What to expect in the first day for your rescue dog

Bringing a rescue dog home is an exciting but overwhelming experience for both you and your new pet. The first day sets the foundation for your dog's adjustment and future behaviour. Here’s what to expect and how to handle it.

1. Nervousness and Fear

   Your rescue dog is in a completely new environment, which can be stressful. They may:

   • Hide, cower, or avoid eye contact.

   • Tremble or pant excessively.

   • Hesitate to explore or stay in one spot.

   • Show submissive behaviors like tucking their tail or lowering their head.

   
   

   💡 What to Do: Give them space and time to settle. Let them explore at their own pace without forcing interaction.

   
   

2. Limited Appetite

   Many rescue dogs won’t eat much on the first day due to stress. They may sniff their food but not touch it or only eat a little.

   
   

   💡 What to Do: Offer a bland, easy-to-digest meal and ensure they have access to fresh water. Avoid hand-feeding or coaxing them too much.

   
   

3. Excessive Sleep or Restlessness

   Some dogs may sleep a lot due to exhaustion from their previous environment, while others might pace and struggle to settle.

   💡 What to Do: Provide a quiet resting area with a comfortable bed or crate. Let them choose when to rest.

   
   

4. House Training Accidents

   Even if they were house-trained before, the new environment can confuse them, leading to accidents.

   
   

   💡 What to Do: Take them out frequently for potty breaks and praise them when they go outside.

   
   

5. Avoiding or Clinging to People

   Some rescue dogs may keep their distance, while others might be overly clingy.

   
   

   💡 What to Do: Respect their comfort level. If they approach, offer gentle petting. If they want space, let them be.

   
   

6. No Interest in Toys or Play

   Many rescue dogs won’t show interest in toys or play immediately. This is normal as they’re still adjusting.

   
   

   💡 What to Do: Have a few toys available but don’t force play. Their personality will emerge over time.

   
   

7. Startling Easily

   Loud noises, sudden movements, or unfamiliar household items may scare them.

   
   

   💡 What to Do: Keep the environment calm and predictable. Avoid overwhelming them with too much activity.

8. Uncertainty with Other Pets

   If you have other pets, your rescue dog may be unsure how to interact with them.

   
   

   💡 What to Do: Supervise all introductions and keep them short and positive. Separate them if needed.

   
   

9. Minimal or Excessive Barking

   Some dogs may be very quiet, while others might bark at unfamiliar sounds.

   
   

   💡 What to Do: Ignore unnecessary barking and reward quiet behaviour.

   
   

10. Adjustment Period

The first day is just the beginning. Full adjustment can take weeks or even months.

💡 What to Do: Be patient, consistent, and positive. Establish a routine, use gentle training, and let trust build naturally.

Your rescue dog is going through a major transition. With time, patience, and love, they will start to feel safe and become part of your family.