The 3 3 3 guideline for bringing home a new dog is often used to help your new fur baby adjust to their new environment. It’s popularized by rescue organizations and trainers to provide a timeframe for understanding a dog’s behavior in a new home and to help keep the pet in place.
The first few days and weeks with a new dog can be challenging for even the most experienced owner, often causing well-intentioned owners to give up or re-home their dogs.
By understanding the 3 3 3 Guideline and putting its practices in place, you and your dog have a better chance of making a stronger bond and connection and keeping the dog in its home.
Defining the 3 3 3 Guideline for Dogs
Phase 1: The First 3 Days
The first three days after bringing a new dog home are crucial for setting the foundation of trust and comfort. During this period, it’s common for dogs to experience heightened anxiety and stress due to the unfamiliar environment and separation from their previous surroundings. Here’s what to expect and how to help:
- Adjustment Period: Dogs may seem withdrawn, nervous, or uncertain. They might not eat much, explore cautiously, or even hide.
- Creating a Safe Space: Provide a designated area where the dog can retreat if they feel overwhelmed. This can be a crate, a quiet corner with a bed, or a specific room with their belongings.
- Establishing Routine: Introduce a consistent schedule for feeding, walks, and bathroom breaks. Predictability helps alleviate anxiety and allows the dog to anticipate what comes next.
- Bonding and Trust Building: Spend time sitting near the dog, offering treats, and using gentle, reassuring tones. Avoid overwhelming them with too much attention initially; let them approach you at their own pace. Wait to introduce family members and friends and avoid dog interactions and dog parks.
Phase 2: The Next 3 Weeks
As the initial adjustment phase transitions into the next three weeks, the dog starts to settle into their new life more comfortably. They begin to understand the household routines, recognize family members, and build trust. This phase focuses on:
- Increasing Comfort: The dog becomes more familiar with their surroundings, including the layout of the home and the daily routines of the family.
- Behavioral Insights: You may start noticing the dog’s true personality emerging as they become more relaxed. They might show curiosity, playfulness, or display their natural behaviors.
- Training and Guidance: Begin introducing basic training commands and positive reinforcement techniques. This helps reinforce desired behaviors and builds confidence in the dog.
- Socialization: Gradually expose the dog to new experiences, people, and gentle interactions with other pets (if applicable). This helps them develop social skills and adaptability and builds a strong foundation for the months to come.
Phase 3: The Final 3 Months
By the end of three months, the dog should feel fully integrated into their new home environment. They are likely to exhibit more confidence, trust, and a sense of belonging. This phase focuses on:
- Solidifying Routine: Maintain a consistent schedule for feeding, exercise, and training. Consistency reinforces positive behaviors and helps the dog feel secure.
- Advanced Training: Continue building on basic training commands and introduce more advanced skills as the dog becomes more responsive and comfortable.
- Health and Wellness: Schedule regular veterinary check-ups, maintain proper grooming, and ensure the dog’s overall well-being.
- Building Strong Bonds: Strengthen the bond with the dog through regular playtime, walks, and quality time together. Positive interactions with both humans and other dogs help deepen the emotional connection. By this period, you should see quite a difference in your dog’s personality and life should be a bit smoother for all of you.
Considerations for Following the 3 3 3 Guideline
Following the 3 3 3 guideline provides a structured approach to help dogs transition smoothly into their new homes. Every dog is unique, so adjustments may be needed based on their personality, history, and individual needs. Patience, consistency, and understanding are key throughout this process, fostering a loving and supportive environment where the dog can thrive and feel at home.
Playdates at The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa
The Ranch Pet Resort and Spa wishes all new dogs and dog owners success with the 3 3 3 Rule. When your new pup is ready to show off its confidence and build more social relationships, we would love to have him for a playdate! Contact us for a meet and greet!
