How to Help a Rescue Dog Settle In

Bringing home a rescue dog is a little different to getting a puppy. Excited pups have limited prior experiences and only know the loving time they spent with their mum. Rescue dogs may come with baggage and part of settling them in is learning that. You will find out what they do and don’t like, what reassures them, and what scares them. The settling-in period is all about learning all about your new family member!

When they first come home, they may be anxious, and you may not see their real personality shine through until they become more confident. They can hide away initially or not want to be touched, which is all ok. They just need time to feel safe in their new surroundings!

While you can’t explain to your new pup what has happened and why they’re now in a totally new environment, you can make sure they have everything they need. Before you bring your new addition home, make sure you have the essentials:

When you take a new puppy home, you will usually find that everyone gets a turn to play with and cuddle them. The contact often helps them settle in, but bringing home a rescue dog is a little different and adult dogs may need more space when they’re trying to find their feet.

It takes a lot of willpower but letting them come around to you in their own time is important for your future bond with them. Your new rescue dog should learn that they can trust you no matter what. Be extra cautious and avoid pushing them out of their comfort zone – they need they need to learn to trust you. There’s no shortcut if you want a long-lasting friendship with them.

How long is a piece of string? Every dog is different. Their personalities can vary when it comes down to settling into new routines and overcoming the anxiety of a new home. You might have a dog that settles into their new routine within a few weeks and seamlessly becomes a much-loved member of the family in no time at all.

If you adopt a dog that’s more nervous, then the time they take to settle in can be very different. Some dogs who find themselves at rehoming centres have come from cases of neglect, so it takes them longer to trust new people.

Other times, the pups looking for homes may have lived a sheltered existence so new environments and people are scary even though nothing bad has ever happened to them.

How long it takes for a rescue dog to settle in varies depending on their background and their temperament. It can be anywhere from a few weeks to several months, but it will be worth it when they finally trust you and become part of the family.

Our four-legged friends tend to go into a state of fight or flight in stressful situations. You may notice that your new rescue pup has moments where they rely on these instincts.

When approaching a fearful dog, they often freeze, which is a clear sign they have entered a state of distress. They may run away, hide, growl or all of the above – it’s a clear sign to give them the space they need!

Having a few calming spaces, they can retreat is extremely helpful for rescue pups. Not only are they able to de-stress but it’s a valuable source of comfort they haven’t had before. Beds like Beddies Light Grey Calming Bed help support anxious rescue dogs -  their doughnut shape help imitate the feeling they are being cuddled. Without having the direct interaction from a human - your new friend feel safe and protected!

Some doggies prefer to have a crate as their own personal space so they know these little hideaways mean they can get some alone time!