Bringing a rescue dog home: the first week

Keep the first week quiet and predictable: one room or area to start, the same times for food, walks and bed, and few visitors. Most rescue dogs need a few weeks to settle, so expect some nerves, accidents and a bit of hiding at first.

Before the dog comes home

Check the fence and gates for gaps; new dogs often try to go back where they came from.
A bed in a quiet corner, food and water bowls, a collar with an ID tag and a lead
The same food the shelter used, to start; change slowly over a week
Decide who walks and feeds the dog, and the house rules (couch or not)

The first days

Walk the dog round the yard on a lead first, then let them explore inside one room at a time.
Keep visitors away for the first few days.
Same times every day for food, walks and bed. Routine helps a nervous dog settle.
Take them out often and praise them for going outside: accidents in the first week are normal.
Introduce other pets slowly: on a lead, on neutral ground, for short meetings.

The first vet visit and groom

Book a vet check in the first week or two, and bring the shelter's papers. Ask when the next vaccinations and deworming are due, and about tick and flea treatment.

A bath and brush in the second or third week, once the dog trusts you, helps with shedding and ticks. Choose a calm, short first groom.

Questions

More adoption guides

How long does a rescue dog take to settle?

Many people use 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months as a guide: overwhelmed at first, settling into the routine after a few weeks, and fully at home after a few months.

My rescue dog won't eat. Is that normal?

For a day or two, often yes: stress puts dogs off food. If it lasts longer, or they're vomiting or quiet, see a vet.

When can I bath my rescue dog?

Wait until they're settled, usually a week or two, unless they arrive dirty or with ticks. Keep the first bath calm and short.