Overview

The first week you and your dog spend together will be exhilarating, but it's also likely to be a bit rocky. A little advance planning can make the initial adjustment period easier on you both.

Set up for a smooth homecoming

1. Have a family pow-wow.
A dog is a big commitment, so before you take the plunge, make sure you're all together on wanting this newest member of the family. Then decide who's going to be the primary caretaker--otherwise you'll spend lots of time arguing while your dog stares at his empty food bowl. To avoid confusing the pup, hammer out the house rules ahead of time, for instance, Will the dog be allowed on the bed? On the couch? Where will the dog sleep? Are any rooms of the house permanently off-limits?.

2. Stock up on the right supplies.
See our list of must-have supplies here.

3. Dog-proof your house.
This requires a little more work if you're getting a puppy, since they can be champion chewers and have a knack for getting into things they shouldn't. But no matter what your dog's age, you'll want to do some dog-proofing, to protect your belongings and prevent tragic (and expensive) accidents.

4. Create a temporary, gated-off living space for your dog.
This space, or playroom, is where she'll stay whenever you can't be with her. Giving her a safe place to play prevents her from wreaking havoc on your belongings, eating something she shouldn't, and helps housetrain her too.

Pick a room that's a center of activity in your household so your dog won't feel isolated. The other requirement: easy-to-clean floors. The kitchen is often a good choice, and you can block it off with baby gates if necessary. Remove anything you don't want chewed on or soiled. Stock it with a crate, water and food bowl, and chewtoys.

5. Arrange for home care.
If you can, take a few days off work to get your new dog or puppy settled in. The extra attention will jump-start your housetraining effort and make it more likely you'll bond quickly.

If you can't take time off you'll need a back up team. Even if you can you'll need to find someone who can walk your dog in the middle of the day.

Dogs, especially young ones, need to relieve themselves throughout the day. But even housebroken adult dogs, highly social animals that they are, appreciate the company of humans and/or other dogs.

In short, if you can't be around, consider hiring someone who can be:

• dog walkers
• dog daycare

6. Find a good school.
Group obedience classes are great for bonding with your new dog and for learning how to communicate with your dog. They're especially recommended for young puppies since they give them a chance to get comfortable around other dogs and people, an experience that's key to raising a safe, friendly dog.

Dog training is unregulated, which means pretty much anyone can call herself a dog trainer. So consider calling your local humane society for recommendations if you're interested.

7. Plan the trip home.
Ask a friend or family member to come along when you pick up your dog. Young puppies who've never been on a car ride before may get rattled, and even adult dogs can get nervous. A terror-filled car ride can turn into a lifelong fear of car travel.

If your dog's used to a crate, use one to bring him home. Otherwise, ask your friend to sit next to him so she can soothe and keep him from hopping into your lap while you're driving.

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