Building a Harmonious Home for Your New Furry Friend

It doesn’t happen overnight.

Bringing home a newly adopted dog is an exciting and joyous experience! You want to take them everywhere, introduce them to everyone and everything.

But wait! Hold up a second…

It is crucial to remember that your new dog needs time to adjust to their new home. The 3/3/3 rule provides a helpful guideline for understanding the phases your new best friend may go through during this transitional period. Regardless of coming from a positive or negative environment. By giving your dog three days to decompress, three weeks to learn your routine, and three months to start feeling at home, you can build a strong foundation for a long-lasting bond.

Phase 1: Three Days to Decompress

The first three days after adopting a dog are crucial for allowing them to decompress and adjust to their new environment. Keep in mind that their prior experiences, whether positive or negative, may have left them feeling anxious or stressed. During this phase, it is essential to create a calm and secure environment. Set up a designated space that includes their bed, toys, and water, providing them with a safe haven where they can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. Avoid overwhelming your new furry friend with excessive visits from friends or family at this stage, allowing them ample time and space to relax and start getting to know you at their own pace.

Phase 2: Three Weeks to Learn Your Routine

As your dog begins to settle and feel more comfortable, the next three weeks are critical for establishing a routine. Like humans, dogs thrive on consistency and structure. Introduce a predictable daily routine encompassing regular mealtimes, exercise schedules, playtime, and training sessions. Offering treats and positive reinforcement during this phase will help reinforce desired behaviors and strengthen the bond between you and your new companion. Gradually expose your dog to new experiences, such as short walks, meeting other dogs, or supervised playdates, to help them adapt to the wider world outside their safe space. Patience and understanding are key as your four-legged friend starts to learn their place within your family and becomes familiar with their surroundings.

Phase 3: Three Months to Start Feeling at Home

After approximately three months, your dog should start feeling more at home in their new environment. By now, they have likely grown accustomed to your routine, established a strong bond with you and your family, and become more confident in their surroundings. However, keep in mind that while some dogs may adjust more quickly, others, especially if they have a history of trauma or neglect, might need a little extra time.

The rule of 3 is a fantastic guideline to follow when adopting a dog, however, just like humans, some dogs may need more time to adjust to their new environment. Some may catch on faster! Remember, patience is key when helping your new furry friend adjust. With time and understanding, you'll forge a bond that's truly unbreakable.