The Large Dog Blog

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Every dog deserves a backyard that has ample running space, room to relax, and an area to dig. If you recently moved to a new house, or are simply looking to renovate your backyard, there are many ways to create a dog-friendly backyard that your pup will enjoy for hours on end.

To help you get started, Redfin reached out to dog experts from Houston, TX to Kingston, ON, including us, to give you our best advice on how to create a dog-friendly backyard. From installing an electric doggy dog to selecting dog-friendly plants for your landscaping, keep reading to see what we had to say. Check out 11 Expert Tips to Create a Dog-Friendly Backyard.

Looking to get the new year started off right? Why not take on a resolution with your dog! It’s a great way to switch it up, and hey, you even have a built-in accountability buddy.

There are lots of ways you can incorporate your dog into your new year goals – whether they’re health and fitness related or you want to focus on finding adventure, I know Fido’s down to join in.

Read on for some fun ideas of New Year’s resolutions to make with your dog!

1. Get your exercise in

Starting an exercise routine is one of the most common and cliché New Year’s resolutions out there, but I know a number of you have this on your list! Why not make it fresh and include your dog in your new found commitment to exercise?

Instead of a daily routine you do in the living room while Fido sleeps on the couch, incorporate your dog into your exercise commitment. It’s possible for many dogs to become running companions, and it actually works really well if you’re both just starting out. Couch to 5K type programs are the perfect way for you both to get into running.

While jogging and power walking are definitely the most popular and often accessible ways to exercise with your dog, you could also try for daily hikes, obstacle courses, and games of keep away.

2. Put dental hygiene on your radar

Canine dental hygiene is one of those things that falls by the wayside all too often. In fact, this is the item that’s going on MY New Year’s resolution list this year. It’s usually not until there’s a major dental issue that most dog owner’s give any thought to brushing their dog’s teeth.

The thing is, just like humans, dogs can develop gingivitis and periodontitis that leads to mouth pain and bone loss. And, like with most things, prevention is key!

When it comes to cleaning your dog’s teeth, you actually don’t have to brush every day. Most experts recommend 3-4 times per month. Surely we can commit to that, right? Dog toothbrushes that go over your finger make the job a lot easier.

If brushing feels impossible, check out the article: 7 Ways to Clean Your Dog’s Teeth without Brushing Them for some inspiration!

3. Help your dog get to a healthier weight

Has your dog put on a little more weight than they should have? Sadly, it’s usually the humans that are to blame. If your dog is more than 5% above their recommended weight, they may be considered overweight.

The easiest way to tell is by looking at our dog from above and from the side. You should be able to see a clear definition of their waist and their belly should be higher up than their chest.

If this isn’t the case, your dog can probably stand to lose a few pounds––and now is the perfect time to commit to a weight loss program.

While exercise and activity are important, it’s really all in how much you’re feeding them. Cut out the treats and table scraps and start feeding your dog the right amount at each meal.

Invest in a good measuring cup so that you can feed them the right amount. When you use a measuring cup that is too large, or just eyeball it, it’s easy to accidentally overfeed your dog. Most vets suggest cutting your dog’s daily food intake by 25-33% in order to promote healthy weight loss (source)

You can find more info and tips on how to help your dog lose weight, and get started on this resolution right away!

4. Make socialization a regular thing

Giving your dog the chance to regularly see and socialize with other dogs is an important part of pet ownership. This is an activity that many owners are very good about when their dog is a puppy, but it kind of takes a back seat as they get older.

The thing is, older dogs benefit from socialization just as much as puppies! Seeing other dogs is one of the best sources of mental stimulation, especially for very social and active breeds.

What’s more, regular doggie playdates keeps your dog’s social skills sharp. They maintain their ability to play and won’t inadvertently become aggressive or overly dominant towards other dogs.

Add doggie socialization to your calendar each week for a New Year’s resolution and you’ll both be better off for it! It’s a great way for you and your dog to bond, it provides your dog with much needed mental and physical stimulation, and it gets you outside and chatting with new people, too.

Before you head to the dog park, read this article about Dog Park Etiquette.

5. Try new things together

Going out to new places or trying a new hobby is a great resolution to take on with your dog! It’s another thing on the list that will benefit both of you mentally and physically.

Make it a goal to go to one new place to walk every week. Some ideas include state parks, local conservation areas, beaches, recreation areas, new-to-you neighborhoods, rail trails, dog parks, or even town centers.

Whatever you choose, just switch it up, keep things fresh, and explore new areas together!

6. Start a new hobby

You can take on an indoor hobby with your dog too you know! Why not try your hand at cooking for your dog, or baking some delicious people food dog treats?

You can also regularly play some indoor dog games together, or get back to training basics. All dogs benefit from regularly practicing base commands as a way of stimulation their brains.

And the more regularly you do basic training, the more fun you can have learning new party tricks together 😊

Get the year started off right

So what do you think? Do any of the ideas on this list have you motivated and ready to go? What might you add to list? Let’s keep the ideas rolling down in the comments. We’d love to hear from you!

Happy New Year from all of us at Monster K9!

Well, my friend, if you’re here you must be trying to decide once and for all, should I get a dog? And you know what? I’m glad you are! Because this isn’t a decision to take lightly.

I’m a dog lover through and through, with three dogs of my own; however, I’m also the first to say that not everyone is cut out for dog ownership. There’s a big difference between loving dogs and having a dog of your own.

At the end of the day, as long as your willing to step up and make the commitment to your dog’s health, nutritional, physical and emotional needs, you’re going to be just fine.

But taking a look within and pondering the questions in this article will give you a better idea of whether you can answer the question of should I get a dog with a resounding yes.

Should I get a dog: 5 Questions to ask yourself

Okay, before you decide to get a dog, it’s important to evaluate your personal readiness in terms of lifestyle, stability and readiness. Here’s what you need to consider:

Does my lifestyle mesh well with the dog life?

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that dogs need constant, round the clock care. Before you bring a dog into your life you need to take stock of your current lifestyle. Do you already live a life that a dog could easily fit into? Or would you need to significantly adapt your lifestyle with the addition of a dog?

Some specifics to think about are:

• Do you have time for a daily walk (or more!) early every morning?
• Are you home during the day? If not, are you able to stop in during the day or hire a dog walker?
• How often do you travel? Are you willing to cut back on travel, travel with your dog, and/or are you ready to foot the bill of a dog sitter?
• Do you wake up early? Are you ready to adapt your routine to fit your dog’s needs every single day? Dogs don’t have a sense of sleeping in on the weekend remember

Can I financially support a dog right now?

Dogs can become quite expensive, especially if they develop any kind of health issues. When you decide to get a dog, you have to be ready to give them the health care they need should issues arise. It’s not uncommon to have unexpectedly large vet bills from time to time!

You should also think about how a dog will affect your monthly budget. Expenses such as dog food, dog walker/sitter, training classes, gear, and grooming do tend to add up. A lot of this will depend and vary on the type and age of the dog you decide to get. But it’s all important to keep in mind!

Are my loved ones on board with the decision?

This may not be applicable, but if you have a significant other, family, roommates or close friends you visit with often, it’s a good idea to make sure they are on board! You want to make sure everyone is comfortable with the decision and will allow you AND your dog into their life.

This is most important when these loved ones are people you live with! It’s very important to discuss a big decision like getting a dog ahead of time. Surprise dogs end up back in shelters far too often. Don’t impulse get a dog or get a dog as a gift. This should be a serious conversation.

Am I ready to commit through all seasons of life?

So, you may be nodding your head yes to a lot of these questions, but make sure you aren’t just thinking about the now. How will your dog fit into your life as you age and go through different seasons of life?

Consider factors like starting a family, moving, job promotions, aging, and declining mobility and health. These are all realities that may impact your ability to properly meet your dog’s needs over the course of their life.

Do I know what owning a dog entails?

If you’ve never owned a dog or been close to someone who owned a dog, it’s so important to read and do your research! You need to know what you’re getting yourself into! Learn about positive reinforcement training, house training, crate training, and exercise needs.

