Adjustment Period & Decompression Plan
Moving into a new home is a major transition for a rescue dog. It can take 30–90 days or longer for a dog to feel secure, learn the household routine, and show their more typical behavior. During the early adjustment period, a dog may appear nervous, withdrawn, overly attached, restless, fearful, reactive, or unsure around unfamiliar people, children, animals, places, and situations.
To help the dog decompress safely, we strongly recommend keeping the first several weeks calm and predictable. This may include limiting visitors, avoiding crowded outings or major events, keeping introductions slow and controlled, providing a consistent routine, and allowing the dog to build trust with the household before expanding their world.