Introduction
Adopting a dog is a big responsibility, and it comes with many challenges. One of the biggest challenges is getting your new dog to adjust to their new home. This is where the 3 Day 3 Week 3 Month Rule comes in. This rule is a guideline for helping your new dog adjust to their new surroundings and become comfortable in their new home. In this article, we will discuss what the 3 Day 3 Week 3 Month Rule is and how you can use it to help your adopted dog settle in.
What Is The 3 Day 3 Week 3 Month Rule?
The 3 Day 3 Week 3 Month Rule is a guideline for helping your adopted dog adjust to their new home. The idea behind this rule is that it takes approximately three days, three weeks, and three months for a dog to feel comfortable and settled in their new environment. During each of these periods, there are specific things that you can do to help your dog adjust.
The First 3 Days
The first three days are the most critical for your adopted dog. This is the time when your dog is most likely to feel anxious and scared. During this time, it is important to provide your dog with a safe and comfortable space where they can feel secure. Set up a crate or a bed where your dog can retreat to when they need some quiet time.
It is also important to establish a routine during the first three days. This will help your dog feel more secure and in control. Stick to a regular feeding and exercise schedule, and try to keep things as predictable as possible.
During the first three days, it is also important to limit your dog’s exposure to new people and new environments. This will help your dog feel more comfortable and less overwhelmed by their new surroundings.
The First 3 Weeks
The first three weeks are a time of transition for your adopted dog. During this time, your dog will start to feel more comfortable in their new home, but they may still be adjusting to their new routine and surroundings.
During the first three weeks, it is important to continue establishing routines and providing your dog with a safe and comfortable space. You can also start to slowly introduce your dog to new environments and new people, but do so gradually and on your dog’s terms.
It is also important to start training your dog during the first three weeks. This will help your dog learn new behaviors and become more comfortable in their new environment. Positive reinforcement training is the most effective and humane way to train your dog, so be sure to use treats and praise to reward good behavior.
The First 3 Months
The first three months are a time of adjustment for both you and your adopted dog. By this time, your dog should be feeling comfortable in their new home and should be well on their way to learning new behaviors and routines.
During the first three months, it is important to continue providing your dog with a safe and comfortable space and to maintain a regular routine. You can also start to introduce your dog to new people and new environments more frequently, but always do so gradually and on your dog’s terms.
Training should also be a continued focus during the first three months. Your dog should be responding well to positive reinforcement training, and you can start to introduce more advanced behaviors and commands.
Conclusion
The 3 Day 3 Week 3 Month Rule is a helpful guideline for helping your adopted dog adjust to their new home. By providing a safe and comfortable space, establishing routines, and using positive reinforcement training, you can help your dog feel more comfortable and settled in their new surroundings. Remember to be patient and understanding during the adjustment period, and always work at your dog’s pace.