The Monster K9 blog is FULL of great articles and resources on all of your large breed dog owning needs! We’ve also got a Complete Guide to Large Breed Dogs that’s a must for new owners!

Should I get a dog? 15 Signs you’re ready

Once you’ve done a little self-reflection based on the questions above, check to see if you’re meeting all of the “ready signs” below. While there’s no exact formula to knowing if you should get a dog, this should give you a pretty good idea of where you’re at

• You’ve done your research on basic training and caring for dogs
• You’ve decided whether adopting or buying from a breeder is a better choice for you
• You’ve decided whether an adult dog or puppy is a better choice for you
• You’ve considered different breeds and found one that matches your lifestyle
• You’ve owned other pets (or at least plants)
• You’re good at keeping a routine
• You can make commitment to exercising and stimulating your dog
• You know it’s going to be frustrating at times
• You’re home or current living situation is dog friendly
• The people in your life are on board with you getting a dog
• You’re ready financially to care for a dog
• You’re available emotionally to care for a dog, especially as they age
• You’re physically able to care for a dog
• You know that your dog will be there even as changes happen in your life (like a growing family!)
• You’re ready to take the next steps to prepare

Related Reading: Dog Essentials: Gear Every Dog Owner Should Have

Should I get a dog? Only YOU know for sure

With this guide, you should be able to get a better sense of if now’s the right time to add a dog to your life. I don’t think I have to tell you that dog’s are the most amazing companions. They bring so much love and joy to life, and I can’t imagine life without one.

However, they are a serious commitment and you need to make sure you’re ready for that! But if you are, I say jump right in and never look back, you’re gonna love it.

Looking for some more inspiration? Check out these breed round-ups to help your research!

• 7 Easy to Train Dogs
• The Best Mellow Dog Breeds
• 6 Large Dogs That Are Hypoallergenic
• The Largest Dog Breeds

What do you think is an important sign of being ready for a dog? Share in the comments!

Housetraining a rescue dog is actually not very different than house training a puppy! And the good news is, it’s usually a faster and less frustrating process.

If you’ve recently adopted an adult dog that’s in need of some potty-training, or maybe you’re looking to re-train or work on some bathroom related challenges with your adult dog, you’re in the right place!

Most important, if you’ve rescued an adult dog, keep in mind that you don’t know their history. Maybe they came from a home with a schedule and some basic training, but it’s also possible they lived their life mostly outside or were always in their crate.

Approach housetraining with some patience and consistency, and your dog will be housetrained in no time. If there’s one thing that’s certain, all dogs are capable of learning new things--especially when positive reinforcement and routines are in place.

Make a routine and stick with it

When you bring your rescue dog home, it’s important to implement a schedule right away. Dogs thrive on predictability, and with rescue dogs, a predictable schedule can be even more important for a smooth transition--including housetraining.

The goal is to send your dog a message of security and safety. One of the best ways to communicate that is with lots of positivity and predictability.

So what does this mean? Every day you want to try to take your dog out and feed them at roughly the same time. Even more than that, you want to create routines around where they go to the bathroom, where you feed them, and when they can expect longer bouts of exercise and play.

In the first few weeks, when you are working on house training your rescue dog, aim to take your dog out 6-8 times per day, or once every 1-2 hours. This won’t last forever! In fact, for some adult rescue dogs, they only need this intensive training for 3-4 days.

Once you see that your dog is catching on to holding it and going outside, they should be able to work up to 4-6 hours stints between bathroom breaks. But in the beginning, frequency is key!

For this reason, I always recommend people take a little time off work when they first adopt a dog so that they can really focus on bonding and training. If this isn’t possible, you can lean on support or hire help while you get your dog housetrained and adjusted to their new home.

Here’s a sample schedule for housetraining your rescue dog:

• 7am: up for the day, go right outside, come in and do breakfast
• 8am: out again for bathroom and longer exercise session
• 10am: bathroom break
• 12pm bathroom break
• 2 pm bathroom break
• 4 pm bathroom break and longer exercise session
• 6pm dinner
• 6:30pm dinner followed by bathroom break
• 8:30/9pm out for the last time
• Overnight: one scheduled bathroom break as needed

Utilize a crate, even if it’s not forever

The next key to quickly housetraining your rescue dog is by using a crate. Crate training is a valuable tool for all dogs not only because it helps with housetraining, but it provides a haven, builds routine, and gives them a place to mentally decompress.

Most salient to this article – it makes housetraining so much easier because dogs instinctively don’t like to soil where they sleep! Aim to have your dog in their crate during the night, and any time you can’t have a close eye on them to prevent an accident.

The most important tips to remember when crate training is to keep the crate as a positive space. Never use the crate as a punishment. What’s more, only put your dog into their crate after they’ve had other needs met.

For more on this, read Crate Training Older Dogs and The Benefits of Crate Training

Other tips for housetraining your rescue dog

• When you bring your dog outside to go to the bathroom, bring them to the same spot every time. For adult dogs this can actually help them learn faster, and it’s a benefit to you!
• Every time your dog successfully goes to the bathroom outside, give them immediate praise. Don’t hesitate to bring out all the stops! Special treats and tons of positive reinforcement are great. You want your dog to know that eliminating outside is awesome
• When your dog goes to the bathroom outside, use a consistent word or phrase to signal what they’re doing. Quickly, your dog will associate the command, and you’ll be able to use it to get them to go on cue
• If you catch your dog going inside, stop them with a firm no (or other interjection) and lead them immediately outside. No extensive scolding is necessary
• If you find an accident in the house after the fact, simply clean it well. It is a myth that putting your dog’s nose in it or scolding them after the fact has any positive or productive effect on the process. Cleaning it well is important though! Some experts say that the lingering smell of urine can actually encourage them to continue to do it in the same spot
• Set your dog up for success! If they’re having accidents more often than not, you may not be taking them outside often enough. With puppies, some people take them out every 30 minutes. If your adult rescue dog is simply not getting it, take them out more frequently until they do
• Help your dog signal that they need to go out. I’m a huge proponent of using a bell on the door! Tie a bell on a string to the main door you use to take your dog out. Ring the bell every time you take them outside. Amazingly, your dog will begin nosing the bell to signal they need to go out. We’ve done it with two of our dogs, and countless friends have had it work when I suggest it!
• Remember that eating and drinking leads to more bathroom trips, especially while your dog is learning their new elimination schedule. Plan to take your dog out 15-30 minutes after a meal
• When you take your dog out to use the bathroom, spend a little time playing or walking after they go. If you take them right back inside, they may start delaying going when you get outside in order to gain more time outside. Dogs are smart after all! This is also why doing bigger chunks of exercise at predictable times are important. Your dog will start to know when they can expect longer outside breaks and when they need to be quick

Ready to housetrain your rescue dog?

Honestly, this isn’t going to be too hard! Some rescue dogs need a little more patience than others, but all dogs can learn to eliminate outside.

With the steps and tips outlined in this article, your dog should be well on their way to housetraining in a matter of a few days or weeks.

In rare and extreme cases, a trainer can help. But with a crate, a predictable routine, and consistency you’ve got this!

With a newly adopted dog in your home, don’t miss some of our other great resources and articles:

• 8 Tips for Training an Older Dog
• Tips for Adopting an Adult Dog
• Dog 101: 9 Things First Time Dog Owners Should Know
• Monster K9 Field Guide to Adult Dogs: The Ultimate Reference

Looking for a list of easy to train dogs? You are in the right place! Researching the right dog for you and your family is one of the most important things you can do before getting a dog. And that’s true whether you’re adopting a rescue, or purchasing a puppy from a breeder.

The first step in deciding what dog to get is a look at your own personality, lifestyle, and availability. From there, you can factor in what you desire in a dog, and then it’s time to do some research!

If you’re here, I’m guessing you’re on that research step. Hopefully by now you’ve got an idea of the size of dog you’d like, and even what kind of activity level you can handle. You’re ready to learn about easy to train dogs.

