What to Expect When Adopting a New Dog
Bringing a new puppy or dog into your home is an exciting and rewarding experience. It’s also a big commitment that requires patience, preparation, and understanding. Every dog is different, and while many adjust quickly, others may need more time and support. Below, you’ll find what to expect in the first days, weeks, and months after adoption, as well as some helpful guidelines to ensure a smooth transition for your new family member.
Puppies: Bursts of Energy & Learning Stages
Puppies are a lot like toddlers—playful, curious, and full of energy in short bursts. They may run, chew, jump, and explore for 15–60 minutes, then crash into a deep nap. As they grow, their energy tends to balance out, but we cannot guarantee any specific adult energy level.
At this stage, puppies are not fully house-trained or crate-trained, so accidents will happen. They may also nibble on hands, feet, clothing, or shoes and often need guidance on what is appropriate to chew. It’s important to puppy-proof your home by tucking away loose items and consistently redirecting them to safe toys.
Potty Training & Routine
Young puppies have small bladders and cannot hold it for long. Expect to take them out frequently, especially after eating, drinking, waking up, or playing. Creating a routine right away helps them learn quickly. Positive reinforcement—such as treats and praise when they potty outside—goes a long way in establishing good habits.
Financial Commitments
Owning a dog comes with both predictable and unexpected costs. Beyond the adoption fee, you’ll need supplies like a crate, bed, food, toys, and more (often $300–600+ upfront). Ongoing expenses, such as food, preventatives, and vet care, typically range $100–300 per month.
We strongly recommend pet insurance ($20–50/month) to help offset the cost of emergencies or illnesses. Insurance can cover anywhere from 50–90% of major medical procedures and often contributes toward annual vet visits, making it a valuable safety net.
Scheduling a vet appointment within the first week of adoption is highly encouraged so your veterinarian can meet your dog, confirm their vaccination schedule, and establish a plan for ongoing care.
Training & Socialization
All puppies and dogs need guidance to become well-mannered family members. Expect to work through common challenges such as chewing, jumping, mouthing, leash pulling, and potty accidents. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key.
Because every rescue dog has a unique background, genetics and early experiences may influence behavior or health down the line. For this reason, we always encourage enrolling in puppy classes or hiring a certified trainer early on. Even experienced dog owners benefit from training classes as they provide structure, prevent unwanted behaviors, and strengthen your bond with your new pet.
Breed Expectations & Unknowns
Most of the rescue dogs are mixed breeds, and while we can estimate size, coat, and temperament, we cannot guarantee exact breed or future personality traits. Researching common traits of the breed(s) your dog may resemble can help you prepare, but flexibility is important—your new family member will be uniquely themselves.
Introducing Your New Dog to Other Pets
If you have other pets, be patient and intentional with introductions. Some animals adjust quickly, while others may take weeks or months. Provide safe retreat spaces for all pets and use tools such as crates, gates, or leashes to create boundaries. Remember, breaks and separations are healthy—everyone needs downtime.
Dogs & Children
When bringing a puppy into a home with children, supervision is crucial. Puppies may nip, jump, or scratch as they play and explore, while children may accidentally pull ears, tails, or fur. Teaching mutual respect and setting boundaries is essential for safety and harmony.
Give your dog a “safe zone” (like a crate or quiet corner) where they can rest undisturbed, and teach children not to bother dogs while they’re eating, chewing, or seeking space. Learning to read canine body language helps children and adults better understand when a pup needs a break.
The 3:3:3 Adjustment Rule
Every dog adjusts at their own pace, but many follow a general timeline known as the 3:3:3 Rule:
3 Days to decompress and start adjusting to new surroundings.
3 Weeks to learn the household routine.
3 Months to fully feel at home and show their true personality.
Some dogs settle immediately, while others take longer. During the early days, keep things calm—limit visitors, stick to routines, and give your dog time to bond with your household before introducing them to new environments or experiences.
A Lifetime Commitment
Adopting a dog is a lifelong promise—often 10–15+ years. Before adopting, make sure you and all household members are ready for the time, financial, and emotional responsibilities of caring for a dog throughout their entire life.