12 Things Dog Foster Families Can Do to Help New Dog Owners Be Successful

Fostering dogs is a rewarding experience, and foster families play a crucial role in preparing dogs for their forever homes. Beyond caring for the dogs themselves, foster families can set new owners up for success by providing guidance, insights, and support. Here are 12 things dog foster families can do to help new dog owners build strong, lasting relationships with their new pets.

1. Provide a Detailed History

One of the most important things you can do is provide a detailed history of the dog’s behavior, health, and personality. Share what you’ve learned about the dog’s habits, likes, dislikes, and any specific needs. This gives new owners a head start in understanding their dog’s temperament and helps them plan accordingly.

2. Share Routine and Schedule Information

Dogs thrive on routine, and adjusting to a new home can be stressful without consistency. Share the dog’s feeding, exercise, and sleep schedule with the new owners. By continuing the same routine, new owners can help ease the dog’s transition into their home.

3. Offer Training Tips

If you’ve been working on training with the foster dog, be sure to share any commands they’ve learned, as well as the training techniques that worked best. Whether it's basic obedience, crate training, or housebreaking, giving new owners these tips will help them continue the dog’s progress and prevent backsliding.

4. Highlight the Dog’s Personality

Every dog is unique, and understanding their quirks can make the adoption process smoother. Let new owners know about the dog’s personality traits—whether they’re shy, playful, energetic, or more laid-back. This helps new owners adapt their approach to meet the dog’s needs.

5. Provide a List of Favorite Toys and Activities

Knowing what the dog enjoys can be extremely helpful for new owners. Whether it's a specific toy, game, or type of walk, share the dog’s favorite activities. This allows the new owners to create positive experiences right away, helping to bond with their new pet.

6. Explain Triggers and Sensitivities

If the dog has any fears or sensitivities—such as loud noises, other dogs, or certain environments—make sure the new owners are aware. By understanding potential triggers, new owners can take steps to avoid situations that might cause anxiety or stress for the dog.

7. Encourage Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement training is an excellent way to strengthen the bond between the dog and its new owners. Encourage new owners to use praise, treats, and affection to reward good behavior. This helps build trust and ensures the dog feels secure in their new home.

8. Offer Advice on Crate Training

If the foster dog is crate trained, provide guidance on how the new owners can maintain this routine. Explain how the crate can serve as a safe space and how to gradually extend crate time if needed. If the dog isn’t crate trained, offer tips on how to begin the process effectively.

9. Discuss Socialization Needs

Socialization is key to a well-adjusted dog. Let the new owners know how the dog interacts with other dogs, people, and different environments. Provide tips on how to continue socialization safely, whether that’s through trips to the dog park, meeting new people, or visiting new places.

10. Be Available for Questions

Fostering doesn’t necessarily end when the dog moves to a new home. Offer to be available for any questions or concerns the new owners may have as they adjust to life with their new pet. Your experience with the dog can provide valuable reassurance and advice during this transition.

11. Provide Information on Local Resources

Help new owners get off to a great start by providing them with information on local resources, such as veterinarians, dog trainers, and pet supply stores. If you know of specific professionals who are excellent with dogs, share their contact details.

12. Encourage Patience and Consistency

Adjusting to a new home takes time, both for the dog and the owners. Encourage new owners to be patient and consistent as they help their dog settle in. Remind them that changes can be overwhelming for the dog, but with time, patience, and love, the bond will grow stronger each day.

Conclusion

Fostering dogs is a vital step in preparing them for adoption, and foster families can make a lasting impact on both the dog and the new owners. By providing detailed information, offering training advice, and being available for questions, foster families can help ensure a smooth transition and set new dog owners up for success. Your guidance can make all the difference in helping dogs find their forever homes.