Dog trainer says the first 72 hours after adoption matter most—here's why
A dog trainer has shared what new owners should focus on during the first 72 hours of adopting a dog—and it’s not what many people expect.
While it may feel instinctive to shower a newly adopted dog with affection, attention and visitors, that approach can actually make the transition harder, according to Kennel Club–accredited dog trainer Joe Nutkins, who is based in England. Instead, she says the early days should be about space, calm routines and allowing dogs to decompress at their own pace.
Around 2 million dogs were adopted in the U.S. in 2024, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). But one study suggests many adopters underestimate the emotional and practical challenges that come with bringing a rescue dog home.
A stock image of a Jack russell terrier dog with a rubber toy ball inside a transport box for animals in a neutral interior.
In 2024, researchers in Australia followed adopters for up to four years and found many had not realized how much time, patience and effort it takes to build trust with a new dog. Owners said understanding what environments their dog felt comfortable in and keeping both the dog and household members safe were among their biggest priorities.
Nutkins says the first three days can shape how secure a dog feels in their new home.
Day One: Let Them Decompress
The first day begins when the dog arrives home, regardless of how much time is left in the day. Nutkins explains that even a few hours still count as day one, and if a dog arrives overnight—such as from overseas—day one effectively starts after a sleep.
Ideally, owners should already have a quiet sleeping area prepared, such as a crate, puppy pen or bed, with a water bowl nearby.
Nutkins explains that the first few hours are overwhelming for dogs, who are suddenly exposed to unfamiliar sounds, smells, furniture and people, often after a stressful journey. Because of this, she advises showing dogs where they can retreat if they need space.
“Ensure they are shown where there is a quiet cozy place to go to if they choose,” she said.
A stock image of a young Boston terrier puppy sleeping in her crate with the door open. There are blankets over the top.
Toys and chew items can be available if the dog shows interest, but Nutkins recommends caution around other pets during feeding or play.
“Ensure no other pets are nearby when you are giving food or toys in case there are resource guarding issues early on,” she said.
She also notes it is common for dogs to appear quiet or “shut down” on day one, depending on their background and personality. Patience is key, and if possible, visitors should be avoided for at least the first week or two.
“All household members should know to let your new dog settle without constantly trying to stroke them, offer them food or toys, encouraging them to play etc as this in itself can be tiring and stressful too!” Nutkins said.
Feeding and Toilet Breaks
Nutkins advises owners to find out what the dog was eating previously and offer familiar food at first.
“Offer food in a bowl or on a plate and leave it to them but you could try being nearby (outside the puppy pen if that’s where they are) in case they feel comfortable with company but if they won’t eat also try leaving them to it to reduce pressure,” she said.
For toilet breaks, she recommends taking the dog into the garden every couple of hours and allowing them to sniff and explore without rushing.
“It’s mostly space and time they need on day one, plus while we observe we are learning what they notice, worry about, like to eat etc,” she said.
The First Night
Nutkins says owners should show their dog where their bed is on the first night, even if that’s earlier than the household’s usual bedtime. Dogs are often exhausted but may struggle to settle due to adrenaline.
She advises leaving them to settle on their own, noting that rescue dogs are typically used to sleeping in darkness.
Day Two: Gentle Routines and No Pressure
Nutkins recommends sticking to normal household routines without overwhelming the dog. That means avoiding leaning over them or immediately encouraging interaction first thing in the morning.
Instead, dogs should be calmly let outside for toilet breaks and given time to sniff before returning indoors for food and water. If there are other pets in the home, interactions should be brief and closely monitored, watching for signs of discomfort.
The rest of the day should focus on allowing the dog to explore their new home at their own pace, with enrichment such as snuffle mats or lick mats offered if they show interest.
Nutkins advises against walks at this stage, explaining that rescue dogs are most likely to panic and slip leads in the first few days. Safe exercise in the garden is a better option.
Dogs may begin to seek interaction on their own terms. When they do, Nutkins suggests responding gently by stroking the chest or side, sitting on the floor and allowing the dog to approach and move away freely.
Rest remains essential, and if owners need to leave the house, Nutkins recommends keeping it brief and placing the dog in a safe, enclosed space where they are less likely to injure themselves if anxious.
Day Three: Early Signs of Confidence
A stock image of a red large dog playing with its owner.
Nutkins says some dogs may start to show small signs of relaxation. This can include stretching out more, lying on their side, vocalizing or engaging with toys.
She explains that having space and time allows dogs to assess their new surroundings without pressure, making them more likely to interact naturally. If a dog is still withdrawn by day three, she stresses this is normal and not a cause for concern.
“Remember it’s only their third day of entire lifestyle changes!” she said. “Continue giving space and time, and you will find they will be able to relax and settle.”
Genuine bonding will follow once they feel safe which can take days, weeks or even months—but the main thing is to ensure they are not pressured into too much too early on
Reference
Thumpkin, Eileen, et al. “Coming Home, Staying Home: Adopters’ Stories about Transitioning Their New Dog into Their Home and Family.” Animals : An Open Access Journal from MDPI, vol. 14, no. 5, Feb. 2024, p. 723. PubMed Central, https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14050723.
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