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Your Rescue Dogs First Day Home

Take It Slow!

We work closely with many owners of rescue dogs, and while some settle in easily, many face significant challenges. Understanding a dog’s experience through a human lens can be helpful in appreciating what they may be going through. Yes, admittedly a bit of anthropomorphism can be a good thing, as long as it doesn’t involve ridiculous notions like your dog needing a Gucci collar (but if that’s the case, we may have a different conversation!).

To illustrate the emotional upheaval many rescue dogs experience, consider the children evacuated during World War II. Many young Londoners were sent to the countryside to live with strangers, far from their families and familiar surroundings. This sudden change caused emotional distress for many, and some suffered lasting damage due to the disruption. The experience of being re-homed can feel similarly overwhelming for a dog. And remember, many rescue dogs have experienced multiple re-homing situations before arriving at their “forever home.” It’s safe to say that a dog in this situation is often insecure, anxious, and frightened—sometimes even frustrated or angry.

From the perspective of a well-meaning owner, the impulse is often to “do all the right things” immediately. This can include long walks, meeting family and friends, socializing with other dogs, and signing up for training classes—all in the first few days! After all, dogs are social, and they love walks, right? Not always. What a rescue dog often needs more than anything is time to adjust, figure out where they are, and determine who they can trust. This recovery process requires patience. Rest is crucial. If a stressed dog is bombarded with too much stimulation too soon, it can lead to a crisis. The key is to take things slowly and give them the space to adjust at their own pace. Learning to read canine body language in detail will help you assess how your dog is coping.

Speaking with many owners whose dog’s behavior worsened a week or two after adoption. More often than not, this happens because the dog has become overstressed due to well-meaning but overwhelming activities or situations.

Some helpful advice: Before rushing into walks or social events, allow your new dog to settle into your home for several days. During this time, avoid visitors and keep activities to a minimum. Create a “den” or safe space where your dog can retreat and rest without interruptions. Encourage him to use this space by scattering food or placing activity toys like a Kong or treat ball to engage his interest. While it’s important to bond with your rescue dog, avoid fostering an excessively dependent relationship. Allow short periods where he can be left alone in his safe area (with you nearby), gradually building his confidence to be independent. Consider using an Adaptil diffuser (which releases comforting pheromones) in his area, and try playing soothing classical music, which can have a calming effect on many dogs.

Only once your dog seems relaxed and settled should you consider going for a walk. If you’re unsure of his past experiences, assume he’s unfamiliar with the outdoors and introduce him gently. Start with quiet, low-stress areas, away from heavy traffic or crowds. Gradually, as your dog builds confidence, you can introduce him to more stimulating environments. Keep walks short, relaxed, and enjoyable so they don’t overwhelm him.

By taking this gradual approach, your dog will start to feel safe and secure, gradually learning to trust you and gain confidence in his new world. For some dogs, this process can take months, so don’t rush it. If you feel uncertain, it’s always a good idea to consult a qualified dog behaviorist who can help you create a structured plan to support your rescue dog’s adjustment.