Bringing home a new dog is an exciting time for the whole family. Whether you are adopting a puppy or welcoming an older rescue, introducing your dog to your household – especially to children – needs to be handled with patience, care, and a clear understanding of what your new dog needs to feel safe and happy.
Here are our top tips to help you create a calm and successful transition when introducing a new dog to your family.
Teach the right behaviour beforehand:
Before your dog even sets paw inside your home, have a family meeting to talk about how to behave around pets. Children in particular need to learn that dogs aren’t toys – they’re living beings that need to be treated gently and respectfully.
Explain to your young ones that they should never pull on a dog’s fur, ears, or tail. Even the most tolerant dog can become stressed or fearful if they are handled roughly. Teaching these basic principles early on helps create a safe environment for both your family and your new companion.
Take it slow with initial introductions:
When the big day arrives, it’s best to keep introductions calm and controlled. Let your dog explore your home at their own pace. Introduce family members one at a time in a quiet, neutral space, and always supervise these early interactions closely.
Importantly, allow your dog to approach the younger members of the family – not the other way around. This gives your pet a sense of control and helps reduce any anxiety they may be feeling. Let them sniff and observe before engaging.
Dogs need boundaries to feel safe—and so do children. Teach your children that there are times when the dog should be left alone, such as when they are eating, sleeping, or showing signs of over-excitement. Interrupting a dog during these times can startle them or cause them to react out of fear or irritation.
By respecting your dog’s space, children will learn to be more empathetic and responsible pet owners.
Use familiar scents to create comfort:
Scent plays a powerful role in helping dogs feel at home. Before bringing your new dog in, consider placing items around them on the journey home that carry your family’s scent – such as worn clothing or blankets. You can also prepare their own bed or crate with these items alongside freshly washed bedding to give them a sense of security and ownership of their space.
Creating an environment that smells like ‘home’ can help ease the transition and lower your dog’s stress levels during those first few days.
Show children how to properly stroke a dog
According to experts at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, it’s important to let the dog approach and sniff a hand before trying to stroke them. Reaching out too soon, especially over the head, can feel threatening to a dog.
If the dog seems calm and relaxed, your child can gently stroke their side or back. Avoid head pats or cuddles – many dogs, especially those not used to children, may find being hugged uncomfortable or scary initially.
After a few seconds, encourage your child to stop and give the dog the chance to walk away or ask for more affection. Teaching these respectful interactions will help build trust over time.
Nip bad habits in the bud:
It’s not unusual for some dogs, particularly herding breeds like collies, to nip at children’s ankles. If a child squeals or runs away, it can inadvertently encourage the dog to chase or repeat the behaviour.
Animal charity Blue Cross advises that such habits should be gently corrected straight away. Redirect your dog’s attention with toys or treats and help them understand what behaviours are acceptable. The sooner you address undesirable actions, the less likely they are to become a long-term issue.
Use treats to build trust:
Introducing treats can be a great way to bond with your dog and reinforce good behaviour. Let your children offer small treats – such as our Milky Petite Bones – when your dog is calm and relaxed. This creates a positive association with the new environment and helps your dog feel more comfortable around the family.
Just remember to keep treat sizes appropriate and always supervise young children when feeding your dog.
Welcoming a new dog into your home is the beginning of a beautiful friendship – but it takes time, understanding, and patience from every member of the family. By preparing your children in advance and creating a calm, respectful environment, you’re setting the stage for a happy, well-adjusted pet and a safe, loving home.
With the right approach – and perhaps a few tasty treats along the way – your new dog will be part of the family in no time.
For more information, including top tips to know before getting a puppy, head to our blog page.
