Are you a dog lover? Do you find yourself constantly befriending every furry friend you come across? If so, you may have encountered a stray dog at some point in your life.
You can find stray dogs in cities, rural areas, and everywhere in between. These dogs may be lost, abandoned, or simply live on the streets. While it can be heartbreaking to see a sweet pup in such a situation, there are things you can do to help.
So, let us explore eleven ways to adopt and befriend stray dogs, so you can give them the love they deserve!
1. Approach with Caution
Before you go bounding up to that adorable stray, remember to approach with caution. It’s important to remember that not all dogs are friendly, and you don’t want to start off on the wrong paw.
Approach the dog from the side, speak softly, and avoid making direct eye contact. And remember, a wagging tail doesn’t always mean a friendly dog! However, if the dog seems friendly, you can try to pet them, but always be aware of the dog’s body language.
So take it slow, let the dog sniff you out, and hopefully, you’ll have a new furry friend in no time.
2. Offer Food & Water
Hangry (hungry and angry) is never a good look, even for a dog! So, if you encounter a stray puppy, offer them some food and water.
It’s a simple gesture that can make a big difference to a dog in need. Just remember, not all dogs can handle human food, so stick to dog-friendly snacks like dry kibble or canned food.
Moreover, make sure to provide plenty of fresh water to keep them hydrated. Who knows, that small act of kindness could be the start of a beautiful friendship!
3. Give the Dog Space & Build Trust
A stray dog’s trust isn’t easy to get as they have lived on the streets with fear of humans and no love or affection. So, give the dog space to come to you on their own terms.
Don’t rush into petting or cuddling immediately, as this can be an overwhelming experience for the sweet yet scared dog.
Instead, start by talking to the dog in a calm and reassuring voice. Avoid making sudden movements or approaching the dog too quickly. Moreover, try offering treats or toys and let the dog come to you.
Over time, your new furry friend will learn to trust you, and you’ll have a loyal life companion!
4. Provide Shelter
When you’re befriending a stray dog, it’s important to remember that they may not have a safe and comfortable place to call home. Sheltering your new animal buddy can significantly enhance their standard of living.
Whether it’s a cozy dog bed in your home or a sheltered spot in your yard, a safe place to rest will help your new friend feel secure and loved. And you’ll get the added bonus of a cuddly new companion to share your space with!
5. Train the Pup
When you adopt a stray dog, it’s important to help them learn basic commands and proper behavior. Training not only helps your pup become a well-behaved companion, but it also strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend.
You can take your dog to professional trainers like Allbreeds boarding kennels, who can help you train your pup from basic obedience to advanced tricks. They can also help you with house training and leash manners or teach your pup to sit and stay.
If you’re planning to adopt a stray dog as an emotional support animal, it’s essential to understand the legal protections and requirements involved. Familiarize yourself with ESA laws in California to ensure you and your furry friend can enjoy all the benefits of this special designation. These laws will help protect your rights in housing and travel, making it easier to provide a safe and loving environment for your new companion.
So grab some treats and get ready to train your pup to be the ultimate good boy!
6. Get the Pup Checked by a Vet
If you’ve finally decided to adopt the stray dog, congratulations! We know you are going to be a great parent. The very first thing you must do is bring your new furry companion to the vet for a check-up.
Stray dogs may have been exposed to various health issues, and ensuring your new pup is healthy and happy is essential. The vet can also provide you with important information about vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and proper nutrition.
Taking care of your new dog’s health will ensure they have a long and happy life by your side. So, make that vet appointment and let the good times roll!
7. Introduce the Dog to Other Pets
You need to introduce your new furry friend to your present pets slowly and carefully. This is a crucial step to make the environment more comfortable for the new family member.
Make sure to keep them on a leash and let them sniff each other out before allowing them to play together.
However, if your new pup hesitates to socialize, don’t worry! You can always go through some training tips for dogs that struggle to play with others, which will help your new dog accommodate well.
Moreover, with some patience and practice, your new furry friend will run and play with their new pals in no time!
8. Establish a Routine
Establishing a routine can help the stray dog feel more comfortable and secure in its new home.
Dogs are creatures of habit and thrive on consistency, so setting a regular schedule for feeding, walks, and playtime will help your new pup feel comfortable and secure in their new home.
Additionally, having a routine will make it easier for you to manage your time and ensure your pup gets everything they need to be happy and healthy.
So, get your planner out and create a schedule that works for you and your new furry pal!
9. Provide a Safe & Comfortable Environment
It’s your responsibility to ensure the stray dog, whose now a new family member, has a safe and comfortable place to sleep and relax.
Create a cozy bed for them to sleep in, provide plenty of toys to play with, and make sure your home is puppy-proofed to prevent any accidents. It’s also better to consider crate training the dog to help it feel more secure.
However, if you’re still scratching your head in confusion, you can easily find some great tips to prepare for a new dog in your home. You can try creating a designated area for their food and water and ensuring any hazardous items are out of reach.
With some preparation, your new furry friend will feel right at home in no time!
10. Be Patient & Consistent
Befriending a stray dog takes time, patience, and consistency. Remember that your new furry friend may have had a problematic past and may need some extra Tender Loving Caring (TLC) to adjust to their new life.
Be patient with them as they learn the ropes, and be consistent with your training and routines. Consistency is essential when it comes to training and routines. Stick to a consistent schedule and use positive reinforcement to help your pup learn and grow.
11. Show Your Pup Love & Affection
If you’ve just adopted a stray dog, showing them plenty of love and affection is essential; because showing love and affection is key to building a strong and lasting bond.
Dogs thrive on attention and positive interactions, so make sure to give your new furry friend plenty of belly rubs, ear scratches, and cuddles. Talk to them softly and soothingly and use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior.
Remember, your new pup looks to you for love and guidance, so show them all the love and affection they deserve.
Conclusion
Adopting a stray dog is a long-term commitment. Be committed to giving the dog the love, care, and attention it needs. By following our tips and incorporating essential dog training into your routine, you can help ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend.
Remember to be patient, consistent, and loving, and you’ll soon have a loyal and loving companion for life.
