Tips for Settling in a Rescue Dog

Congratulations on taking the leap and providing a home to a rescue dog who will soon become part of the family and give you unconditional love

As the owner of rescue dogs, I know it will be challenging for both of you, but please do not give up. It will be worth the patience and understanding as you build a solid and loving bond.

I hope this blog will provide you with lots of friendly advice to make the transition as smooth as possible.

One important tip is to give your dog some time to adjust. These changes can be overwhelming and possibly even a bit scary, so please do not Irish things and be patient with their settling-in process.

Do not rush them. Give them time to settle into their new home, get to know their new family, and feel wanted and secure before trying to take them for a walk.

When you bring your dog home, take them straight to the designated toilet area. Ensure it’s an area where you’re comfortable with them doing their business. Allow them to stay there until they go, and then praise them for their excellent behaviour. Dogs are creatures of habit, so establishing a routine will help them understand where to go.

Consistency is key! Decide on house rules regarding where your dog is allowed and where it isn’t. Ensure everybody in the house follows these rules so your dog knows what’s expected of it.

It’s also essential to maintain your daily routine from the very beginning. While it might be tempting to shower your new rescue dog with lax rules and spontaneous gestures to make them feel wanted, it can unsettle them. Sticking to a regular schedule from the beginning will provide them with stability and security.

It is important to remember that gaining a new rescue dog’s trust and building a loving bond will take time. Be patient and understanding, and provide lots of love and positive reinforcement. Doing this will soon make a loving bond with your new companion, who will feel right at home with you!

Please do not fall into the trap of feeding your dog on demand. It’s natural for their appetite to be slightly erratic initially. However, establishing a regular feeding routine will help them settle in faster.

When you first bring your new family member home, continue to feed them the food they have been used to. Suddenly changing their food can upset their stomach or lead to a small amount of blood in their stools. If you want to transition to a different food, do it gradually over 5-7 days by slowly introducing the new food while decreasing the old one.

It’s important not to let your dog off the lead in open spaces to start with and to work on their recall. Additionally, give your new companion time to get used to your household before introducing them to new people or pets.

Speaking of introducing pets, if you have a cat, it’s best not to teach them immediately. Instead, swap their scents first so your cat and dog can become familiar with each other’s scent. This can help ease the introduction process when the time is right.

After seven days, I recommend taking your dog to your local vet so it can be registered. This also allows you to discuss concerns and have a full health check. When you go to the vet, take any paperwork along, including their vaccination certificate, as it’s important for their records.

Last but not least, when leaving your rescue dog alone in the house, it’s safer not to have them wearing a collar. Collars can get caught on handles or other objects, potentially leading to injuries or even worse. So, make sure to remove their collar before leaving them alone.

Essential Preparation for Settling in a Rescue Dog.

It is important to be prepared and to create a safe and comfortable environment for your new rescue dog.

Creating a safe space

Creating a designated safe space for your rescue dog is crucial, especially for dogs coming from overseas who may have had a long, stressful journey. This safe space should be in a quiet area of your home, away from heavy foot traffic and loud noises, such as a spare room or a calm living room corner.

A cosy crate can be particularly effective for decompression, as it provides a den-like environment where your dog can feel secure.

Line the crate with soft bedding and consider draping a blanket over it to create a sense of calm, leaving the front open for ventilation. Remember, their senses are likely overloaded with unfamiliar sights, sounds, and smells, so keeping this area quiet and predictable is essential. Allow your dog to explore their safe space at their own pace, and avoid forcing interaction until they’re ready. This decompression period gives your dog the time to process their new environment and build trust.

Securing Your Home

Ensuring your home is secure is vital when bringing a new dog into your life. Particularly one who may be scared or anxious in their unfamiliar surroundings.

Front Door:
The front door is another high-risk escape point, especially when your new dog is still settling in and may be fearful or skittish. If you don’t have an inner lobby, consider installing a gate across the hall to act as a barrier. This makes it much harder for your dog to dart between your legs and out the door when it’s open. A moment’s distraction could lead to a dangerous situation, so taking these precautions is essential for their safety.

Back Garden:
Check your fencing thoroughly for any holes, no matter how small. Dogs , can easily turn a tiny gap into an escape route. It’s also important to remove any objects near the fence that your dog could use as a launching point to jump over. Secure any back gates by ensuring they can’t be crawled under—adding chicken wire or similar barriers can provide extra peace of mind.

By securing your back garden and front door, you’re creating a safe, controlled environment for your new dog to adjust and thrive.

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Pet-Proofing

When bringing a new dog into your home, ensuring their environment is safe and secure is essential. Dogs, especially curious or anxious ones, can be drawn to items that seem harmless to us but pose a risk to their health. Everyday objects like remote controls, mobile phones, and children’s toys may tempt a curious nibble, leading to potential harm from swallowed small parts or toxic materials.

To avoid accidents, always keep valuables and potential hazards out of reach. Store these items in drawers, on high shelves, or in rooms where your dog doesn’t have access. Being proactive protects your belongings and keeps your dog safe from accidental ingestion or injury. A little prevention goes a long way in creating a safe, happy environment for your furry friend!

