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Adopt-a-Dog Month
Your New Dog's First 30 Days
A new home means a whole new routine. Help your new dog settle in with simple tips for skin and coat care, ear care, healthy movement and everyday wellness.
See the New Dog ChecklistWelcome Home!
Bringing home a new dog is exciting, whether you've adopted a playful puppy, an adult dog or a senior companion. But those first few weeks can also come with plenty of questions.
Your dog's first 30 days aren't about creating a perfect routine. They're about building trust, learning what's normal for your new companion and creating healthy habits you can continue together.
1
Start a Simple Skin & Coat Routine
Grooming is one of the easiest ways to become familiar with your new dog's skin and coat. Regular brushing can help remove loose hair and debris while giving you a chance to look for changes in their skin.
As your dog becomes comfortable with being handled, check for redness, dryness, irritation, unusual bumps or areas they seem particularly sensitive about.
How often should you bathe a new dog?
Bathing needs can vary based on your dog's coat, lifestyle and individual skin needs. When it's time for a bath, choose grooming products made specifically for pets and appropriate for your dog's skin and coat.
New Dog Tip:
Keep early grooming sessions short and positive. Praise, patience
and a favorite treat can help your dog learn that grooming isn't
something to fear.
Build Their Grooming Routine
Keep shampoos, skin care and everyday grooming essentials ready for bath day.
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2
Get Familiar With Their Ears
Ear checks are another easy habit to establish during your dog's first month at home. Getting familiar with what your dog's ears normally look and smell like can make changes easier to notice.
Watch for redness, excessive debris, unusual odor, frequent scratching or repeated head shaking. Some dogs may need more frequent ear care depending on their breed, ear shape, activity level and individual needs.
Cleaning Your Dog's Ears
If routine ear cleaning is appropriate for your dog, use an ear cleaner made specifically for pets and follow the product directions carefully. Avoid inserting cotton swabs or other objects deep into the ear canal.
Know When to Call Your Vet:
Persistent redness, swelling, discharge, strong odor, discomfort
or frequent head shaking should be discussed with your
veterinarian.
Make Ear Care Easier
Find everyday ear cleaning and care products for your dog's routine.
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3
Support Healthy Joints & Movement
Your new dog has a whole new world to explore, but they don't need to experience everything on day one.
Gradually introduce walks, playtime and other activities that are appropriate for their age, size, health and energy level. Daily movement can provide physical exercise while also giving your dog valuable mental stimulation.
Learn What's Normal for Your Dog
Pay attention to how your dog moves during those first few weeks. Notice how easily they stand up, walk, use stairs, play and settle down after activity. Learning their normal movement can make it easier to recognize changes later.
Remember:
Puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs can have very different
activity needs. Your veterinarian can help you determine an
appropriate exercise and mobility plan for your pet.
Support Their Everyday Movement
Explore joint and mobility products for dogs at every stage of life.
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4
Build an Everyday Wellness Routine
Consistency can help your new dog become more comfortable in their new environment. Start creating predictable routines for meals, bathroom breaks, walks, playtime and bedtime.
These everyday habits may seem small, but together they create the foundation of your dog's long-term care.
Your New Dog Checklist
- Fresh water available throughout the day
- A complete and balanced diet appropriate for your dog
- Regular bathroom breaks and a consistent schedule
- Daily exercise and enrichment
- Routine skin, coat, ear, nail and paw checks
- Regular dental care
- A comfortable, quiet place to rest
- Flea, tick and heartworm prevention as recommended by your veterinarian
- Routine veterinary care
- Plenty of patience while your dog adjusts
Stock Up on Everyday Essentials
From dental care to supplements and everyday pet supplies, make their new routine a little easier.
Shop Dog WellnessSchedule Your New Dog's Vet Visit
If your newly adopted dog hasn't already had a recent veterinary exam, schedule a visit and bring any medical, vaccination or adoption records you received.
Your veterinarian can review your dog's individual needs and help you create a plan for vaccinations, nutrition, dental care, parasite prevention and other ongoing care.
It's also the perfect time to bring along all those new dog questions you've been collecting.
5
Most Importantly, Give Them Time
Every dog adjusts to a new home differently. Some dogs may begin exploring immediately, while others need more time before they feel comfortable enough to show their full personality.
New people, sounds, smells, schedules and expectations can be a lot to process. Keep new experiences manageable, provide a comfortable place to rest and allow your dog to learn their new routine at their own pace.
The goal of those first 30 days isn't perfection. It's building trust and creating a healthy routine together.
New Dog FAQs
How long does it take a newly adopted dog to adjust?
Every dog is different. Some become comfortable quickly while others may need several weeks or longer to adjust to their new surroundings, people and routine.
What should I buy for a newly adopted dog?
Start with the essentials: appropriate food, food and water bowls, a collar or harness, leash, identification, a comfortable sleeping area, grooming supplies, dental care products and veterinarian-recommended preventive care.
Should I bathe my dog right after adoption?
It depends on your dog's individual needs and circumstances. If a bath is needed, use a pet-specific shampoo and keep the experience calm and positive. Ask your veterinarian if your dog has known skin concerns or recent medical procedures.
When should a newly adopted dog see a veterinarian?
If your dog hasn't had a recent veterinary examination, contact your veterinarian after adoption to determine when they should be seen based on their health history, age and individual needs.
Start Their New Routine Off Right
A new home means new routines, new adventures and plenty of care along the way. Find the everyday dog wellness essentials you need to help support your newest family member.
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This information is intended for general educational purposes and is
not a substitute for veterinary advice. Contact your veterinarian with
questions about your pet's individual health or care needs.
