons no to put it off!

Play and Exercise
Play stimulates bonding, stimulates intellect and reduces anxiety.  At first, your new dog may or may not be good at play.  But play is a cornerstone of canine interactions with other 'pack' members.  For the dog home alone many hours during the day, play and exercise are superbly important.  It stimulates your dog's min and, also, physically tires your dog.  Results: less boredom, less anxiety while you're away, ergo less chewing, less digging, etc.

Chewing
Sometimes, a new (adult) dog will chew out of frustration, anxiety or nervousness.  Setting in, basic training and plenty of exercise and play will greatly reduce your new dog's desire to chew.  Provide an assortment of chewable toys (nylabones, Kong's etc.) around the house and encourage your new do to chew them--not the furniture.  Use commonsense about dog-proofing your house ("an ounce of prevention"):  keep shoes, purses, boots, toys, clothing out of your new dog's reach.  An Apple Bitter type spray product (from your pet store) is natural, inexpensive and will usually deter your dog from chewing on where it is applied.

Housebreaking (if necessary)
Most dogs, even housebroken ones, make a mistake or two in a new house.  If so, be sure to neutralize the odor with plain with vinegar or Nature's Miracle (from your pet store) to prevent re-attraction to the same spot.  With your new dog at home, keep a close eye on him/her, and make a point to bring the dog outside frequently.  If you catch your new dog in the act, correct him/her with a firm "NO" and immediately take the dog outside, where it is appropriate for it to relieve itself.  Praise him/her when they finish what they started.  Eventually, your new dog will learn to expect the opportunity to go outside, and wait for it.

.

.

.

Return to Top