Here’s I’ve put together a round-up of large dog breeds that are easy to train. So let’s get to it!

A note about breeds that are easy to train

These dogs are as smart as they come, and will make things like housebreaking, crate training and basic commands a lot easier to accomplish.

But before we dive in, I want to make an important note. Easy to train doesn’t necessarily equal well-behaved. The smartest dog can quickly become the most frustrating if their exercise needs aren’t being met.

What’s more, very smart dogs are usually bred to perform a job or task. So, these breeds may be more prone to boredom (which can lead to destructive behavior), obsessive behaviors (like paw licking and chewing), and even separation anxiety than dogs that aren’t on the working spectrum.

Of course, there are exceptions to every generalization – but on the whole, I’ve found this to be true.

In short, just make sure that the dog you’re choosing is right for you on multiple levels. You want a dog who’s energy level and exercise needs meet yours, in addition to their intelligence and easy training.

Related Reading: Dog 101: 10 Tips for First Time Dog Owners

What to look for in an easy to train dog

As you search for an easy to train dog, there are certain characteristics to be aware of. These tips can help people looking to adopt a rescue dog or mixed breed find an easy to train dog, too!

This is because certain dog lines, groups of dogs, and characteristics tend to naturally lead to a dog that’s going to catch on to training more quickly than others. These are things you can usually tell, even about mixed breeds, based on a dog’s history, looks, or background.

Here are some things to keep in mind as you search for easy to train dogs:

• Motivated by food
• Social nature
• Ability to focus
• Eager to please
• Loyal and enjoys companionship
• Comes from a working breed or group

Related Reading: Basic Training: How to Teach Your Dog to Sit and Other Tips

7 Easy to Train Dogs

1. Standard Poodle

Standard Poodles are gaining popularity in recent years because they are a hypoallergenic large-breed dog. According to the AKC, they rank in the top 10 most popular dog breeds.

Poodles are highly intelligent dogs that are very easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement style training. They are people-oriented and enjoying pleasing their family and owners. By starting young and staying consistent with your training efforts, you can easily maintain a very well-trained Poodle.

Poodles are not known to be aggressive but are good watchdogs because of their protective instincts. They are generally quiet throughout the day, but they will bark enthusiastically when startled or when visitors come to your home.

One thing to note, this breed thrives on companionship, which makes them prone to separation anxiety. Some describe Poodles as being hypersensitive to sounds and sudden movements, which can mean they aren’t a great fit for families with very young children (source) because of the unpredictable energy children bring. They do better in homes that are calm and peaceful.

2. Collie

Collies are one of the friendliest, loving breeds out there. They are known for their ability to bond with children and have loving lasting relationships with kids as they grow up. Collies take on a playful and loving role with kids while also protecting them. There exist many heartwarming anecdotes about the relationships between children and their Collies.

Beyond that, Collies are intelligent and happy, making them easy to train with positive reinforcement. Due to their extremely social nature, Collies don’t like to be left alone and do best in a busy household with lots of people. They aren’t the type of breed to attach to one person, instead, they enjoy the love of everyone in the family. The more the merrier in their mind!

Despite their herding and guarding roots, most Collies love to retrieve as well! This makes for an excellent way to exercise this active breed.

3. Golden Retriever

Golden Retrievers always land a spot in the AKC top 5 most popular dog breeds. These adorable, loyal and smart dogs make excellent family dogs. They are easy to train, are arguably the cutest puppies around, and their intelligence can lead them to successful working dog careers, too.

Golden Retrievers are active and very smart dogs. They are loyal, fun-loving, and friendly towards humans.  They are not the type of dog to attach to one person only. This makes them perfect in an active family setting. Golden Retrievers are highly social and do not like to be alone for long periods of time.

It’s important that you are ready to make a commitment to your Golden Retriever's physical and mental needs. Because they are smart and active dogs, committing to daily exercise, training, and mental stimulation is important or you will be dealing with destructive chewing and other less than desirable behaviors in the home.

4. Labrador Retriever

Similar to the Golden Retriever, Labrador Retrievers also usually take a spot in the 5 most popular dogs in the US.  Labs are very smart, easy to train, agreeable, and make excellent family dogs. They’re know for being very food driven which makes learning basic commands and house training your Lab with positive reinforcement is a breeze.

This working breed is large in size and was originally (and still are!) bred as bird hunting dogs. Because of their intelligence and athletic abilities, Labs require adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation. While they are the ultimate family dog, don’t forget they are still a working breed!

Without proper exercise, especially when they are young, your Lab can cause quite a bit of trouble in the house and be prone to destructive behavior.

5. German Shepherd

Perhaps one of the most iconic dogs in both popular culture and everyday life for their work as police dogs, in the armed forces, and with disabled persons, the German Shepherd Dog is very popular and very smart.

Because of their intelligence, there are very easy to train! They have incredible memories and will quickly adapt, adjust and pick-up on your routines, often acting a step ahead of you. Extra training classes and efforts to keep your German Shepherd mentally stimulated will go a long way in their happiness and a calm disposition around the house.

Because of their intelligence, when their mental and physical needs are not being met, German Shepherds are prone to obsessive habits like licking and chewing themselves or furniture, separation anxiety and generally frustrating behavior.

6. Bernese Mountain Dog

Bernese Mountain Dogs are best known for the super friendly dispositions and are ranked as one of the best breeds for families with children. They are playful and energetic, but once they are full-grown are also able to be gentle, kind, and adaptable to the unpredictable energy of kids.

Berners are highly intelligent working breed dogs. They are often referred to as an “all-purpose” farm dog because of their ability to herd, guard and pull around the farm in every season. Because of these traits, this breed requires a lot of exercise, especially when they are young.

Because of their social and sensitive nature, Bernese Mountain Dogs thrive on positive reinforcement training. They love to be with their family and don’t do well when left alone for long periods of time. In fact, you may see them act up or start chewing if they are left alone too often.

7. Rottweilers

Rottweilers are highly intelligent dogs that are loyal, playful, and make great family dogs if they are well socialized, exercised, and properly trained. Rottweilers are not a breed for a novice owner, but with the right training and socialization in place, they make wonderful companions.

Rottweilers are extremely loyal and intelligent. But they are also well known for being protective and often get a bad rap for being aggressive or dangerous. Sadly, this can happen with Rottweilers, but it is the specific result of poor training, lack of socialization, and inadequate stimulation.

When Rottweilers are properly trained and socialized they are known for being extremely loving, great with kids, playful, energetic, and cuddly.

Most dogs are easy to train!

It’s true! At the end of the day, most dogs ARE easy to train with patience, consistency and reinforcement. Above, I’ve listed some of the most popular and intelligent breeds out there, but every dog has training potential.

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, in addition to trainability, it’s so important to find a dog that matches your lifestyle. Keep in mind that dogs that aren't motivated by food, or enjoy solitude might be a bit more challenging or stubborn, but still not impossible to train!

Here are some other Monster K9 articles and resources that might be helpful:

• The Field Guide to Large Dog Owners
• 7 Mellow Dog Breeds for Large Dog Lovers
• 8 Must-Know Tips for Training an Older Dog
• Adopting an Adult Dog? Benefits, Tips and More!

Whether you’re in the planning stages or you’ve recently brought home a new dog, this list of tips for first time dog owners is for you!

You see, there’s a lot that goes into owning and caring for a dog. Sure, you know the basics. Take them out a few times a day, go on a walk, and make sure they eat. But there’s actually a lot more to it than that.

If I had to tell you the hallmark of dog 101 it’s this: consistency, and routine. Whether that’s with what you feed them, when you walk them, or how you train them. Stay consistent and things will be just fine.

But I’m not going to leave you hanging there. Read on for my top 9 tips for first time dog owners. You can rock this dog thing with just a little extra know how. With a pack of three dogs, and countless others that have passed on, you’re in good hands.

