How to Make Your Dog Feel Comfortable Inside

If you’ve adopted a rescue dog, you’re probably excited to welcome them into your home and start your new life together. But before you jump into all the fun, it’s important to make sure your house is a safe, comfortable space for your new dog. After all, dogs are family, and they want to be where their people are — here’s everything you need to know to make your dog feel secure inside their house.

Creating a dog-friendly home means setting up cozy spots in each room, stocking up on essentials such as food, toys, and a leash, and making sure they feel safe and welcome. You’ll also want to establish house rules, introduce training commands, and help both your human and four-legged family members adjust.

What you need

Adopting a dog is just the beginning. Before your new dog enters your front door, it’s important to go over your checklist of supplies. Here’s what you’ll need to be fully prepared for their arrival.

• Collar

• Leash

• ID tag

• Food and water bowls

• Crate

• A few dog toys

• Food and treats

• Chews

• Dog bed

• Blankets

Helping a dog adjust to life inside their home

Routine is one of the most important ways to make a dog feel safe and secure. When they know what to expect, it creates a comforting rhythm to their day, provides them with a sense of predictability, helps build trust, and reduces anxiety.

Training is key

Use training methods that promote positive reinforcement, such as clicker training, to make learning a happy experience for both you and your dog. Establish a consistent routine, incorporating short, fun sessions to keep things engaging. And finally, clearly outline your training goals. Whether it's mastering basic commands, addressing specific behaviors, or fostering a deeper bond, having a shared training vision ensures everyone is on the same page.

Consider your furniture

Invest in durable, pet-friendly furniture covers or blankets to make your sofas and chairs more comfortable for your pup. If you don’t want your pet jumping onto your furniture, use positive reinforcement to redirect their behavior. For safety purposes, it’s advisable to secure taller furniture, such as dressers, to the wall to prevent any accidental tipping during lively moments of exploration.

Provide comfortable beds

Consider investing in durable, pet-friendly furniture covers or blankets to make your sofas and chairs more comfortable for your pup. If you don’t want your pet jumping onto your furniture, use positive reinforcement to redirect their behavior. For safety purposes, it’s advisable to secure taller furniture, such as dressers, to the wall to prevent any accidental tipping during lively moments of exploration.

Check your floors

When bringing home a rescue dog, don’t overlook your floors — they impact comfort and safety. Add rugs or non-slip mats to prevent slips, secure stair carpets, and keep floors free of clutter or hazards. Use gates to block off paw-print-free zones while your dog settles in. Sweep and vacuum to keep the floors clear of debris and small, sharp objects that could be harmful to curious pups.

Create a safe space

Creating a cozy and safe haven for your new rescue dog. Start with a comfy crate, lined with soft blankets to provide a snug retreat. Make sure there's a water bowl within paw's reach and a few quiet and safe toys to keep them entertained. Lastly, ensure the space is at a comfortable temperature, especially during extreme weather. This retreat should be a place where they can feel safe, secure and in control.

Get a routine

Welcoming a new rescue dog into your home is an experience that involves everyone in the family — including other pets. To ensure a smooth transition, it's helpful to plan out pet-related chores together so everyone is involved in caring for your new rescue dog.

Set up a potty area

When it comes to doing their business, potty area management can go a long way in helping them stay consistent. Begin by choosing a specific spot in your yard, preferably away from high-traffic areas. Introduce your pup to this space during bathroom breaks, using positive reinforcement when they go potty there. Regularly clean the area to maintain a fresh environment, encouraging your pup to return when it's time to go next. Remember, consistency is key.

Be patient and consistent

Adopting a dog from a rescue is one of the most rewarding things you can do, but signing those adoption papers is just the first step. From the moment they walk through your door, it's important to be patient with them as they navigate their new life in your home. Keep your routines and expectations consistent, providing a stable environment where they can gradually build trust and feel secure.

Just like humans, dogs need time to adjust and form bonds. So, celebrate small victories, from mastering a new command to moments of genuine connection. By being patient and consistent, you'll see your rescue dog transform into your BFF.

Dog-proof your home

Aside from preparing your floors and furniture for your new family member, there are other areas of your home that should be dog-proofed.

• Keep potentially toxic items such as certain foods, medications, and cleaning supplies safely stored.

• Invest in sturdy trash cans with secure lids to prevent any impromptu scavenger hunts.

• Keep doors and windows closed and locked to prevent escapes.

• Use gates and barriers to block off any unsafe areas of the home.

Once you've done that, take a walk through your home from a dog’s-eye view, looking out for tempting cords, small objects that might be mistaken for toys, or anything else that could turn into an unintentional chew toy.

Commonly asked questions

Are there additional tips to consider when adopting a rescue dog?

When it comes to dog adoption, the first thing you should do is choose a rescue dog that fits with your lifestyle and needs. Age, size, behavior, temperament, and underlying health conditions all play a role in this decision. And consider enrolling in basic obedience training classes to strengthen the bond between you and your new dog.

Do dogs have a favorite room?

Yep — Most dogs tend to have a favorite room, though it may change depending on comfort, where their people are, and whether the room is busy or quiet at the moment. While dogs love a quiet and cozy nap space, such as a bedroom, they’ll stick around where their people are so they can keep an eye on everything and be close by.

How long does it take a rescue dog to adjust to their new home?

The adjustment period for a rescue dog varies based on individual factors such as their background, experiences, and temperament, but expect to see big changes over the first three months. Some dogs may settle in quickly, while others might take a few weeks or even months to feel completely at ease. Be patient and understand that your rescue is adapting to a new environment, routine, and family.

Can a dog stay in one room all day?

Yes, a dog can stay in one room all day, but — it’s a big but — they still need exercise, mental stimulation, bathroom breaks, and social time. Dogs tend to do better with more space. While many dogs may choose to lounge in one spot (especially while you work from home), they’d much rather move around and take exploration breaks. (And honestly, it’s healthier for both of you.)