I would like to understand the history of the dog: how long have you had them, where did you get them from? What is the dog's "routine"? I like to evaluate the personality of the dog, every dog is different and I like to learn what they like and don't like, where will I have some difficulty in their care. For example, if they are not good with taking medication and they require daily medication I would like to try different methods to see what works best. Are they TV watchers? I have had some that are and they react (positively) to Animal Planet so have had to leave the TV on while they are alone so they stay stimulated and happy.

I have experience with shy and fearful dogs, so many activities I do with those dogs are in and around the home to build trust such as leashing them and just having them sit in the front yard for a short period of time, leashed, watching the happenings of the neighborhood. Or I would do a leashed technique inside the home if they need to work on getting used to a leash. A lot of quiet time is used. Much depends on the needs of the dog and their personality. Active dogs I would like to take for a jog or the dog park. Moderately Active dogs I like walking around the neighborhood. I do enjoy taking dogs out to nearby trails and parks to help them explore new surroundings and smells.