1. Research your breed or adoptee beforehand

This tip is number one on purpose. Researching your breed, or the dog you plan to adopt, is essential to planning and preparing to bring them into your home. Certain breeds are a lot easier for first time dog owners because they are more adaptable and easily trained.

But even if you are up for the challenge you need to make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into. Make sure you understand what their grooming, dietary, and exercise needs are like. What’s more, find out about typical behavior characteristics, too.

Too often first-time dog owners get caught up in the look of their dog, and suddenly have a dog on their hands that doesn’t fit their lifestyle. A classic example is a Siberian Husky. These beautiful dogs are surrendered at higher rates than other breeds because they are serious handful due to their extremely high exercise needs and clever personalities.

If you plan to adopt a mixed breed, you can still ask a lot of questions before adopting to learn as much as you can from the shelter or agency before bringing your first dog home.

Related Reading: 7 Mellow Dog Breeds for Large Dog Lovers

2. Weigh the benefits of buying vs adopting

Next, if you’re still in the planning stage, think through whether adopting or buying a dog is the right choice. In many cases, adopting is the way to go. You can opt to adopt an older dog and skip the puppy stage, and you can give a stable loving home to a dog in need. Often you can even adopt pure bred dogs if you have your heart set on a certain breed.

However, I’m certainly not here to judge if you want to buy a puppy. Many people are excited about getting a puppy of a certain breed, knowing their history and health. If you do decide to buy a puppy be sure to research and find a reputable breeder who uses ethical and safe breeding practices.

3. Pros and cons of adopting a puppy vs an adult dog

Still on the fence of whether an adult dog or puppy is right for you? As a first time dog owner, adopting an adult dog can be a lot easier and a great way to get used to dog ownership.

On the other hand, adopting or buying a puppy give you the opportunity to train them from the beginning and you won’t have the obstacle of your dog’s potentially negative or challenging past.

Here are some of the pros of adopting an adult dog:

• You can skip the challenging puppy stage
• Many adult dogs are housetrained and have basic commands, even if they were surrendered to a shelter
• If the dog is older than 4, their exercise needs, and general energy level won’t be as intense
• Adult dogs can be easier to train and less of a handful than puppies
• Adult dogs have a harder time finding homes

Here are some pros of adopting a puppy:

• You will be the first and only owner
• There aren’t bad habits or negative experiences to cope with
• If you’re planning to use your dog for hunting, therapy, herding, or in some other work-like capacity, getting them as a puppy can make training easier

4. Prepare for training from day one

Whether you’ve chosen a puppy or an adult dog as a first-time dog owner, approaching training from day one is important. Dogs thrive on consistency!

For this reason, you want to set the stage on what’s acceptable and expected from the moment they come into your home. Make sure you have a plan in place for house training, basic obedience, crate training, etc. so that you can get started right away.

5. Gather up the proper gear

Before you bring your dog home, you’ve got to have the right gear ready to go. Bringing a dog home to an unprepared house can be a big mistake.

Here’s a quick list to get you going:

• Crate
• Collar, tags, leash
• Feeding and water bowls
• Dog bed
• Dog food
• Grooming supplies
• Dog-proofing supplies
• Toys and dog chews

Head to the New Dog Checklist for more details on these items and other ways to prepare!

6. Crate train your dog

Too many first-time dog owners think they won’t need a crate. Don’t make this mistake! Crate training will make your life so much easier and will provide your dog with a safe and positive space of their own. As long as you never use the crate for punishment or in a negative way, your dog’s create becomes their den.

It will give you peace of mind that they are safe and staying out of trouble, and it can accelerate training efforts and house training.

To read more about the pros of crate training and how to get it done, head here for an overview of crate training your puppy, and here for details specific to crate training your adult dog.

7. Understand the costs associated with dog ownership

I think that first time dog owners don’t realize just how expensive owning a dog can be. In the first year you can expect to spend between $1500 and $2000!

This factors in the start-up cost of all the gear and initial vet care, plus monthly expenses like food and the odd trip to the groomer. The cost goes up if you need to invest in a doggie daycare or dog walker.

After the first year it’s estimated that you’ll spend between $1000-$1500 each year of your dog’s life depending on their needs and your lifestyle. Again, things like boarding, day care, and regular grooming will put you on the higher end of the spectrum (or even over it!). (source)

Related Reading: Is Pet Insurance Worth the Cost?

8. Commit to your dog’s exercise needs

Don’t underestimate just how much exercise your dog is going to need––especially if you choose to adopt a puppy or young adult dog (less than 4 years old). And don’t be fooled into a false sense of security when your 3-month-old puppy naps a lot.

Dogs are often at their wildest and peak exercise needs between 9 months and 3 years old. Be ready to exercise your dog 2-3 times per day, or pay the price in the form of destructive, unwanted behavior! This is especially true if you choose a working breed dog like a Labrador, German Shepherd, Pointer, Beagle, etc.

Related Reading: Exercise Your Dog in Every Weather and Season

9. Keep a consistent schedule

I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, consistency and routine are key! Your dog doesn’t know the difference between a Saturday and a Tuesday. It’s important that your dog can expect to eat, exercise and go outside at roughly the same times every day.

This is equally as important for adult dogs and puppies. If you adopt an adult dog, the transition will be far easier with a solid routine.

You’ve got this, First Time Dog Owner!

Yes, I’m talking to you! Owning a dog comes with a set of challenges and commitments, but if you’re here, I already know you’re going to be a great owner. At the end of the day if you’re willing to provide what your dog needs and learn what you can do to help them, everything is going to be okay.

And we’re here to help you pick up the slack!

Be sure to browse our collection of helpful articles on the blog, and invest in our Complete Field Guide for Large Dogs. It's perfect for first time dog owners--have all your questions answered in one place, right at your fingertips, in an easy to navigate format!

If you’re here, I can bet you are ready to begin crate training an older dog. You’re wondering how to approach this, and if it’s even possible. Well, the good news is that it’s totally possible!

And really, crate training an older dog isn't that different from crate training a puppy. The principles of consistency and keeping things positive are going to be the pillars of your success.

The biggest difference when you’re working with an older dog is that it might take a little more time and patience, because there might be routines, bad habits, or even negative associations that need undoing.

Here we’ll cover the why behind crate training older dog, times you might consider introducing a crate with an older dog, and the tips and advice you need to get it done.

Some common reasons for crating an older dog

Usually when people ask us about crate training an older dog, there are one of three scenarios in play. Let’s take a quick look at some of the most common reasons people are looking for info about crating their adult dog.

1. A newly adopted or rescued adult dog

With adoption becoming a more and more popular option for families (yay!), many of us are faced with questions about how to crate train our adopted adult dogs. First of all, I’m so glad you’re deciding to crate train!

Crate training comes with a wide range of benefits including:

• Easier house training
• Safety for your dog
• Providing a safe haven
• Routine and predictability
• A place to mentally decompress

When you look at those benefits, it should be an easy decision that this is a great approach when a rescue dog joins your family. Adult dogs that are coming from an unknown past will benefit from the safe, positive space that their crate provides.

With adopted dogs it is important to remember they may have a negative association with a crate in their past. It’s always possible that their crate was used for punishment, neglect, or abuse.

We’ll get into this more below, but you can still succeed with crate training, and it can still benefit your dog! It’s just going to take more time and patience.

2. An older dog with sudden behavior issues

Another reason owners introduce a crate to their older dpg is when your older dog suddenly exhibits behavior issues. You might be seeing accidents in the house, destructive chewing, aggressive behavior or anything in between.

If you are experiencing unwanted behaviors, crate training can really help keep them at bay. If your dog is crated, they can’t destructively chew or soil in the house out of spite. On the flip side, the crate might even provide them with a safe space to go to if they are feeling uncomfortable with a new baby or new pet that’s joined the family.

The big thing to be aware of if this is your situation––you need to get to the bottom of their behavior! Crate training may be an important step in mitigating the issues, but whenever there’s a sudden change in your dog it’s a good idea to check in with your vet and dig a little to figure out what might be causing the issue in the first place.

