The holidays are a great time to add to your family-whether it’s a puppy or an older dog. Sometimes breeders have litters due just in time for Christmas and many rescues have adoption fairs to help empty their shelters for the year.
Each dog is an individual and depending on their life experiences (being raised by a breeder, having a former family, living on the streets as a stray, etc.) can influence how they act in your home.
Some dogs may be coming out of a stressful shelter environment and need time to acclimate to a new home. While we want to give our new companion all the cuddles and love it deserves, some dogs need more time to decompress than others. That’s where the 3-3-3 rule comes in; what you can expect in the first 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months after bringing your new dog home.
3-Day Rule:
1. Patience and Adjustment: Give your dog time to settle in. The first few days can be overwhelming as they adapt to a new environment.
2. Establish Routine: Start establishing a daily routine for feeding, walks, and potty breaks. Consistency helps your dog feel secure and helps you predict when they need to potty.
3. Introductions: Introduce family members and other pets gradually and in a controlled manner. Let your dog adjust at his own pace.
4. Quiet Time: Provide a quiet, comfortable space where your dog can retreat to relax and feel safe such as a crate or maybe an X-pen.
5. Limited Exploration: Allow your dog to explore their new environment gradually. Too much space at once can be overwhelming. Start with a small area and gradually expand their access to other parts of the home.
6. Keep it Calm: Avoid having too many visitors or loud noises during the first few days. Your dog needs time to get used to the new sights, sounds, and smells of their new home without additional stressors. This is why I ask people to delay official training of the dog for at least 2 weeks during the “honeymoon period” where everyone is getting used to the new dog and the dog is getting used to the humans in the household.
3-Week Rule:
1. Training Basics: Begin basic training such as sit, stay, and come. Use positive reinforcement techniques to build a bond and encourage good behavior.
2. Socialization: Slowly expose your dog to new experiences, people, and environments. This helps prevent fearfulness and promotes confidence.
3. Health Check: Schedule a vet visit if you haven't already. Ensure vaccinations are up to date and discuss any health concerns or dietary needs.
4. Behavior Observations: Pay attention to your dog's behavior patterns and preferences. This helps you understand their personality and needs better. Sometimes a dog will be shut down for the first few days or weeks and maladaptive behaviors might begin to surface around the 3 week mark when they start to feel more confident and come out of their shell.
5. Bonding Time: Spend quality time with your dog to build trust and establish a bond. Gentle petting, calm talking, and sitting near them can help your dog feel more secure.
3-Month Rule:
1. Consolidate Training: Continue reinforcing good behavior and practicing commands. Consider more advanced training or specialized classes if needed.
2. Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Increase exercise as your dog settles in. Provide toys and activities that challenge them mentally. You can start this within the first week of them coming home.
3. Bonding Time: Spend quality time bonding through play, grooming, and relaxation. This strengthens your relationship and builds trust.
4. Review and Adjust: Reflect on your dog's progress and any challenges. Adjust routines or training methods as needed to support their development.
5. Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your dog’s progress, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement isn’t just for your dog – it helps keep you motivated and positive too.
We can help your dog settle into a routine by taking him for daily walks when you’re at work. If some of the behaviors need attention, we can help with that, too, with dog training.
Remember, every dog adjusts at his own pace. Patience, consistency, and love are key to helping your new companion feel secure and to thrive in his new home.
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