Using quarantine to help a foster a dog? Howell, MI

/ Einstein Dog Training/

We are so happy to see all these shelter dogs finding foster homes during this incredibly difficult time. We can think of nothing better than opening your home to a dog in need and enjoying the company that only a dog can provide!

We work with hundreds of rescue dogs a year doing behavior modification and  building control around distractions.  We absolutely love these dogs and want give them the best chance at success. That’s why we wanted to share some tips for your new foster dog to have a positive experience all the way around. Whether you end up falling in love and keeping them, or you’re preparing them for their forever home.

The most important thing to keep in mind is structure!

  • Crate training is the best way to ensure that they stay on a schedule for when you go back to work. This also helps to avoid separation anxiety for when that time comes. Also gives them structure so they’re not getting into mischief. Plus, it’s a safe place to hang out. 

  • Chances are this dog has lived in the shelter environment, or is coming from a background with minimal structure or training. Therefore, keeping them on a leash in the house with you will prevent them from exploring undesirable behaviors, like destructive chewing or improper elimination in the house, will make your experience together more pleasant. 

  • Sitting at doorway is when entering or exiting the home. The walk starts before you even clip the leash on! Calm and focus for the win!

  • Sitting and waiting for meals. Wait for the dog to look at you, and not the food. 

  • We typically advised to not allow furniture for the first few weeks but we understand during this stressful time the need for snuggling and comfort. I would highly encourage you to have them sit and wait to be invited up on furniture. 

  • If you have existing dogs in your household, please make sure to crate and rotate initially so the dogs can become comfortable with one another. Always monitor interactions and keep excitement level to a minimum. It’s all fun and games until someone gets hurt! Also make sure you are doing things separately with your dog and your foster dog, so your dog doesn't develop “older sibling syndrome”. 

The next thing to keep in mind is exercise! We know we’re all seeing Memes about how much people are walking their dogs. Walking is a fantastic physical exercise, but we want to take a moment to discuss the importance of mental stimulation. Here are some things you can do to engage your foster dog mentally while in quarantine: 

  • Hunting for kibble around the house 

  • Freezing meals in a Kong to enjoy in their crate 

  • Flirt pole (easy to make but also sold in pet stores or online) 

  • Trick training (shake, roll over, sit pretty) 

  • Having them place on different objects 

  • Playing hide and seek (one person holds leash while the other hides and calls dog)

Remember, a tired dog is a good dog!

Please share this post far and wide so we help make this fostering experience the best for human and dog! And share a picture of your foster dog with us!

If you need help training your foster dog (or your established dog!), we can help. Call us at 248-733-3776 or email us at info@einsteindogtraining.com. We’re still working fulls schedules during this time, utilizing technology to help you via Skype (or FaceTime). Schedule your consult today!