For more info and tips about this, check out Older Dog Suddenly Chewing? Here’s What it Means and What to Do About it!

3. An older dog whose health is declining

The third most common scenario is a family dog that has declining health. It may no longer be safe for your dog to be loose in the house when you aren’t there. Crating your older dog can keep them safe from things like falls, getting stuck somewhere, not being able to get to their water, or any number of issues depending on your dog’s diagnosis.

Just like in the other scenarios, you’ll need to keep it super positive and consistent. When our dogs don’t feel well they are often scare and more prone to separation anxiety, so creating a sense of positivity around the crate is key.

Related Reading: Caring for your Senior Dog

How to crate train an adult dog

• Introduce a crate that is large enough for your dog to turn around and lie down comfortably, but isn’t too big
• If chewing and soiling aren’t and issue, make their crate a cozy and comfortable spot for them to spend their time
• Begin by having them around their crate with the door open. Fix the door in such a way that it cannot be closed
• See how your adult dog acts around the crate. If you have a newly adopted adult dog, you may find that they are familiar with the crate and go right in! Amazing.
• If you see apprehension or avoidance, start to entice your dog towards the crate. Put treats inside the crate and when they are in their pet them and give lots of praise and positive attention
• Continue to leave treats in the crate, anytime your dog willingly goes into the crate unprompted (even to get treats) give praise and affection
• Start to associate going into the crate with a consistent word(s) that you can use as a command. This might just be crate or other use words like spot, bed, house, etc.
• Once your dog is comfortable and willingly going into their crate on their own (or with minimal bribing) close the door for a short period of time while you are home and even in eye shot
• The duration will depend on your dog and how well this is all going. For dogs with significant negative connotations with crates this might be a few minutes. For dogs that aren’t as bothered by the new idea of a crate, try 20-30 minutes for the first experience
• Over a few days, build up their time in the crate with you home, then try leaving your house. The first time you leave your house with your adult dog crated, aim to be gone for only 20-30 minutes. This way you build a sense of trust that you are definitely coming back. This is especially important with newly adopted or rescued dogs
• With consistency, your dog will adjust to being left in their crate while you are out. Ideally, your dog should never be in their crate during the day for more than 4-6 hours

Head here for step-by-step advice for crate training puppies

A few other tips related to crate training your adult dog

• Always make sure your dog’s physical and mental needs are met before putting them in the crate
• If your dog has lived a life with you un-crated, be aware that they’re used to free access to the water bowl all day. This is a big change for them. Try to encourage your dog to drink water before going in the crate
• Adding chew toys, a favorite bed, and extra treats will make the experience more positive
• If you have a dog with severe separation anxiety or a clear issue with crates (most common in adopted dogs) you may need to consult a professional trainer

And because we’re on the topic, don’t miss these other helpful articles and resources:

• 8 Tips for Training an Older Dog
• Adopting an Adult Dog: Tips, Benefits and More
• Complete Guide for Large Dog Owners

Do you have a question or tip to add to the list? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below!

Making sure your dog has some basic training and will listen to you when needed is essential as a dog owner. Dog training will not only help with your sanity, but it keeps your dog and the people around him safer, too.

A dog that is well trained is less likely to get themselves hurt or into trouble, and the people around your dog are less likely to have a bad experience. What’s more, you will have peace of mind knowing that your dog will respond in situations that are dangerous.

The very first step to a well-trained dog is often the sit command. Dogs, whether they’re puppies or adults, tend to pick up this command quickly and it’s a great way to get the ball rolling on positive, reward-based training.

Today, we’re going to go over how to teach your dog to sit. Remember it’s never too late to attempt training with your dog! Training an older dog is totally possible. And if you haven’t adopted or brought home a dog yet, beginning dog training from day one is definitely the way to go.

How to teach your dog to sit

Teaching your dog to sit is a great place to start, because it also works to get your dogs attention and teach them what training sessions are all about. If training is completely new, get your dog’s attention by giving them a food reward for looking and tuning into you.

Get them motivated

The introduction of a food reward should be enough to cue them in and begin training. If you are training a puppy I recommend using pieces of kibble. Kibble is lower in fat and calories than treats, and they will see it as a reward if they haven’t been exposed to treats yet.

If your dog is picky, or not easily motivated by food, you may need to use traditional dog treats. Another alternative, for puppies and adult dogs alike, is to use human food.

There are a number of human foods that are safe for dogs. Fruits and vegetables work especially well because they are tasty and motivating, but low in calorie. 

Steps to teaching a dog to sit

Here’s a rundown of how to approach training your dog to sit:

1. Stand in front of your dog and capture their attention
2. Hold a treat to your dog’s nose and slowly raise the treat into the air
3. As your dog’s nose goes in the air, their bottom will go down
4. Immediately use the word sit and give a treat
5. If they stand right back up, repeat the process
6. When they are starting to get it, you want to work on them staying in their sit
7. To do this, once they sit, start quickly handing them treats and repeat the word sit to keep them sitting
8. The idea is to teach them to stay sitting, instead of thinking the command is sit and stand right back up

Increase the challenge

As your dog gets better at sitting, you can make the training sessions more challenging. Here are some ways to do that:

• Try to slowly get further away from your dog when you give the command
• Make them wait longer in the command before rewarding them
• Introduce a release word for when they can get out of their sit
• Up the distraction level by practicing their sit around other people or dogs

What to do after they know sit?

Once your dog knows the sit command, they’ve also learned the skill of listening and tuning into you during training sessions. From here, you can build on your dog’s basic commands.

For everyone’s safety, it’s important that your dog knows how to sit, come and stay. These three commands are useful in so many situations.

But why stop there? Half the battle to dog training is getting your dog to learn how to be trained. Once you get the ball rolling, take the same consistent, positive approach to teaching them more skills and commands.

For more detailed information about how to teach other commands like down, pay, go to your place, and actionable advice on how to stop unwanted behaviors, check out our complete Guide for Large Dog Owners.

Looking for more information on dog training?

If you’ve found your way here, I’m guessing you’ve got dog training on the brain. Maybe you’re getting ready to add a puppy or adult dog to your pack? Or maybe you’ve got a dog on your hands that’s driving you up the wall.

Whatever the case may be, we’ve got some awesome articles on the blog to help you train your dog right at home. Everything from basic commands to troubleshooting specific issues!

I’ve got three essential tips for you:

1. Make sure your dog is well exercised before starting a training session. It will be so much easier for them to focus and everyone will be less frustrated!
2. Keep it positive. This is so important
3. Be consistent! Use the same simple phrases each time, and stick with it. Some dogs pick things up quicker than others, but they are all capable!

For more info check out these articles:

• 8 Tips for Training Your Adult Dog
• Crate Training Your Dog
• Your Puppy’s First Day Home: House Training and More!

Listen, you can totally do this! With the right positive approach, all dogs can be trained no matter their age.

A lot of people out there love the idea of adding a dog to their life, but know they either can’t handle or can’t commit to a dog with high energy and extensive exercise needs. Luckily, that doesn’t mean you need to pass up on a canine companion.

There are a number of mellow dog breeds out there – and you don’t even have to think small! In fact, some of the largest dog breeds are also some of the most mellow and easy-going. Their large stature doesn’t necessarily mean they need tons of exercise.

Here we’ve compiled a list of our top picks for large dogs that are also mellow dog breeds. In this case you can have your cake and eat it too, a large dog that likes to hang around and chill just as much as you!

One thing to note--even mellow, low-energy dogs need some sources of stimulation and movement (just like us humans!). So while these dogs are on the mellow end of the spectrum, you will still need to commit to once or twice daily walks to keep them healthy and happy.

1. Great Dane

Great Danes are the tallest of all dog breeds, noble and graceful, and yup—a totally mellow dog breed! Don’t confuse size with needing a ton of exercise, Great Danes might be one of the best examples of this. One or two walks per day will keep your Great Dane happy and healthy.

