Congratulations, new dog owner! Whether you've just made the decision to get a new dog or you've already welcomed a new furbaby into your home, we've got the scoop on how to be the best dog parent your pup could want. Follow these ten tips to help your new dog feel welcome and secure in his new home.

Before He Arrives

Being a good dog parent begins before your four-legged companion sets foot in your home. These preparations will help ensure he has a smooth transition on adoption day.

1. Prepare Your Home

Dog-proof your home by going through the house and viewing everything at dog or puppy-eye level. Is there anything that might pose a choking hazard? Is there an item you don't want to get chewed? If so, be sure to move it out of reach. Use pet gates to block off anything that might hurt or ensnare your dog, or to cordon off parts of the house where he won't be allowed to roam. Designate a safe space for your dog to hide if he starts to feel overwhelmed. This might be a dog crate, a room, or an area off the kitchen blocked off with a pet gate.

2. Talk Roles and Responsibilities of the Family

If you'll share the responsibility for your dog's care, establish ahead of time who will be in charge of feeding, walking, bathing, etc. If you have children, talk with them about the new family member coming into the home, and establish rules about how he's to be treated. Young children especially may need to be taught how to be gentle with a dog and also closely supervised during play.

3. Get Your Other Pets Ready

If you have dogs or cats already, all of their shots should be up-to-date. Provide cats with a safe place to escape from unwanted attention from the new guy, and prepare a way to keep other dogs separate until they all get to know each other. If possible, let your current pets become familiar with the new dog's scent ahead of time. Provide an item their soon-to-be brother slept on or played with for them to sniff.

4. Gather Necessary Supplies

Dogs need more than just your love and affection to keep them happy and healthy. Make sure to stock up on all the right dog supplies including food and water dishes, a leash, dog toys, dog bed, and grooming supplies. If you plan to crate train him, have the crate ready on his first night home. The Humane Society of the United States cautions that you should choose a crate that doesn't have any wire that would snag a collar or paws. It must also have plenty of room inside to stand, turn around and sit comfortably. Also, be sure to add in a blanket for him to cuddle up with, as well as a toy to keep him entertained when you're not around.

5. Purchase Food with Balanced Nutrition

Although you'll want to ensure he's getting nutritious dog food, it's best not to change your dog's food right away, as this could lead to an upset stomach and anxiety. If possible, obtain a week's worth of his current food from the shelter or breeder, and gradually change him over to the new food, adding a little more each day over about a week.