THE 3-3-3 RULE OF ADOPTING A DOG
Bringing a new dog home is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be overwhelming for both you and your new furry friend. The 3-3-3 Rule is a general guideline that helps adopters understand what their new dog might be experiencing during the adjustment period. It breaks down the first 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months post-adoption, giving a realistic timeline for settling in, decompressing, and building trust.
First 3 Days: The Decompression Period
Your new dog is likely feeling overwhelmed and unsure of their new surroundings. Everything is unfamiliar—new people, new smells, new routines. They may be:
✔️ Shy, anxious, or withdrawn—some dogs may hide, avoid interaction, or seem uninterested.
✔️ Overly excited or stressed—some dogs might pace, whine, or bark due to uncertainty.
✔️ Sleeping a lot or not at all—adjusting to a new place can be exhausting!
✔️ Not eating or drinking much—stress can affect appetite.
✔️ Testing boundaries—expect accidents, leash pulling, or other unwanted behaviors as they settle in.
What You Can Do:
Give them a safe space to retreat (e.g., a crate or quiet area).
Keep things calm and predictable—limit visitors and avoid overwhelming activities.
Stick to a routine (feeding, potty breaks, walks/enrichment) to create stability.
Avoid too much pressure—let them come to you when they’re ready.
First 3 Weeks: Settling In TO THE ROUTINE
Your dog is starting to understand their new routine and feel a little more comfortable. However, this is also when you may start to see more of their true personality, along with behavioral challenges.
✔️ Building trust—they are beginning to bond with you.
✔️ Testing boundaries—as they get comfortable, they may push limits to see what’s allowed.
✔️ Showing more personality—energy levels, playfulness, or quirks may start to emerge.
✔️ Learning the rules—consistency is key in training!
What You Can Do:
Stick to training basics—establish structure and clear rules.
Keep socialization low and positive—avoid rushing introductions to too many new people, dogs, or environments.
Reward good behaviors—reinforce positive habits early on.
Be patient—behavioral hiccups are normal as they learn what’s expected of them.
First 3 Months: BUILDING TRUST
By now, your dog is feeling comfortable at home. They understand the routine, feel bonded to you, and are more confident in their environment. This is also when deeper training and relationship-building can take place.
✔️ Bonding is solidified—your dog trusts you and looks to you for guidance.
✔️ Confidence increases—they feel safe and understand their role in the household.
✔️ More behaviors emerge—both good and bad; now is the time for consistent training.
✔️ Stronger attachment—separation anxiety may show up if they become overly dependent.
What You Can Do:
Continue reinforcing training and socialization.
Give them enrichment and activities to keep them engaged.
Work on advanced skills like recall, leash manners, or impulse control.
Watch for any lingering behavioral issues and seek a trainer if needed.
The Key to Success is Patience & Consistency
The 3-3-3 Rule is just a guideline, not a strict timeline. Every dog is different, and some may adjust more quickly while others need extra time and patience—especially if they’ve experienced trauma, neglect, or multiple rehomings. Dogs carrying fear, anxiety, or past trauma may take months or even years to fully trust and feel secure.
The key is to meet them where they are, provide structure, safety, and positive reinforcement, and celebrate small victories along the way. The most important things you can offer your new companion are patience, consistency, and understanding. By following the 3-3-3 Rule, you’ll set realistic expectations and create a smoother transition for both you and your new dog, leading to a happy and fulfilling life together!
What if my dog is still struggling after the 3-3-3 Timeframe is up?
If your dog is struggling beyond the normal adjustment period, don’t hesitate to seek help from a qualified trainer or behaviorist to support their journey.
Know someone thinking of adopting?
Share this guide to help new adopters understand what to expect!
