Meghan Markle and Prince Harry have their hearts set on giving Archie Harrison Mountbatten-Windsor his own four-legged companion. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex plan to find the new family pet at an animal rescue shelter near to their Windsor home, The Sun reports. A royal source told the publication: “Meghan really wants a dog with whom Archie can associate his childhood. “She hopes they strike up an incredible bond and Archie can make plenty of memories.”

Meghan has raised two rescue dogs already – her beloved pooches Guy and Bogart.

Unfortunately, Bogart had to stay behind when she crossed the Atlantic to start her new life with Prince Harry.

The royal couple added a black labrador to their family earlier this year – initial reports said he was called Oz but this was later denied by Meghan.

Despite having extensive experience of dog handling, Meghan and Harry are likely to find juggling a new puppy with a young baby a bit of a handful.

But smart planning and creating a relaxed environment will ensure their latest furry addition settles in fast.

READ MORE: ROYAL GIFT: MEGHAN MARKLE DESPERATE TO GIVE ARCHIE PRESENT SO HE CAN MAKE ‘MEMORIES’

Richard Setterwell, of dog-walking and pet-sitting service Rover.com, said there are three easy ways to help an adopted pooch feel right at home.

His three top tips for Meghan and Harry are:

– Create a safe space

Mr Setterwell said: “One of the best things you can do is to create a safe space for your dog.

“Remember that adjusting to a new home can be scary, so comfort is key to helping them relax.

“Purchase a comfortable dog bed and make it snug with blankets and cushions so they can curl up and rest whenever they please.

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– Introduce them to family members slowly – and that includes other dogs

He said: “As excited as the whole family will inevitably be to meet their new furry friend, for a dog this can be quite overwhelming.

“If you can, try introducing family members and any other dogs one at a time.

“Be careful with your approach – avoid going over the top with hugging or kissing them in the early days of developing a bond.”

“Keep in mind when introducing other dogs that they can become quite territorial, so keep it short and friendly and be wary to keep all pets on a lead for their first interaction.”

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– Explore new surroundings together

Mr Setterwell said: “A nice way of easing them in is by exploring the house together.

“Walk around slowly, allowing them to move around and sniff out their new surroundings.

“You can start by showing them their food, bed and toys before moving on to what is off-limits in the house.

“It’s also a good idea to keep your dog on a lead when showing them the garden for the first time, as they won’t be used to this yet.”

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