The 3 Days, 3 Weeks, 3 Month Rule
In the first 3 days,your new dog will be overwhelmed with their new surroundings. They will not be comfortable enough to be themself. Don’t be alarmed if they don’t want to eat for the first couple of days, many dogs don’t eat when they are stressed. They may shut down and want to curl up in their crate or under the table. They may be scared and unsure what is going on. Or they may be the opposite and test you to see what they can get away with, kind of like a teenager.
After 3 weeks, they are starting to settle in, feeling more comfortable, and realizing this really may be their forever home. They have figured out their environment and getting into the routine that you have set. They let their guard down and may start showing their real personality. Behavior issues may start showing, this is your time to let them what is right and wrong.
After 3 months, your dog is now comfortable in their new home. You have built trust and a true bond with your dog, which gives them a complete sense of security with you. They are set in their routine and will come to expect dinner at the usual time.