If you just adopted a new dog or puppy, congrats! I wanted to write a blog post specific to bringing home a new dog that wasn't picked up right at 8-10 weeks from a breeder's home with a known history, because we chose a different route in integrating a puppy or dog into our home that is a little older and one that may have fears or unknown behavior problems.

Many wonderful rescue groups and shelters promote a fantastic protocol named the "Two Week Shut-Down." In this protocol, they advise new adoptive owners to take a two week break with getting to know their new family member. This means literally that the new dog should NOT leave your property for two weeks and you should not have new guests over to greet the dog. Don't stop reading! This is a very crucial time for your new pet to adapt to you, your family, your home and learn the ropes. There is more than enough going on without taking the dog out to stimulating environments or having new people come into the mix.

What is the plan?