Bringing Home Your New Rescue Dog

Bringing home a rescue dog can be an exciting and rewarding experience. But it's important to remember that rescue dogs often come with their own unique set of challenges.

One of the most critical aspects of welcoming a rescue dog into your home is being patient. It can take time for a rescue dog to feel comfortable and build trust with their new owner.

Here are a few things to remember after taking your new rescue home:

1. Your new rescue may have traumatic experiences.

   Many rescue dogs have experienced trauma or neglect, which can make it challenging for them to adjust to a new home. They may have trust issues, anxiety, or fear of new people and situations. It's essential to understand that these behaviours are not personal and the only way to work through them is with consistency, patient and routine.
   

2. Comfort takes time.

   Rescue dogs need time to adjust to their new environment and build trust with their new family. They may be scared or unsure of their surroundings, which can make them seem distant or unresponsive. It's important to give your dog space to acclimate and not force them to interact with you or other pets. We talk about this a lot in our New Rescue Dog Guide that we send to fosters and adopters!
   

3. Trust building should be rewarding!

   Building trust is essential to any successful relationship, and it's especially crucial when adopting a rescue dog. It takes time and patience to earn your dog's trust, and you may need to work with a trainer to help your dog overcome any trust issues they may have.

   It’s important not to force yourself on your new rescue. Allow them time to trust you through consistent routines, positive associations and positive interactions over time.
   

4. Consistency is key

   We say this a lot but consistency is key when working with rescue dogs. They need a stable routine and predictable environment to feel safe and secure. Stick to a consistent schedule for feeding, walking, and playtime, and make sure everyone in the household is following the same rules.

   Many of the common concerns that families face with new dogs in the home can be solved easily with structure, routine and consistent actions.
   

5. Don't give up.

   It's essential to have realistic expectations when adopting a rescue dog. They may take longer to adjust than you initially thought, but it's important not to give up on them.

   With patience, consistency, and love, your rescue dog can become a happy and well-adjusted pet.
   

We’re not going to sugar coat things - bringing a new rescue home can be challenging in the beginning. But remember that by setting realistic expectations and being mindful, you will build a bond with your new pet that will last a lifetime.

If you’re looking for more information, such as veterinary, training or other recommendations, check out our resource page here.