Bringing home a new dog is an exciting time for your family. There is so much joy that can be found when you add a member to the family, and the love and loyalty of a dog is something that can’t be replaced. That being said, bringing a new dog into the house is going to be an adjustment for everyone, especially your new furry friend.

Not only do you want to take measures to prepare your house and the members of your family for the new arrival, but there are also a few health conditions that tend to be common in newly adopted dogs. This is particularly true for pups that have been adopted from a shelter.

If you are about to bring a new dog home, here are a few of the more common conditions to be on the lookout for during the first few weeks that your dog is home.

1) Anxiety

Your home is an entirely new environment for your dog. Dogs are incredibly sensitive to their surroundings, so you must become aware of any symptoms of anxiety that your dog exhibits as a reaction to their new setting. Some dogs can become aggressive if they are too anxious or nervous, so take some precautions to create a calm environment for your new pet.

Upon arrival, make sure that the house is quiet, and everyone is as relaxed as they can be. Take your dog on a leashed tour of your home and yard so that they don’t become overstimulated by all the smells and sounds around them. Particularly nervous dogs can be given a calming treat like tasty hemp cheese wraps to help them feel more relaxed. Remember that the calmer you are then, the calmer they will be.

2) Kennel Cough

Canine infectious tracheobronchitis, the condition commonly referred to as kennel cough, is a common infection that dogs contract when they are surrounded by other dogs. If you have adopted your dog from a shelter, this is definitely one that you will want to watch out for.

While this infection isn’t particularly dangerous, it is very contagious. If you notice any of the symptoms, then you will want to keep your pup away from other dogs for a while. Kennel cough is characterized by a deep, loud cough accompanied by a gagging sound. Always consult a vet if you notice these symptoms as they are also common in more deadly diseases and infections. Your dog will most likely need a couple of weeks of rest, and then all will be well.

3) Heartworms

Another condition that is easily transmitted between dogs sharing close quarters is heartworms. As soon as you officially adopt your dog, you need to place him or her on regular heartworm preventative medication. This is because often, the symptoms of a heartworm infection go unnoticed. While a mild cough and fatigue can present themselves, you would more likely not realize that your dog has this often fatal condition for quite some time.