Choosing the Right Gate

Using some pet gate to restrict access to certain areas of your home is a good idea, especially if you have a home office or similar with lots of dangerous cables, etc. You must use a gate designed for dogs rather than children. Dog gates are typically higher and more secure, preventing unwanted escapes or accidents.

Managing Housetraining

Rescue dogs may take time to adjust to their new surroundings and establish housetraining. In case of accidents, it can be beneficial to temporarily remove rugs or other items that may be difficult to clean. This will make the clean-up more manageable and prevent any lingering odours.

Dealing with Accidents

When accidents happen, it’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals to clean up the mess, as these can be overwhelming for your dog and may not effectively remove the scent. Male dogs, in particular, leave their scent when they have accidents, which can be a natural part of their settling-in process. Start by gently cleaning the area with a clean, damp cloth to remove the immediate mess. Later, you can clean the spot more thoroughly with pet-safe cleaners or a solution of white vinegar and water. Over time, as your dog becomes more relaxed and feels at home, their urge to mark the area will naturally diminish.

Establishing Routine

As your rescue dog becomes more comfortable and settles into its new home, its urge to mark territory will fade. Establishing a routine with regular feeding times, walks, and bathroom breaks will help your dog adjust and improve its house training.

Essential Equipment for Your Rescue Dog.

Quality Food

Always do your homework about food. Good quality food will be beneficial to your dog’s health and coat. Research the food you plan to buy at All About Dog Food.

Despite the widespread belief that dogs can thrive on a monotonous diet, they enjoy and benefit from having a variety in their meals. Additionally, be mindful of the treats you give them. Opt for colourant-free options and use them sparingly to avoid digestive issues.

Stoneware Water Bowl

When choosing a water bowl for your rescue dog, a good-sized stoneware bowl is highly recommended. Stoneware is durable, keeps water cooler for longer periods—especially beneficial during warm summer days—and is much harder to tip over compared to lighter materials. This stability ensures your dog stays hydrated without messy spills, which is particularly important during hot weather when they need consistent access to fresh water.

Food Bowl, Toys, and Grooming Essentials

Rather than feeding my rescue dogs from a traditional bowl, I use their daily food allowance for activities that keep them mentally stimulated and engaged. Scatter feeding, puzzle toys, and training sessions turn mealtimes into opportunities for enrichment, helping to challenge their minds and reduce stress.

A good-quality brush is another essential. Daily grooming not only helps maintain a healthy, shiny coat but also provides a wonderful bonding opportunity. Regular brushing removes dead hair, keeping your dog cool in the summer and comfortable all year round. It’s a simple yet effective way to show care and strengthen your connection with your rescue dog.

‘H’ Type Harness:

When selecting a harness for your dog, we highly recommend the ‘H’ type harness with a back loop. This design offers excellent security by fitting snugly around your dog’s body, reducing the risk of it slipping out. It also provides better control during walks, especially for dogs who are reactive or tend to pull.

Avoiding figure-eight harnesses that fasten at the shoulders. These harnesses often don’t distribute pressure evenly, making it easier for dogs to wiggle free, especially if they get spooked or excited.

Collar and Lead Options

Invest in a high-quality collar with a secure buckle that fits your dog comfortably and safely. Alongside the collar, consider a double-ended training lead and a harness with both front and rear loops. This combination provides greater control and flexibility during walks, which is particularly helpful when managing a rescue dog that may be nervous or reactive.

It’s important to avoid using flexi leads, as they can cause a range of issues, including reduced control, entanglement risks, and the potential for injuries to both you and your dog. Investing in proper walking equipment ensures safer and more enjoyable outings for you and your rescue dog..

Training Lines

Training lines can be instrumental, especially during the initial stages of training and when teaching your rescue dog to recall commands. They provide freedom while keeping your dog safe and under control.

Comfortable Bed

Beds needn’t be expensive. You can get a duvet to provide your rescue dog with a comfortable sleeping space. Gradually, you can buy a suitable bed once you understand their size and preferences. Just like humans, dogs love to be able to stretch out when they are relaxing, believe me. It is incredible how big they can suddenly become

Identity Tag for your rescue dog

ID Tags: A Priority for Safety

One of the first steps when bringing your rescue dog home is ensuring they have a proper ID tag with your current contact details. You can order one in advance or get it done immediately after your dog’s arrival. The ID tag should include essential information such as your name, address, mobile number, and, if applicable, a landline number.or get it done immediately after your dog arrives

Important Note: Avoid putting your dog’s name on the tag. While it might seem like a personal touch, this can pose a security risk, as a stranger could use your dog’s name to lure them away or claim ownership. Keeping the tag limited to contact information helps protect your dog from theft or misuse.

Microchip Transfer: Making It Official

Many rescue centres provide microchipped dogs, but the chip will still be registered to the rescue organisation when you bring your dog home. Transferring the microchip details to your name is a crucial step to ensure you’re listed as the legal owner and that your contact information is up to date.

