Adopting a rescue or street dog: the first weeks at home
How to help a dog from a shelter or the street settle in: safety, routine, a vet visit, patience and the 3-3-3 rule.
A dog that has lived in a shelter or on the street needs time to realise it's safe. Don't expect a “perfect dog” on day one. Many people use a simple guide, the 3-3-3 rule:
- 3 days: confused, may not eat, hides or shuts down.
- 3 weeks: learns the routine and starts showing its personality.
- 3 months: feels this is home.
Every dog is different; the numbers are only a guide.
Safety first
The first weeks are when dogs are most often lost: they get scared, slip out of their collar and run.
- an escape-proof harness, or a collar and harness with two leads
- an ID tag with your mobile number from day one
- check for gaps in the yard fence and balcony railings
- take care at the front door when people come and go
A calm start
- a quiet corner of its own, with a bed and water
- set times for meals and walks
- the same food it was eating at first, then a gradual change
- few visitors in the first days
- reward the good things; never punish accidents indoors
A vet visit in the first week
Even if the shelter gave you a health booklet, a visit helps:
- a general check and a review of vaccinations
- tests for leishmaniasis and tick-borne diseases, if not done recently
- parasite protection
- transferring the microchip registration to your name
- a talk about neutering, if not already done
When you need help
Fear, barking, anxiety when left alone or reacting on the lead are common in dogs that have had a hard time. A dog trainer using positive methods can make a big difference, and the earlier the better.
Not adopted yet? See animals looking for a home, or become a temporary foster home for a stray. For the first visit, book a vet.
Frequently asked questions
My new dog won’t eat in the first days. Should I worry?
Some loss of appetite in the first 24 hours due to stress is common. If it hasn’t eaten for over 1–2 days, or has vomiting, diarrhoea or lethargy, see a vet.
When can it stay home alone?
Start with a few minutes and build up gradually. If it shows strong anxiety, get help from a trainer.
Should I change its name?
You can. Dogs quickly learn a new name if they link it with something nice, like treats.