Rescue dog

[Justwingingit2005]

Weve been approved for a rescue dog. A UK based dog.
It's a reputable dog rehomer.

Any advice on what to do or buy to bring her home?
How do we help her settle?
New to all of this.

She will need a quiet safe space.
Don't overwhelm with too many toys and games all at once.
Try to keep the home calm for the first few days as she settles in.

if you’re on FB look at the group dog training advice and support. It’s brilliant.

I’ve always had rescue dogs. Some have walked in and settled immediately, some have been nervous. Show them their bed, their water and food. Have a few toys of different types - rope toy, chewable strong toy, squeaky toy and a ball - see what they like. Then let them explore a bit. Be kind to them, stroke them and talk to them when they come to you, but don’t fuss too much. Do some walks and let them have a sniff around. Give them time. Let them settle but have a routine and boundaries too. I hope it goes well.

It takes time with a rescue. The rule of three can be useful!

Treat the dog like a dog.

Do not cuddle it. Do not approach it randomly. Let it approach you. Pay attention to warning signs it’s not happy (licking lips, freezing etc). Don’t let children pester it. Let it sleep away from you (do not have it on the sofa from day one). Give it a safe space.

What breed?

Adaptil collar and diffuser can be helpful. Or Nutracalm herbals from the vets ( non prescription but meant for dogs)

Agree with PPs - give the dog space, let them come to you.
Ensure they know where to toilet and take them out on a frequent basis while they acclimatise.

Also no visitors for first few days or at least none who just want to meet the dog.

It's a daschund.

Make sure you have the best insurance you can afford, they're very prone to back and spine issues unfortunately.

Remember what they're bred for - hunting badgers. They're not cute little lap dogs - they're intelligent and smart and need plenty of exercise and stimulation.

Dogs from rescue can appear really placid at first when in reality they're terrified and shut down. Don't be tempted to pick her up and give her too much fuss - let her settle and approach you when she's ready.

Good luck

Excellent advice.

Remember; little dogs are still dogs. You wouldn’t pick up a Caucasian Shepherd and cuddle it. You wouldn’t approach a sleeping GSD. Don’t do it to daschund.

Space and time.

I have a rescue. He’s the best. And well done for rescuing.