Many rescue dogs have been through a lot of changes (and even trauma), so they need time to settle in and feel safe. The “3-3-3 Rule” is a great way to understand what to expect as your dog adjusts to their new life. It breaks down the first three days, three weeks, and three months to give you an idea of how they might be feeling, and it can help guide you on how to support them during each stage.

Let’s walk through what the 3-3-3 Rule is all about, so you can set up your new dog for a successful transition into your family.

What is the 3-3-3 Rule?

The 3-3-3 Rule is a general timeline of a rescue dog’s adjustment period, broken down into:

The first 3 days: When they’re feeling a bit overwhelmed and unsure
The first 3 weeks: When they’re starting to feel more settled and beginning to understand your routine
The first 3 months: When they’re finally feeling at home, building trust, and showing their true personality

Of course, every dog is different, so some may adjust faster or need more time. But overall, the 3-3-3 Rule can help you know what to expect and give your dog the best start in their new home.

The First 3 Days: Feeling Overwhelmed

In the first few days, your rescue dog might feel a bit overwhelmed by all the new sights, sounds, and smells. Some dogs may seem shy or scared, while others may be overly excited or nervous. Here’s what to expect and how you can help:

Expect some withdrawal or clinginess: They might hide under furniture, avoid eye contact, or just seem really nervous. Some dogs may be the opposite and follow you everywhere for comfort.
Give them a safe space: Set up a cozy spot in a quiet area with their bed, some water, and maybe a few toys. Let them know they can go there if they need a break.
Keep things low-key: Limit visitors and avoid overwhelming them with too many new experiences right away. Give them time to explore and start to get used to you and their new surroundings at their own pace.
Stick to a simple routine: Start establishing a feeding, potty, and bedtime routine right away. Dogs feel safer when they know what to expect.

The First 3 Weeks: Starting to Settle In

After a few weeks, your dog should be starting to feel more comfortable. They’ll begin to get used to your daily routine, recognize you as their “person,” and start to feel like this is their new home.

Building trust: Your dog is likely beginning to trust you, but they’re still figuring things out. They might start following you around, relaxing more, or even testing boundaries a bit.
Learning the rules: Start working on basic commands and house rules. Be patient and consistent; it can take a while for a new dog to understand what’s expected, especially if they’ve had a difficult past.
Showing more of their personality: At this point, you may see more of their quirks, preferences, and playful side come out. Some dogs might start feeling comfortable enough to test their boundaries, so it’s a good time to reinforce positive behavior.

The First 3 Months: Settling in and Feeling Like Family

Around the three-month mark, most dogs start to feel truly at home. They know they’re part of the family and have developed a strong bond with you. This is when you’ll see your dog’s true personality, and they’ll be fully settled into your routine and household.

Building strong routines: By now, your dog should have a good understanding of daily routines, potty breaks, and household rules. They may still need reminders here and there, but they’re likely feeling much more confident.
Forming deep trust and bonding: After three months, your dog probably feels secure and connected to you. This is the foundation of a lasting relationship, and it’s a great time to reinforce training, continue building trust, and enjoy all the new adventures you can share.
Recognizing their “forever home”: At this stage, your dog truly feels like part of the family. They’ll be more comfortable with other family members, pets, and visitors, and they’ll likely be relaxed enough to fully enjoy life in their new home.

Tips to Help Your Rescue Dog Adjust

To help your dog settle in during each stage, here are a few extra tips:

Be patient: Remember, every dog is unique, and some may take longer than others to adjust. Go at your dog’s pace and celebrate their progress, even if it seems small.
Positive reinforcement: Reward good behavior with treats, praise, and love. Building positive associations with their new life is key.
Consistent routines: Dogs thrive on routine. Try to feed, walk, and let them out at similar times each day. This structure helps them feel secure.
Give them space when they need it: Some dogs need more alone time than others, especially if they’re adjusting to a big change. Respect their boundaries and let them come to you when they’re ready.

Adopting a rescue dog is incredibly rewarding, but it does require some patience and understanding. The 3-3-3 Rule is a helpful way to think about your dog’s journey and see things from their perspective as they adjust to this big new change. By giving them time, love, and a steady routine, you’re helping your rescue dog feel safe, secure, and truly at home. Before long, you’ll have a happy, loyal companion who knows they’ve found their forever family.