Bringing home a new dog is very similar to bringing home a new baby and family members and current dogs need to be prepared for their new family member's arrival. There are many things you can do to make the transition enjoyable for all involved and that will minimize any stress associated with being in a new environment for the new dog and dealing with any jealousy from any dogs already in the home.

For starters, be sure to puppy proof your home if you have a young dog coming, but this should be done even if the dog you're bringing home is older. It will take them a little while to learn the rules of their new home and doggie proofing it will help the, learn much faster what is acceptable and what isn't.

Things such as using baby gates to block off areas they're not allowed in, removing books and magazines off low tables and shelves and making sure shoes and any expensive furniture or personal belongings are covered or removed from where the dog will spend most of its time are all things that can make coming home much less stressful.

Know ahead of time what the rules of the house are for your dog. Where will they be able to go? What will they be able to do in their new home? Are they allowed to be on all furniture or just ‚¬"their‚¬ couch or chair? Go over the rules with all family members, deciding who is responsible for feeding, walking and watering the dog. Also decide who is going to be the primary coach for your new family member and make sure that everyone knows the rules and provides consistency for the new pet.

Your current furry friends need to be prepared for the arrival of a new family member as well. It's not advisable to just spring it on them. Some great ways to get your current dogs used to other dogs being around is by dog sitting for other dogs in your home, fostering for dogs that need it and so on. This gives your dog or dogs the chance to see other unfamiliar dogs with their owners and in their homes. It's great practice.

Have a routine in place for your new dog. When are walking times? Play times? Feeding Time and bedtime? When you first bring your pet home, if at all possible take a few days off or schedule it on a long weekend so the new pet has a chance to get used to things without having to be caged or alone right off the bat. Coming to a new home and then instantly being alone can be scary for even the most well adjusted dog, so be sure to be considerate to their needs and make the adjustment as easy and happy as possible.

Make sure you have all of your dog's supplies home and ready to use before the dog comes home. The dog's crate if you're going to be using one, toys, food, dishes, leash and collar, chew toys, treats, brushes, their tags, and anything you need to assist with potty training if it's a puppy. Having all the supplies in place will help getting them, into a good routine much easier.

Transition them onto their new routine and food easily and without stress. Be very patient and loving with your dog, they are in a totally new environment with new food and new people. They need love, consistency, kindness and patience and you will find that they are grateful beyond belief and very eager to make you happy.

Bringing home your new pet can be exciting and it's tempting to want to show the, off to everyone but squash this urge until your new dog is used to their new surroundings and family. Others will have plenty of opportunity to meet them after they have settled it and it's much better for the dog to wait.