08/08/2025
They don’t need the whole house on day one.
In fact, too much "freedom" in your home can create challenges in those first few days.
➡️ Unfamiliar places can add more stress to an already anxious pup or dog.
They need time to adjust to their new environment.
Everything is different.....scents, sights, people, surfaces, and sounds.
Let them settle into one room before opening up the rest of the house.
Nervous or overstimulated dogs may toilet inside or even become destructive.
Chewing is natural... but you might not like what they find if they’re off exploring unsupervised rooms.
You’re adjusting to them as much as they are to you.
Limiting access to a couple of rooms really can help and it helps with that crucial early bonding.
➡️ Don’t be afraid to ask for help.
The adoption centre, rescue, or foster family often knows what your dog needs or prefers.
They want you to succeed and can help you through the early stages.
In the nicest way possible....use that support.
Reach out.
They’re there to help, not judge.
➡️ Don’t smother.
Children especially may want to show physical affection right away.
It’s tough to tell them no....but your new dog has been through a lot.
They don’t know or fully trust anyone yet.
Being hugged, kissed, or cuddled before trust has been built.....that’s too much.
They’ll let you know when they’re ready for more.
We try to stress the importance of this with every foster and adopter. Dogs get returned often when they have “too much too soon”.
This helps set them up for success. ❤️ copied
