How Long Does It Take a Great Dane to Get Used to a New Home?

The amount of time it takes a Great Dane to get used to a new home can vary, but it’s generally around one to three months at most. Of course, you have to consider that all dogs are different, as well as the age of the dog when they come to you. Some dogs will adjust quickly in just a few days, while others will take longer. You can make the adjustment process faster and smoother for your new dog, though.

Give Your New Great Dane Her Own Space

You’ll want to make sure that they have a place of their own, like a nice big dog bed to use. This should be in a location where they’ll feel comfortable. In some cases, it might be in the living room near the family. With other dogs, it might be in a separate room where they can spend some time without being bothered.

In addition to providing your new dog space where they can relax, you may want to see if the previous owner or shelter can provide some favorite toys, blankets, bowls, etc. Even though you might want to go out and buy brand new items, having a few familiar items might help them adjust to their new home. Eventually, you’ll be able to replace them, of course.

When they first come home, you’ll want to keep things normal around the house, too. This means you shouldn’t bring over a bunch of people to look at and play with your new dog. Give them the time they need to get used to you and your family first, and then you can introduce others.

Start a Routine

Dogs are similar to children in the fact that they thrive on routine. Start a routine with your dog as soon as they arrive. Give them walks and feed them at about the same time each day. If you can follow a similar routine to their previous owner, they might adjust to your home faster. If not, it’s okay. You can put them onto a routine that works for you and your family, and they’ll slowly adjust to it.

Make Your Great Dane Feel Included

Although you want to provide them with some space, you also need to make sure they feel included with the things you do. Spend plenty of time playing with them, petting them, telling them they’re a good girl, and making them feel loved and part of the family. This will often help dogs to feel more comfortable, so they can settle into a new home.

Be Patient with Your New Dog 

Your new Great Dane is a wonderful addition to your family, but it can take time for them to adjust. Keep in mind that younger dogs will often adjust faster than older dogs will. If they’ve been with a different family their entire life, it’ll feel strange for them to be in a new home with new people. It’s important that you’re patient and let them settle in at their own pace. Before long, it’ll be like they’ve always been a part of your family.