Bringing home a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding experiences—for both you and your new companion. It’s an exciting and important time, but it can also be a little overwhelming for your dog, especially if they’ve spent time in a shelter or have had an uncertain past.
Here are some helpful tips to ensure a calm, comfortable transition and set your dog up for a happy life with you.
1. Prepare the Essentials
Before your dog arrives, make sure you have the basics ready:
- A comfortable bed and blanket
- Food and water bowls
- High-quality dog food
- Collar, lead, and ID tag
- Poo bags and cleaning supplies
- Toys and treats for comfort and enrichment
Your rescue organisation will be able to advise you on specific needs based on your dog’s background.
2. Dog-Proof Your Home
Safety first. Remove any hazards such as:
- Toxic plants
- Loose wires
- Small or fragile items at nose level
Think about your home from a dog’s perspective and create a safe, welcoming environment.
3. Let Them Explore
When your dog first arrives, give them the freedom to explore their new surroundings. There will be lots of new smells and sights to process, so allow them time and space to sniff around the house and garden.
4. Give Them Space to Settle
Every dog is different. Some might come straight to you for affection, while others may prefer to hide for a while—this is perfectly normal. Avoid forcing interaction; let your dog come to you when they’re ready.
Create a quiet, comfortable spot where your dog can retreat when they need downtime. A crate can be a great option, especially with the door removed. Make it cosy with bedding, a blanket draped over the top, and a few soft toys or treats inside. This can become their personal safe space.
5. Establish a Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. Consistent times for feeding, toilet breaks, walks, and quiet time help them feel secure. Just like in shelters, a predictable daily structure builds confidence.
6. Go Easy on the Fuss
It’s natural to want to shower your new dog with love and attention, but too much interaction can be overwhelming at first—especially if they show signs of discomfort like:
- Excessive panting
- “Whale eyes” (wide, whites of eyes showing)
- Lip licking
- Tail tucked or ears pinned back
- Rolling onto their back (this can signal anxiety, not an invitation for belly rubs)
Respect their signals and give them time to adjust at their own pace.
7. Hold Off on Visitors
As tempting as it is to introduce your dog to friends and family, it’s best to wait until around week 3 or 4. Allow your dog to settle in and build trust with you first. When visitors do come, introduce them gradually in a calm and controlled way.
8. Consider Separation Anxiety
Some rescue dogs may struggle being left alone. They might not be used to human companionship—or they may fear being abandoned again. It’s common for them to follow you from room to room or want to sleep nearby at first.
You can gradually encourage independence by starting with short absences and increasing the time slowly. If they want to sleep close to you initially, that’s okay—just be mindful of where their bed is placed. Avoid noisy or exposed areas, like beside a ground-floor window.
If separation anxiety becomes a challenge, contact your rescue centre for guidance.
9. Support Toilet Training
If your dog isn’t house-trained yet, take them out regularly—especially after eating, sleeping, or playing. Praise and reward them immediately when they toilet in the right spot. Never punish accidents—gentle, consistent guidance and positive reinforcement are key to building trust.
10. Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, or playtime. Avoid scolding or punishment—it can damage your relationship and cause fear. Focus on building a bond based on trust, patience, and kindness.
Be Understanding: The 5-5-5 Rule
Remember this simple guide to adjustment:
- 5 days to decompress
- 5 weeks to learn the routine
- 5 months to fully settle and bond
Every dog is different—some may take more or less time. But with love, structure, and patience, your rescue dog will begin to feel safe, confident, and deeply connected to you.
Authored by Tina Digby