Like others on the list, Great Danes were bred to be guard dogs and make excellent family dogs. They are good with kids, natural people pleasers and respond well to positive (consistent) training.

Great Dane owners will tell you that their Danes think they are lap dogs. They are a very loving, affectionate and mellow dog breed.

Learn more about Great Danes

2. Irish Wolfhound

Irish Wolfounds are very tall, giant dogs with wiry coats and a relatively short life span (even for a giant breed). This mellow dog breed is super friendly and great with kids.

They have low exercise needs due to their giant size, but you can expect a pretty intense prey drive with your Wolffound—they are in the hound group after all! So leashes and fences are usually necessary with this breed.

3. Newfoundland

Newfoundlands are perhaps the most quintessential gentle giant (at least in my mind!). They make for excellent therapy dogs and companions for low energy humans and families with children. They weigh in between 100-150 pounds, but are pure, fluffy love.

Newfoundlands are smart and easily trained, and have a gentle and docile nature. They love to swim and are very social in nature. Newfoundlands are the perfect mellow dog breed for families with children and homes where they won’t be left alone for long stretches of time.

4. St. Bernard

Ask anyone who’s had the pleasure of spending time with (or owning) a St. Bernard and you’ll hear the same thing—these are one of the most friendly, agreeable, and trainable dogs out there! St Bernards are giant, clocking in at up to 260 pounds! But it’s pure sweetness.

And, unlike so many working dog breeds, St. Bernards are geneally a low exercise needs breed. These guys are happy with one 20-30 minute walk per dog. They are companion dogs though, and aren’t a good fit for someone who has to be away from home for the majority of the day.

Learn more about Saint Bernards

5. Mastiffs

There are quite a few different types of Mastiffs out there but generally the verdict is the same across the board, these extra large dogs are very sweet and don’t require much exercise beyond a daily walk to two.

Like Great Pyrs, Mastiffs were bred to be guard dogs, so while they are low energy, they will definitely bark a lot if they think there’s an intruder abound. They are also quite social, so this is another mellow dog breed that’s best suited for a home where they won’t be left along for long stretches of time.

6. Basset Hound

Okay, so when you think of large dog breeds, your mind may not go to the Basset Hound. But actually, this is no small breed! Sure they may be short, but bassets are weigh in at up to 65 pounds.

They have low exercise needs and mellow demeanor making them great to owners who aren’t super active. They are a low maintenance and friendly breed that will provide a ton of comic relief to boot.

7. Great Pyrenees

Great Pyrs are very tall, fluffy large breed dogs that weigh in between 80 and 120 pounds. Though most agree they look even bigger than that because of their thick coats.

These are smart, clever dogs, but can be challenging to train. They’re often described as a stubborn breed, but this is probably because they were original bred to guard livestock on mountainsides—largely left up to their own devices.

With all of that said though, people who have Great Pyrs say they are great with children and make loving companions. They are quite mellow when it comes to exercise needs, happy with one or two walks per day. However, their guard dog roots mean they do bark quite a bit, and are happiest in a home where they can spend a ton of time lazing outside.

Learn more about The Great Pyrenees

Consider adopting an older dog

If you’re here, I can guess you’re interested in adding a dog to your pack, but aren’t feeling the whole crazy, high energy things of say a German Shepherd or Husky. Have you considered adopting an older dog?

Dogs tend to be at their most challenging (and frustrating) between ages 1 and 3. This is when exercise needs peak, and when dogs start to really challenge the authority of their owner. Once a dog reaches 4+ years old (generally), they begin to mellow out.

If you’re someone who’s looking for a mellow dog breed, adopting a dog that is 5 years or older could be a great choice. You can skip the challenges of puppy-hood and the frustrations that many feel with their young adolescent dogs.

You can learn more about what it’s like to adopt an older dog and even some tips for how to train an older dog if you decide that could be a good choice for you!

Other resources for your search

Not quite sure what you want? You might find these other resources helpful as you research dog breeds that could be a good fit for you and your lifestyle:

• 6 Large and Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds
• New Dog Checklist
• The Largest Dog Breeds

Have a mellow dog breed for large dog lovers to add to the list? We'd love to hear from you! Chime in below.

Adopting an adult dog is a wonderful option for so many people and families. Not only are you rescuing a dog that’s in need, but skipping the whole puppy phases comes with its own benefits!

The thing about adopting an adult dog vs getting a puppy is that there are a few differences in how you should prepare before the big day. Here you’ll find a discussion of the benefits and tips to make the first week home a success.

I also want to walk through some considerations before taking the plunge on adoption because the last thing we want is for that dog to wind up back in a shelter or foster care program. Sometimes people with the best intentions just don’t do enough prior research and prep before committing.

Alright, let’s get to it. Adopting an adult dog: everything you need to know!

Things to consider before adopting an adult dog

Anyone who considers themselves a dog lover has surely that about getting a dog – and in particular about adopting an adult dog. The thing is, loving dogs is a whole lot different than committing to one for their entire life.

This is especially true for an adult dog that might come with their own set of challenges based with their past. Here’s a list of considerations before moving forward with your decision to adopt. These aren’t meant to dissuade you, but instead help you realize just how big of a commitment this really is!

Questions to ask yourself before adopting a dog

• Does my current lifestyle support the addition of a dog? Will my dog be left alone too often or do I travel a lot? Do I like to go out in the evenings after work? Am I often away from home?
• Will I have time to exercise my dog daily? If not can I budget for a dog walker?
• Can I afford to care for a dog? Consider vet costs, dog food, boarding, and other dog essentials
• Do I have a fenced in yard or dog friendly outdoor space? Does my apartment building allow pets?
• Will I commit to this dog even if behavior issues arise? This is an important reality to prepare for when adopting an adult dog
• How will your dog fit into your life plans? It’s important to consider things like marriage, having kids, career changes, and big moves before adopting a dog
• Do you currently have young kids in your home? Make sure you are ready to take another big commitment onto your plate
• Have you owned a dog before? Certain breeds/mixes and ages are much easier than others. Keep in mind that from ages 1-3 dogs are often the most frustrating and demanding! They are testing limits and in need of significant daily exercise to keep unwanted behavior at bay
• Is everyone in your family or home on board with the idea of you getting a dog?

7 Benefits of Adopting an Adult Dog

Now that you’ve done a sort of personal reflection on whether a dog will fit into your lifestyle let’s talk about all the amazing benefits of adopting an adult dog!

Often adoption is 100% the way to go – there are so many dogs out there in need of stable, loving homes. And what’s more, they’ve got a lot of love to give, too! There’s also some serious advantage to skipping the whole puppy stage. Let’s take a look at some of the amazing benefits of adopting an adult dog.

Benefits to adopting an adult dog

1. Most older dogs, even ones surrendered to shelters and adoption agencies, have already been housetrained
2. Adult dogs can actually be easier to train! It’s a myth that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks
3. Older dogs (4+) may not need as much exercise as puppies and 1-3 year old dogs. Don’t read this as no exercise, but it probably won’t be as intense. This might be a better fit for some families
4. Many adult dogs in shelters do have basic training and manners, so it’s not like starting completely from square one
5. Adult dogs have a harder time finding homes and getting adopted than puppies
6. You get the advantage of asking lots of questions about their personality, behavior and needs based on the shelter or adoption agencies experience and knowledge of the dog
7. Adult dogs are ready to take on physical activities right away! You aren’t supposed to run or do lengthy hikes and walks with puppies until they are close to a year old. Adult dogs can join you for more vigorous exercise from the start. Read our tips on how train your dog to run with you if this interests you!

Adopting an Adult Dog? Questions to ask

Now that you know all of the awesome benefits, let’s go over some questions you should ask before adopting. These will help you choose a dog that’s a great fit for your family. It is important to recognize that adult dogs in shelters do come with their own history, potential trauma, and behaviors.

