If you’ve recently adopted a dog — or you’re thinking about helping out the overcrowded shelter by bringing a furry friend home — there’s something important you need to know: the 3-3-3 rule.
This simple rule helps set realistic expectations for what your new dog is going through and how long it might take them to feel at home. Spoiler alert: dogs don’t settle in overnight.
Let’s break it down in everyday terms.
🐾 What Is the 3-3-3 Rule?
It’s a general guideline that explains the three big adjustment stages most rescue dogs go through after adoption:
⏳ 3 Days – Feeling Freaked Out
Your dog is confused, overwhelmed, and doesn’t know where they are or who you are.
- They may hide, pace, bark, or act shy.
- Eating and sleeping may be irregular.
- Accidents in the house? Totally normal.
- They might test boundaries or be completely shut down.
Think of it like being dropped into a new country where you don’t speak the language and don’t know anyone. You wouldn’t be yourself right away either.
🐕 3 Weeks – Learning the Routine
Now they’re starting to settle in.
- Your dog begins to realize this might be home.
- They learn when mealtimes happen and when the walks come.
- You’ll see more of their personality peek out — both the sweet stuff and the “needs work” stuff.
- They may start testing you a bit as they figure out the rules.
This is when training, patience, and consistency matter most.
🏡 3 Months – Feeling at Home
Your dog now feels like part of the family.
- Trust has developed.
- They understand the house rules (mostly).
- You’ve built a bond — the kind that leads to loyalty, cuddles, and a lifelong friendship.
By this point, the “new dog chaos” has calmed, and your pup knows they’re safe, loved, and home for good.
❤️ Thinking of Rehoming? Wait Just a Little Longer
Too often, people adopt a dog, hit the 3-day freakout phase, and think they’ve made a mistake.
Before you throw in the towel, ask yourself if you’ve truly given your new pet the time they need to adjust.
Remember:
- A dog that chews your shoes on Day 2 isn’t a bad dog — they’re a scared, confused dog.
- That shy dog hiding in the corner could be your most loyal companion in a few weeks.
- Patience now pays off in years of love later.
🐾 Why This Matters Now
Local shelters — including ours right here in Scioto County — are beyond full. They’re dealing with everything from stray dogs to hoarding cases. Adopting a dog doesn’t just change their life — it helps the whole community.
But it’s also a commitment. If you’re going to do it, do it with open eyes and an open heart.