Welcoming a New Dog
Welcoming a new dog into your home is an exciting and meaningful experience, but it also comes with a period of transition. Whether you have adopted a rescue or brought home a puppy, the first few days and weeks are critical for building trust, creating structure, and helping your dog feel safe. This tag offers guidance to help you prepare and navigate those early moments with empathy and clarity.
You will find resources on the 3-3-3 rule, which outlines what dogs typically experience in the first three days, three weeks, and three months after arriving in a new environment. We also share advice on decompression, setting up routines, and introducing your dog to new surroundings in a way that reduces stress and confusion.
At Belle & Bark, we take a trauma-informed and relationship-focused approach to welcoming new dogs. Our articles highlight how to build trust slowly, respect your dog’s pace, and avoid overwhelming them during the early stages of settling in. Topics include bonding games, environmental management, and understanding common behaviours like pacing, hiding, or vocalizing.
Whether you are welcoming a young dog or supporting an adult with an unknown history, the first steps you take will set the tone for your long-term relationship. Explore this tag for thoughtful strategies that support emotional safety, confidence, and lasting connection.
