If you’ve been thinking about adopting a dog, there’s no time like the present (get it?!) We’ve all seen those cute photos on Instagram of adorable puppies wearing a big bow and sitting under the Christmas tree. But is getting a dog for Christmas a good idea? Yes and no! While you should NEVER get a dog as a gift without consulting the recipient, the Christmas break can be the perfect time to welcome a new dog into your home.
Time to prepare
If you’re lucky enough to have some time away from work during this period, you have a wonderful opportunity to get everything in order ready for a new furry arrival.
“Dog proof your home prior to their arrival,” advises Sharon Moore from PetCarers “Secure the Christmas tree so it cannot be pulled over and ensure all medications/cleaners and so on are in lockable or child proof cupboards. Are electrical cords such as TV cords and Christmas lights secure and where they can’t be chewed? Ensure there are no toxic plants. Get down on the floor and see things from their perspective, this insight will amaze you.”
Also, make sure that you have the basics on hand such as food, bedding, bowls, and an appropriate leash and collar before you bring your new dog home.
Time to settle in
Once your furbaby is home with you, there will be so many new sights and sounds for them to think about and adapt to. “Lots of greyhounds haven’t set paw in a home before,” says Greyhound Rescue volunteer Shelley. “They need lots of time and patience to help them settle in to their fantastic new life.”
With a few days or weeks off for Christmas (depending on your schedule!) you can allow plenty of time for your dog to explore at their own pace. Gradually introduce them to new things, like the kettle, the washing machine and the TV, calmly and quietly. This is a huge learning curve for your dog – but with time and positive reinforcement, they’ll get the hang of things.
Time to walk and play and train!
Ruth Elliott, a dog trainer and behaviour consultant from Formal Dogs says, “probably the biggest benefit of adopting a dog during the holiday season is time! Summertime daylight savings means you have more hours in the day to take your new greyhound out for walks, particularly in the morning or evening when the air and ground are cooler. Short local walks can be a great way to introduce your new dog to your home environment and surrounds.”
“If the weather is not suitable for walking, then spending time learning new skills, games and tricks is a great way to bond with your furbaby, provide environmental enrichment opportunities and help them build their confidence,” said Ruth.
A dog can bring so much joy to the family, and a forever home is the perfect gift for a greyhound this Christmas. With careful consideration and some forward-planning, the summer holidays can be a great opportunity for settling and bonding with a new pet.
Thinking of giving a home to a hound? Check out how to adopt!