Acclimating your Dog to his New Bed

All dog owners agree that a dog has a personality, and therefore sometimes your dog is unpredictable. Sometimes your dog's emotions do not mimic your own. So when you purchase a gorgeous new dog bed, exultantly pull it out of the box, set it up under the window, stand back to watch your dog leap with joy into his new comfort zone, and all he does is dare you with his eyes to throw the tennis ball again, does this mean he is bored with your gift? Does it mean that he would still prefer sleeping on the new couch? Worst of all, does it mean that he doesn't LIKE this new bed?

We say, "Probably not." Your dog needs to learn that this new cushion of comfort is for his own use and dominion. However when it first comes out of the box, it is new, smells strange, and is potentially off-limits like your chewable pumps and snuggly cashmere sweaters.

These tips will help you acclimate your dog into loving his new bed:
1. Encourage him to explore the bed. Sit by the bed and lead him onto it. Spend some time with him there as he examines the bed and realizes that you WANT him there.
2. Let it be natural for him to spend time in the bed.  Put the bed right in his favorite room or right by the heater in the winter. If the bed is where he wants to be anyway, it is more natural for him to start using it.
3. Entice him into loving the bed. When they aren't in use, leave the dog toys or bones on the bed. When your dog enters the room, he will know right where to find his favorite things. The bed will quickly become his go-to space.
4.  Make the bed smell like home. A strange smell can make a big difference for your dog. If your bed has a washable cover, wash it with your family's normal detergent. If your bed cannot be washed, drape your dog's favorite blanket or crate pad over the bed for a week.

This list will help you send the right message to your dog as he learns to trust and enjoy his new bed. Try them out before you despair of your new purchase. Soon the bed will be his home within his home.

Please note however, we make no promises with cats!