Asking questions is the single best way to find an adult dog that’s a good match for you. What’s more, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting yourself into before you bring them home.

Luckily, shelters and adoption agencies try to provide as much knowledge and transparency as possible about the dogs in their care. Their goal is to find their dogs a forever home, and honesty on both ends is key!

Questions to ask before adopting an adult dog

• How old is the dog?
• Do you know what breed (or mix of breeds) the dog is?
• How is the dog’s health? Does he have any known conditions or predisposition to certain ailments? What about allergies or diet limitations?
• Has the dog suffered any serious injuries
• What do you know about the dog’s history or past home(s)?
• Why was the dog surrendered to the agency or shelter?
• Does the dog have any known behavior issues?
• Does this dog have aggression issues?
• Specifically, does this dog have food aggression issues or other signs of a past with food insecurity?
• Will this dog do well with other dogs?
• How is the dog with other people?
• How is the dog with children?
• Does the dog have basic training and manners?
• Is this dog house trained?
• In its past, was this dog living in a home or kept primarily outdoors?
• Have you noticed any obsessive behaviors or quirks?
• Does this dog have a history of abuse?
• Has the dog ever been in foster care? If yes, ask specifics about that situation
• What kinds of toys does the dog like to play with?
• What level of exercise will this dog require?
• How would you describe this dog’s temperament?
• Will this dog be a good fit for a novice or first time dog owner? (if applicable)
• Does this dog travel well/tolerate the car?
• What will the grooming needs of this dog be like?

Tips for the transition into your home

Once you’ve chosen the right dog for you, there are some concrete things you can do to help with the transition. Remember, when you adopt a dog, no matter what their history is, you know they’ve had some instability in their past.

The number one key during the first week with your newly adopted adult dog is going to be routine, predictability and consistency. You want your dog to feel safe and that everything they need will be provided. Additionally, spending lots of time bonding with your dog is very important. A secure attachment is critical (and really what it’s all about, right?!).

Ideally, you will be able to spend the first 5-7 days with your dog. If it’s not possible to take that much time off, see if you can at least make a long weekend a possibility. Constant companionship and connection in those first days can make for a smoother transition.

Here are some other tips:

• Gather up supplies ahead of time. Have things set up and ready to go! (check out our New Dog Checklist for everything you need)
• Create consistency and routine from day one. This means regular feeding times, taking your dog out at the same times every day, exercise and play sessions at roughly the same time, and a predictable nighttime routine
• Take your dog out to use the bathroom a lot. Even if they are housetrained, they need to get the hang of how to tell you are where to go in their new home
• Work on training from day one and be consistent. Thing through things like where they should go to the bathroom, if they’re allowed on furniture, and how to handle accidents and unwanted behaviors. The Monster K9 Guide to Adult Dogs can really help with this for new owners!
• Give your new dog tons of positive attention and love, let them know that you are their person
• Avoid having visitors for the first few days, you want your new dog to understand who is in their “pack” and what normal life is like here
• When you first arrive home, bring your new dog in on a leash and give them a tour of the home. If your dog immediately start picking up or chewing things they shouldn’tm get right on offering them something they can chew or hold in their mouth
• If you have another dog, make sure the two dogs meet outside first. If you have more than one dog already, have the new dog meet them one at a time
• Understand that your dog’s behavior in the first few days probably aren’t their true personality! Your new dog may be scared and uncertain. Accidents, destructive behavior, excessive barking and extreme separation anxiety from the main handler are not uncommon, even in dogs with no prior behavior issues. These first few days are not a representation of what they’ll be like forever!

Get excited about adopting an adult dog

The decision to adopt a dog is a wonderful choice. There are so many dogs out there looking for their forever home with so much love to give. We adopted two of our dogs, and the bonds we’ve create and joy they bring us is unmatched!

As you prepare to adopt an adult dog, be sure to check out all of the awesome information and resources here at Monster K9. You’ll find loads of info on the blog, and have all the necessary information related to owning, training and caring for your adult dog at your fingertips with the Monster K9 Guide to Adult Dogs. Be sure to check them both out!

Adding a new dog to your family is an exciting event! There’s nothing better than the lifelong bond you're about to form with your new furry companion.

As the days get closer to the big day, it’s important to prepare. But remember--adding a dog to your household is a big decision.

If you’re here, I know that you’re already taking steps to get things set before getting your new dog. This new dog checklist is a no-frills rundown of what you need to get, do, and plan before Fido comes to join the fam.

We’ve broken this new dog checklist down into five essential categories:

1. Essential gear
2. Preparing your home
3. Transition and training
4. Research and commitment

This dog adoption checklist is targeted for families adopting or rescuing adult dogs. If your going the puppy route, head on over to our Puppy Starter Kit. There’s definitely a fair amount of overlap, but there are a few key differences.

With this list, you and your home will be totally ready for the newest member of your pack. Let’s go!

1. Essential gear

Having the right gear ready is essential before you bring your new dog home. Getting the things you need ahead of time allows you to prepare the environment and support a smoother transition for Fido.

Dogs thrive on routine and predictability. For this reason, you don’t want to be switching up a bunch of things during their first few weeks at home as you gather what you need. Get the things ahead of time and have them ready to go.

Here’s a rundown of what you’ll need:

• Crate: I can’t recommend crate training enough when you bring a new dog into your home, no matter how young or old. Starting with a crate from day one creates a positive, safe spot for your dog and predictability for your dog at night and when you are out. Crates also keep you, your home, and your dog safe while you learn about each other and your dog adjust to their new home.
• Feeding and water bowls: Stainless steel bowls with rubber grips on the bottom are a tried and true favorite with my pack
• Collar: Really any collar will do! I like leather ones with a name plate on them so that we don’t have to hear the jingly tags, or cotton ones with name and phone number embroidered in. But you pick what you like!
• Tags: Tags are a must for safety—especially with a new dog who might be prone to running or escaping
• Leash(es): I find it beneficial to get a standard clip leash, and a training lead. Training leads are great for training sessions and teaching your dog to walk on a leash. Standard leashes in the long run will get more use
• Harness: Lots of owners like the kind that have a clip in the front. It discourages leash pulling and create a better walking experience all around
• Dog bed: This isn’t essential, but is definitely nice to have. This is the one item you could wait and see about. If your new dog has chewing habits that need to be broken, it may be beneficial to wait to introduce a bed—this way it doesn’t get destroyed!
• Dog food: Picking the right dog food will depend on your new dog’s size and breed (or mix!), this is why learning about your new dog ahead of time is so important
• Grooming supplies: be sure to choose a brush that’s right for your new dog’s coat type
• Dog-proofing supplies: think about areas you won’t want your dog to be and get any gates that might be necessary
• A few different toys/chews: have a couple of options ready to keep your new dog stimulated and figure out what they are into. I recommend getting a rope, some tough rubber chew toys, and a natural chew like an antler or a high-quality bone

Want all of this info in this article AND SO MUCH MORE in one place? The Monster K9 Guide to Adult Dogs is the perfect reference on everything from choosing the right food to first aid, grooming basics to exercise. And it includes a step-by-step guide to training. Go check it out!

2. Preparing your home

Once you’ve gathered up the gear and supplies, you’ll want to get everything set up. Think about where your dog’s crate should go, feeding supplies and things for walks.

Having things in their expected place will make the transition easier on your new dog when they join your family. They’ll get a sense of expected behavior and routine if things are ready to go from day one.

3. Transition and training

On that note, you’ll want to have a solid transition and training plan in place before bringing your dog home too. I’ve said a few times already how important consistency and predictability will be to a smooth transition.

In the first few weeks with your dog, try to stick to a strict schedule. This will help your dog feel more comfortable and create a trusted bond with you. This means going to bed at the same time, waking up at the same time, regular exercise/daily outings and predictable meal times.

Because we don’t usually know much about our adopted dog’s past, we don’t know how inconsistent or unreliable their previous home was. The transition will be smoother on you and your new dog if they have a sense that everything they need will be coming at predictable times each day.

