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Bringing Home a New Dog? Start Here
30 years of experience, one piece of advice: the right preparation makes all the difference.
A new puppy or dog is one of the most joyful things a household can welcome. They're cute, funny, and full of love, and with the right preparation, they stay that way. The biggest mistake most new owners make isn't in how they care for their dog. It's not thinking through the right match before they bring one home.
Don Henderson has worked with thousands of dogs and their families for over 30 years. His advice is simple: take the time to choose the right dog breed for your life, then set them up to succeed from day one.
How to Choose the Right Dog Breed for Your Household
Every breed is different in temperament, energy level, space requirements, and the kind of owner they thrive with. Before you fall in love with a face at the rescue or a listing from a breeder, ask yourself the right questions:
Does the breed match your lifestyle, property size, and work schedule? Some dogs need significant daily exercise to stay balanced. A high-energy breed in a small apartment with a busy owner is a recipe for behavioural problems down the line. Others are perfectly content with shorter walks and quieter days.
Are you ready for a puppy, or would an adult dog suit you better? Puppies require housebreaking, consistent training, and a lot of time and patience in the early months. An adult dog, especially one that's already trained, can be a great fit for households that want to skip that stage.
Will your new dog get along with other pets already in your home? Breed temperament and early socialisation both play a role here, worth researching before you commit.
Don's advice: do your research on the breeds you're considering. Look into temperament, hereditary traits, and what owners of that breed genuinely experience day to day. Whether you're buying from a breeder or adopting, the more informed you are going in, the better the outcome for everyone, especially the dog.
Before and After They Come Home
Once you've found the right dog, preparation matters. Puppy-proof your home before they arrive: remove toxins, secure electrical hazards, check for poisonous plants in the house and garden, and make sure medications are out of reach. A dog-proofed environment is a safer, calmer one.
When your new dog arrives, take time to bond. Let them settle in, get familiar with their new space, and build trust with you before throwing them into a busy routine. A good diet and a consistent feeding schedule from the start will also go a long way.
From there, the two most important things you can do are socialise and train early. Walk your dog in your community, introduce them to people and other animals, and start professional training as soon as possible. A well-socialised, well-trained dog is a joy to everyone they meet, and that starts in the first weeks at home.
Ready to Get Started?
The Dog Tutor works with new puppies and adult dogs across New York and Connecticut. Whether you need puppy training, basic obedience, or guidance on getting your new dog settled, Don and Mia are here to help.
