EXPERT PRE-ARRIVAL CONSULTATIONS
Peace of Mind Before They Arrive
Go from confusion to complete readiness with expert guidance tailored to your home and lifestyle; I'll ensure that your space, routine, and mindset are perfectly prepared before you welcome your new furry family member!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "We were very happy with Toby’s service- we have never owned a dog before and he put at at ease, going above and beyond what we expected for our pre-puppy consultation." — Benji's Mum
WHY START WORKING WITH A TRAINER BEFORE YOUR DOG IS HOME?
Get Set Up for Success
Bringing a new dog home is exciting, but there's so much to decide, plan for, and remember that it can be overwhelming at times. Why not get an expert in to help you with your questions, concerns, and get you started on the right foot!
Puppy Parenthood
Worried about how to deal with the endless chewing and biting, where to start with toilet training, or even what food, toys, and equipment to buy for your puppy?
Adopting a Rescue
Concerned about how to build a strong foundation for a new dog from a potentially difficult background, or looking to make sure that you can navigate any challenges smoothly?
Overseas Arrivals
Not sure how to begin managing intense travel stress, long-haul decompression, and bridging the communication gap with a dog from an entirely different world?
THE PROCESS
Your Roadmap To Calm
Knowing exactly what to do before your new dog arrives transforms anxiety into excitement. My structured, supprotive process gets you fully prepared with a pre-arrival session where we'll tackle topics like those listed below, and post-arrival session to help make any adjustments, troubleshoot initial issues, or to get started with some early stages training!
Example topics
- Safe Space & Crate Setup
- First Night and First Walk
- Essential Gear & Supplies
- Decompression and Rest
- Your Questions Answered
01 - Initial Booking
Book Your Pre-Arrival Session
Select a time that works for you. You'll answer a few quick questions about your home environment and your incoming dog so that I can tailor the session specifically to your needs.
02 - First Session (Pre-Arrival)
Your 40-Minute Consultation
I'll come to you, and over the course of our session we'll cover all of your questions and concerns. I'll walk you through my advice and resources for your dog's arrival, ensuring that I leave you with everything you need to get started!
03 - Detailed Writeup
Receive Your Roadmap
Within 24 hours, you'll receive a detailed writeup of our discussion, including all of the resources, recommendations, and links that you need to take the next steps confidently. Following our session, I will remain available for support via WhatsApp, so you needn't worry that you'll be left to fend for yourself!
04 - Second Session (Post-Arrival)
Your 60-Minute Session
We'll schedule in your second session for a time after your dog has arrived home - ideally this will be at least a week after their arrival to give them some time to settle in a bit (this also gives you a chance to figure out anything that you might want specific help with and to gather some new questions for me!). We'll have 60 minutes together to get stuck in with troubleshooting advice and new foundations for training.
THE CURRICULUM
What Will We Cover?
Environment & Safe Space Setup
Discover how to prepare your home without sacrificing your living space. We cover practical adjustments that set boundaries early and prevent accidents before they happen.
Identifying hazards and hidden household dangers
Creating a calming den area
Optimal placement for crates, pads, and beds
First-Night Routines & Sleep
The first 48 hours dictate the foundation for your dog's adjustment. We'll map out a clear plan so you and your new companion can actually get some sleep.
- Establishing a predictable and soothing bedtime routine
- Navigating night-time crying and toileting breaks
- Transitioning smoothly to a consistent feeding schedule
Decompression Protocols
Essential strategies designed specifically for rescues and older dogs to help them feel safe and secure without overwhelming their senses.
- The 3-3-3 rule for rescue dog transitions explained
- Reading subtle body language and early stress signals
- Building a bond and establishing trust at their pace
From Panic To Peace
Ready For A Smooth Arrival?
YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS HERE
Preparation is the best gift you can give your new dog. Book your session today to build a solid foundation before they even step through the door. A calm home starts with a confident owner.
Secure Your Spot
Take the first step toward a calm transition. Choose a session time that works for you.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Rated 5.0 by Owners
Easy Rescheduling
STILL UNSURE?
Common Questions
Bringing a new dog home is a huge transition, and it is completely normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. If you still have questions about how my pre-arrival package works, why not book in your free 10-minute Discovery Call to chat with me directly!
Is it too early to book?
Not at all. In fact, booking before you even start looking for a dog is ideal. I can help you understand what breed or type of rescue will best fit your lifestyle and home environment, plus what to look for in a breeder or a rescue charity to ensure you're getting a happy, healthy dog.
What if I don't have the dog yet?
You're who these sessions are built for! Our 40-minute session will guide you through the process of setting up your home, choosing the right supplies, and preparing yourself mentally before your new companion arrives. After all, prevention of issues is always better than a cure!
Do you cover rescue dogs or just puppies?
These sessions cover both. Whether you are bringing home a puppy from a breeder or an older rescue dog from the UK or overseas, I will tailor my advice and resources to their specific needs, history, and background.
How long does the pre-arrival session take?
These sessions typically run for 40 minutes. This gives us plenty of time to review your home setup, discuss immediate routines, and answer any immediate questions you might have.
Can my family members join the session?
Absolutely. Preparing for a new dog is a household effort. I definitely encourage everyone who will be living with the dog to attend so you are all on the same page from day one!
Building calm and connection — one step at a time. A supportive space for kind, science-based dog training that fits real life.
Based in Croydon
© Toby Duncan Dogs 2026