Bringing a new dog home is an exciting time, and we all want to start with our dogs on the right foot. And for many of us, that means creating a strong bond with our new best friend.

Like any relationship, it takes time to create a deep bond, but there are ways to strengthen it from day one.

Here are 10 ways to bond with your new dog:

BE PATIENT

Each dog has its own personality, and some dogs take longer than others to get used to new people and surroundings. Like us, when dogs are put into a new situation, there is an adjustment period. So before I get into some of the fun and exciting ways to bond with your new dog, I want to emphasize the importance of being patient. Not all dogs connect immediately with a new owner - don't take it personally. They are in a new environment, getting used to new sights, smells and sounds. It can be a stressful time for your new dog, and you can help comfort him by keeping things calm and positive during those first few days.I know it's tempting to go out and do everything with your new dog, but sometimes patience is the key. If your dog seems shy or fearful, take it slow; Give him time to see his new home and family. While it's tempting, don't bother inviting everyone to meet your new dog on the first day if it is showing signs of stress or fear.

KEEP A SCHEDULE

Dogs love to have a routine, so focusing on a set schedule from day one can help your new dog adjust. Routines provide comfort, and they will teach your dog what is expected of them at any time. As dogs thrive on routine, once your new dog finds out how your home works, the more comfortable it will be. You can help your new dog adapt to your home by: Feeding at the same time every day. Consistently take you out to do the needs. Go for your daily walk at the same time. Go to bed every night on time. This also includes exercise time, cuddle time, or any other play or daily activity with which he is involved. I know that many owners want to spend as much time as possible with their new dog, and this is wonderful. But try to incorporate at least some of your normal activities into the day during the first few weeks to help your dog adapt to what will be his normal routine.

BE CONSISTENT WITH THE RULES

When it comes to bonding with your new dog, remember to be consistent and clear. Make sure everyone in the family is on the same page when it comes to training. Ask the family to sit down and make sure that everyone agrees on what behaviors are not good and which ones to reward. The quickest way to confuse and frustrate a dog is to have a different set of rules, depending on who gives the orders. If you don't want your dog in the furniture, make sure that everyone adheres to this rule, and make sure that everyone is rewarding the same behaviors. It is not fair for your dog to be punished for behavior that you disapprove of, but that your husband encourages. You can avoid frustration by ensuring that everyone in the family agrees on what behaviors are acceptable. If you want to create a strong bond with your dog, be clear and consistent, and make sure everyone is on board.

GIVE THEM YOUR OWN SPACE

Imagine yourself in your dog shoes (or paws) for a moment - surrounded by strangers in a new place where everything is unknown. It's a little scary, to say the least. Some dogs may feel overwhelmed with the first two days, and one way to help alleviate some of that fear is to give them their own special place.To make your new dog more comfortable, consider giving him his own comfortable bed, box or safe place where he can retire when he is tired. Some dogs need a place to relax from time to time, especially with the stress of being in a new environment. If your dog retires to his special place, remember not to take it personally and give him some time to decompress - being in a new place can be overwhelming.

ENGAGE YOUR DOG IN PLAY

One of the most fun ways to bond with a new dog is to engage in some interactive game with him. Some dogs will be ready to play the instant they get home, and others may need to be persuaded. If your dog is not willing to play, it may be because he is still overwhelmed with his new environment; let it settle in a bit and try again later.If you want to involve your dog in the game, try a simple chase / search game. Try rolling a toy around on the floor and see if he can feel like chasing it. If he is not yet interested, show him how it is done; chase the toy to show how much fun it is. Participating in play will strengthen the bond you have with your dog, and can also help to reduce problematic behaviors. Studies have found that a lack of play increases the likelihood that dogs will develop behavioral problems, such as complaining, jumping and not coming when they are called.

RELAX TOGETHER

When it comes to bonding with a new dog, it's hard to go wrong by just spending some quality time relaxing together. Invite your dog to the couch with you for some cozy time, or get down on the floor and invite your dog to show off his puppy massage techniques. My dog and I have our own cuddling time on the couch every night. Cuddling is a great way to spend some quality time before bed and by working on your routine, you can teach your dog that at 9 pm (or the time you choose) it's time to settle down.

EXERCISE WITH YOUR DOG

Giving your dog sufficient physical exercise is important to his well-being, and there are many ways to make this a fun connection experience. And it’s good for you too, as fresh air and physical activity can be very stress relievers. One of the best ways to bond with your new dog is to take him for a walk to explore his new neighborhood. Since he is not familiar with the area, be sure to give him some extra time to explore and check out all the new sights and exciting smells. If the weather is bad, don’t worry; there are still many ways to keep your dog active.

MANUAL FEEDING OF YOUR DOG

Manual feeding of your dog consists of simply feeding your dog straight from your hand, and is especially useful for timid or fearful dogs. It is an exercise that will build trust between you and your dog, and it is a good way to start strengthening that bond.If you are not very interested in having your dog eat directly from your hand, you can have your dog sit with you as you give him treats. This closeness still builds trust (and can improve your manners), and helps to teach your dog that you are the provider of good things (which is very useful when it comes to training). Manual feeding is a quick way to build trust and strengthen the bond between you and your new dog. Manual feeding also improves impulse control, helps teach bite inhibition and can slow down fast eaters.Work on some simple tricks Puppies are not too young to learn some basic tricks, and training is a great way to bond with your new dog. Just remember that your attention span is limited, so remember to keep your training sessions short. You will also want to teach your dog to come when you are called, so it is a good idea to start laying the foundation for a reliable call. Not sure where to start with training your new dog? Here are some of the simple tricks you can start with: Sit, Stay, Lay Down, Move. Once your dog knows the basics, you can start working with more challenging tricks. Encourage the behaviors you like. When you bring your new dog home, remember that he doesn't know what the rules are, and he won't be familiar with your preferences. If your dog does something you approve of, make sure he or she knows verbally with praise or affection. If your dog waits patiently while you prepare dinner, let him know that he is a good boy. And if your dog feels good when you put the collar on before you take him, let him know that he is a good boy. By communicating clearly with your dog that he is doing something good, you can encourage him to repeat the desired behaviors later.

BE PATIENT, CONSISTENT AND POSITIVE

Each dog is different, and each of them comes with their own experiences and personalities. Your dog can start settling in and bonding with you in an hour, or it can take months.Give your new dog some time, consistency, a constant schedule and his own space and he will begin to feel confident in his new environment. Stay positive and be patient; your new dog will be your best friend before you know it.You can teach your dog to behave in a way of your choosing. Discover a working routine on how to train your dog to obey.

(Note: the article may contain affiliate links and I may receive a commission if you see the offers.)