What’s more, make sure you have a good understanding of dog training before your dog comes home, too. You want to keep things consistent and positive from day one. To get you started, see our articles about troubleshooting common behavior issues, and tips for training older dogs. Beyond that, seek our training classes at your local pet store.

4. Research and commitment

Last on your new dog checklist is to prepare yourself with the proper research and a strong sense of commitment. Too often people adopt dogs with good intentions but end up re-surrendering the dog because they didn’t know what they were getting themselves into.

We adopted our husky when she was 9 months old and she already had 3 homes before us! Huskies are beautiful but they are NOT for novice dog owners.

My point here is that it’s essential to learn as much about the breed you plan to adopt as possible so that you can make sure you are prepared to meet their needs. If you are adopting a mixed breed, you can still learn a lot based on their size and the likely mixes in their lineage.

As for commitment? When you bring a new dog into your life, you need to be ready to meet their needs for their entire life. Your dog is now a priority in your life, even as demands change for you. Make sure mentally and physically you are ready to give them the love, attention, exercise, and health care they will need now and as they age.

The most important part of your new dog checklist

And most importantly--get ready for a lifetime of love and a wild ride. Your new dog is so lucky to have you!

Let us be a part of your journey! There are tons of great articles and resources in the Monster K9 blog. Welcome to the dog life

Training an older dog has a long standing bad reputation. We’ve all heard the old adage—you can’t teach a dog new tricks. But is it true? In short, no!

Training an older dog is totally doable if you’ve got the right attitude and approach. And that’s good news as more and more families are deciding to adopt or rescue older dogs instead of getting puppy.

So whether you’ve found yourself with a new-to-you older dog that’s in need of some training, or you’re wondering how to approach training with a senior member of your pack these tips are going to help you get the job done.

And remember, you absolutely CAN teach an old dog new tricks. And I’m going help you get it done.

Can you train an older dog?

Training an older dog is totally possible, and in some cases might even be easier than training a puppy. Dogs are lifelong learners, and generally speaking they love to please their owners and receive attention. You can leverage these characteristics to train any dog, no matter their age or training background.

The approach you take to training an older dog will vary slightly based on the dog’s breed (if known), background and training experience. We’re going to get into that more in the tips below. But in short, every single dog is capable of being trained, some just might take a little more time and patience than others.

If you’re new to this whole dog owning thing, and recently adopted or rescued an adult or senior dog, you can find tons of great info in the Monster K9 Field Guide for Large Dog Owners. It’s the complete reference guide you need on all things dog (including more in-depth training tips!).

Benefits to training an older dog

So if you’re not already convinced that training your older dog is totally possible if you go about it the right way, I want to point out some of the benefits to training an older dog.

• It keeps them stimulated mentally. This is just as important as physical stimulation for all dogs, and can be even more important for senior dogs that aren’t as physically capable as they once were
• It’s a great way to bond. Your dog loves spending time with you and getting your undivided attention. Training is a great way to make it happen
• Your dog wants to work. Okay, this isn’t true for every dog. But if you’ve got a large dog, chances are they are a working breed. They want a job and when you do training, you’re giving them one
• It’s safer. If you newly adopted an adult dog or senior dog taking them time to train them is important for your safety and the safety of anyone around your dog
• Dog manners are a thing. No one likes being around a dog that constantly jumps, barks, begs, and pees in the house. So if you’ve adopted an adult dog with no training or manners, training is super important

Alright, now let’s get on with the tips for training an older dog.

1. Figure out what your dog already knows

This tip mostly applies to owners who have newly adopted adult or senior dogs. Before you can begin training, you need to figure out what they already know. Pretty quickly you’ll be able to tell if they have general household manners, and if they respond to common commands like sit, down and paw.

Over the first few days, pay attention to their bathroom habits and any cues they might be using to let you know they need to go outside.

If this is an older dog that you’ve had for it’s whole life, it might still be worthwhile to take an assessment of what they know. So many of us drill in basic command training when we first get our dogs and then it kinda falls by the wayside. My own 5 year old lab knew a lot more tricks at one than he does now.

Take account of what they know and remember, then start training them to do new things from there.

2. Approach training an older dog just like a puppy

If the older dog has recently joined your home and doesn’t seem to have any former training, approach training just like you would a puppy. In fact, the whole process of bringing them home should be a lot like your first day home with your puppy.

Let them have time to get acquainted with their surroundings, and start potty training right away. You should take your dog out regularly and praise them extensively any time they use the bathroom outside to create a connection. If you do see your adult dog go in the house, immediately get them outside. This will all click for your dog quickly if you are consistent!

Beyond house training, you can start working on basic commands right away too using a positive behavior method. You can get detailed info on how to go about this in the Monster K9 Field Guide to Adult Dogs.

3. Utilize a crate when house training an older dog

When you bring a new adult dog home, I highly recommend starting them out in a crate. I’m a firm believer in crate training with puppies, and the same goes for new adult dogs.

For one, you don’t know this dog’s history or how they are going to react to being left alone. By crating them at night, when you are out, or when you can’t give your dog undivided attention (at least in the first few weeks), it’s important that they are in a safe and secure space.

You can read more about this in my article, The Benefits of Crate Training and How to Get it Done.

4. A schedule will make training an older dog easier

This is another tip that mostly applies to adopted or rescued adult or senior dogs. By sticking to a predictable schedule you will have quicker success in your training efforts. Try to take your dog out to use the bathroom at the same times every day and have set meal times.

Additionally, plan exercise times and training sessions at roughly the same time each day. All of this routine and predictability will help concepts click faster for your dog.

5. Training an older dog might be easier

One benefit to training an older dog is that it might actually be easier. Some older dogs might already have strong basic commands and skills that you can build on. They’re often not as hyper, wiggly, or jumpy (even if they aren’t well trained) which can make training sessions less frustrating and more productive all around.

Of course, this isn’t the case with every older dog, but certainly a benefit to keep in mind!

6. Keep your older dog’s past in mind

On the flip side, your dog’s past might get in the way of training or create more challenges. If your dog has a history of abuse or neglect, training sessions might become difficult. Your dog may submit, disengage, or even become aggressive in some instances.

Adopting an older dog often carries this unknown factor. To this day our rescued German Shepherd (who was emaciated when we began fostering him) exhibits food aggression if we feed him even a little after the usual time. He clearly had unpredictable meals and hunger in his past. We’ve made amazing progress with this behavior, but I suspect that a little bit of it will always be in him.

My point here is that we can’t know exactly went down in our dog’s past life, but we can do our best to train them and make them comfortable in their new home. In extreme situations and for more novice dog owners, I highly recommend consulting a professional trainer if you are facing challenging behaviors in your training efforts. They are more equipped to handle behavior issues rooted in past experiences.

Related: Common Dog Behavior Issues and How to Fix Them

7. For well-trained older dogs, up the challenge

If your main goal with training an older dog is to bond with them and stimulate them, that’s awesome! I recommend first brushing up on basic commands and then upping the challenge. Nose work and scent games are a favorite around here, and are a great training and brain challenge for all different breeds.

You can also try getting fancy with fun tricks or tasks around the house. Growing up our dog could get the newspaper, open and close our deck door, and do a great little hands-up then play dead routine. All of those things were taught to him when he was 7+ years old!

A testament to the fact that you can definitely teach your old dog new tricks.

8. Keep it positive

As you work on training your older dog, always remember to keep it positive. Reward and praise are key for keeping it fun and making progress.

Have fun training your older dog!

Now you know that there are a ton of benefits to training an older dog and you’ve got the tips you need to make it a success. Above all, don’t be discouraged! There’s no reason you can’t train your older dog.

If it’s a newly adopted dog, training is important for your dog’s safety and they safety of anyone around it. What’s more, training is a wonderful way to establish trust and build a bond with your new pack member.

Do you have a tip about training adult dogs you’d like to add to the list? Be sure to chime in below! We’d love to keep the conversation going.