If you’re wondering how to prepare your home for a rescue dog, you’re not alone. Bringing a new companion home is exciting, but it can feel a little overwhelming. The good news is, the CDCH team is here to help! We’ve gathered our top tips to make the process smoother and ensure your new companion feels right at home from day one.
Preparing your home physically
Before your new rescue dog arrives, it’s important to make sure your home is safe, comfortable, and ready for curious paws. A little preparation now can help your dog settle in more quickly and prevent any mishaps in those first few days.
Ensure any hazards are safely out of reach for your dog including any toxic plants or foods in accessible areas.
Provide your dog with a few cozy spots where they can relax and feel secure in their new home.
Choose a quiet, consistent spot for meals to help your dog feel secure and establish a routine.
Have collars, leads, toys, and grooming tools ready so your dog has everything they need from day one.
Preparing your family
Welcoming a rescue dog is a big change for everyone in the household. Taking time to prepare your family (both humans and any existing pets) will help make the transition smoother and ensure your new companion feels safe and accepted from the start.
Bringing home your newest family member is incredibly exciting for everyone. But it can also be overwhelming for your rescue dog, so it’s important to give them time to settle in before introducing them to new people. Focus first on helping them feel comfortable and safe in their new home.
When introducing your new dog to family members, take it slow and keep greetings calm and gentle. Allow everyone to meet your dog one at a time to avoid overwhelming them.
Remember that every rescue dog comes with its own unique history, and some behaviours may take time to understand or adjust. Patience, empathy, and a gentle approach will help your dog feel safe and supported as they settle into their new home.
Mental and emotional preparation
Adopting a rescue dog is as much an emotional journey as it is a practical one. Preparing yourself for the joys, challenges, and adjustments ahead will help you build patience, understanding, and a strong bond with your new friend.
Many rescue dogs have experienced difficult situations before coming to you, which can affect their behaviour. Being aware that fear, anxiety, or unusual reactions may occur helps you respond calmly and supportively.
The first days, weeks, and months are crucial for settling in. Giving your dog space to explore, gradually introducing new experiences, and offering consistent reassurance will help them build confidence and feel secure in their new home.
Dogs thrive on routine, so keeping feeding times, walks, and bedtime consistent helps them understand what to expect. This stability reduces stress and helps your dog settle into family life.
First few days at home: What to expect
Those first few days with your rescue dog are a time of discovery for you both. Understanding what’s normal and how to respond will help your new companion feel secure as they adjust to their unfamiliar surroundings.
The first days with your new dog can bring challenges such as accidents in the house, nervous behaviour, or reluctance to explore. Staying patient, calm, and consistent while gently guiding them helps your dog learn the new rules without feeling pressured.
Keep an eye out for signs of stress such as pacing, whining, hiding, or excessive licking. Recognising these early allows you to respond appropriately, whether by giving your dog space, seeking advice from the CDCH team or using simple calming tools at home. A kong filled with treats or a pheromone diffuser can help your dog feel safe and supported.
Some behaviours may need extra guidance. If you notice persistent anxiety or other concerning issues, don’t worry – just reach out to us at CDCH. We can offer advice, suggest strategies, or point you toward trusted professional trainers or behaviourists to ensure your dog’s well-being and a smooth adjustment.
Every rescue dog is unique, so the time it takes them to feel completely at home can vary. As a general guide, we often use the 3-3-3 rule:
The first 3 days: Your dog may feel overwhelmed, unsure, or even a little withdrawn. They might not want to eat, drink, or interact much as they start to understand their new environment.
After 3 weeks: Most dogs begin to settle into routines, feel more comfortable, and may start showing their true personality. Some behaviour issues might also emerge as they adjust.
After 3 months: Many dogs are fully comfortable, have built trust with their family, and have settled into a routine, showing their true self and confidence in their new home.
Being patient, offering consistent routines, and giving your dog space to adjust at their own pace will help them settle smoothly. If you have any concerns during this period, the CDCH team is always here to offer advice and support.
Time alone for dogs should be kept to a minimum. Our advice, once a dog is fully settled, is no longer than 4 hours of time alone. If you work longer days you may want to consider arranging alternative care, such as a dog walker, sitter, or trusted person visiting to ensure your dog has the opportunity for a toilet and exercise break.
According to the RSPCA, around 8 out of 10 dogs experience some level of separation anxiety. The good news is that, with the right advice and training, it can be managed, and CDCH will provide all the support your dog needs to feel secure.
Some dogs come to us having had difficult experiences with people or other animals. It’s important to be patient and let them adjust at their own pace. Offering a calm environment, positive reinforcement, and gradual socialisation can help build their confidence and trust over time. Every dog is different, so paying attention to their body language and comfort levels is key
At the Cotswolds Dogs & Cats Home, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re curious about adoption, looking for advice on settling in your new friend, or want to meet the wonderful dogs waiting for a forever home, we’d love to hear from you.
Explore our dogs available for adoption or get in touch with our team today and start your journey to making a lasting difference in a dog’s life.
Not quite ready to adopt? You can still support us by sponsoring a CDCH resident. You will be helping vulnerable animals have the happy, healthy, and loving futures they deserve.
To report cruelty or an animal in distress call 0300 1234 999
RSPCA Cotswolds, Gloucester & District Branch
