The 3 Days, 3 Weeks, 3 Months
Rule of Adopting a Rescue Dog

 

As you and your dog get to know each other, remember this rule of thumb…

First 3 Days

  • Feeling overwhelmed

  • May be scared and unsure of what is going on

  • Not comfortable enough to be themself

  • May not want to eat or drink

  • Shut down and wants to curl up in their crate or hide under furniture

  • Testing boundaries

3 Weeks

  • Starting to settle in

  • Feeling more comfortable

  • Realizing this could possibly be their home forever

  • Figures out the environment

  • Getting into a routine

  • Lets their guard down and may start showing their true personality

  • Behavior issues may start to arise

3 Months

  • Completely comfortable in the new home

  • Building trust and a true bond

  • Gained a complete sense of security with the new family

  • Set in a routine

 

Some dogs will go through this progression more quickly or slowly, but most go through these stages

For more tips on housetraining, avoiding toxins and other ways to keep your dog safe, check out our Adopter Support page