Steps for Transferring the Microchip:

1. Wait for the Transition Period: Rescue centres typically recommend waiting about two weeks after bringing your dog home before starting the microchip transfer. This delay lets your dog settle in and ensures all necessary paperwork from the rescue organisation is complete.
2. Contact the Microchip Provider: The rescue centre should provide you with the microchip number and provider details (such as Petlog or Animal Tracker). Contact the provider directly to begin the transfer process.
3. Update Your Information: Follow the provider’s instructions to register your name, address, and contact details as the new owner. This might involve an online form or mailing paperwork.

The Importance of Dual Identification

While the microchip transfer process is underway, it’s vital to rely on the physical ID tag for immediate identification. If your rescue dog gets lost, the ID tag provides an easy way for someone to contact you without needing a microchip scanner.

By ensuring the ID tag and microchip details are up to date, you provide your dog with the best chance of being safely returned to you in case they wander off or get lost. These small steps go a long way in ensuring their safety and your peace of mind.

Introducing Rescue Dogs to Existing Dogs.

If you have a resident dog, it’s important to be cautious when introducing them to your new rescue dog. Remove toys and chews from the shared space for a few weeks or until you’re confident they are comfortable with each other. These items can trigger arguments, especially during the initial stages of getting to know each other.

Common Causes of Arguments

Arguments between dogs in the early stages of introduction are often caused by jealousy, possessiveness of toys, or guarding of food or personal space. Therefore, it’s crucial to give extra attention to your resident dog and allow your new dog to settle in slowly.

Giving Individual Attention

If your resident dog feels left out and seeks attention while you’re bonding with your new rescue dog, make sure to switch your focus to them. This helps reinforce their importance and ensures they don’t feel neglected. Establishing and prioritising their territory can also help ease the transition.

Separate Feeding Bowls and Treat Sessions

To avoid any potential conflicts during mealtime, place the feeding bowls of your resident dog and the rescue dog well apart. Be present during feeding to monitor their behaviour and ensure they eat in peace. Additionally, treat-sharing sessions can help foster respect for each other’s space. Call your original dog by name, have them sit, and give them a treat while making sure the new dog doesn’t rush forward. Repeat the process with the rescue dog.

Engaging Games to Play with Your Rescue Dog.

Playing games with your rescue dog is a fun way to bond and provides mental stimulation and physical exercise. However, choosing the right games that promote a healthy and balanced relationship without encouraging challenging behaviour is essential.

Fetch and Retrieve

Playing fetch with a suitable dog-friendly ball (not a Tennis ball, as these are unsafe) or a favourite toy is a classic game that dogs love. It provides physical exercise and reinforces obedience and a sense of deference. Start by teaching your rescue dog to retrieve the item and bring it back to you. Reward them with praise and treats when they complete the task.

Frisbee Fun

If your rescue dog is high-energy and enjoys chasing objects, playing Frisbee can be a great game to engage them. Be sure to use a dog-friendly Frisbee that is safe for their teeth. Start with short throws and gradually increase the distance as your dog becomes more adept at catching and returning the Frisbee to you.

Hide and Seek: A Fun and Stimulating Game for Your Rescue Dog

Hide and Seek is an excellent game to engage your rescue dog’s mind while strengthening your bond. Start by selecting something that motivates your dog—this could be their favourite toy, a treat, or even a scent item. Then, depending on your dog’s confidence level, hide the chosen object in easy-to-find locations around the house or garden.

Encourage your dog to search by giving gentle prompts or guiding them to the area. As they sniff out the hidden item, their sense of smell is activated, providing enriching mental stimulation. Each successful find builds your dog’s confidence and deepens their trust in you as a source of guidance and fun.

Conclusion

Interactive games are a powerful way to provide mental and physical stimulation for your rescue dog while strengthening your relationship. Focus on cooperative and rewarding activities like fetch, hide-and-seek, or Frisbee, which encourage trust and teamwork.

Avoid overly combative or dominance-based play, as these can cause confusion or anxiety, especially for a rescue dog. Instead, incorporate games that reward good behaviour, foster obedience, and promote a positive power balance in your relationship.

With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you and your rescue dog can share a lifetime of engaging and enjoyable games that enrich both your lives.

Register your new rescue with a local vet.

Start by asking for recommendations from other dog owners in your area. Fellow pet owners often have firsthand experience and can provide insight into which vets are known for their expertise, compassion, and reliability. Local dog walkers are also excellent sources of information, as they frequently interact with a range of clients and hear about the reputation of different veterinary practices.

Take the time to visit the vet’s practice if possible. Look for:

• A clean and welcoming environment.
• Staff who are friendly, knowledgeable, and approachable.
• Extended or emergency hours for added convenience.

A vet familiar with rescue dogs can be particularly helpful. They will will understand the unique challenges and potential health concerns these dogs may face, such as stress-related conditions or incomplete medical histories..

important Numbers to Have on Hand

Beyond your local vet, there are several key numbers you should keep accessible in case of emergencies:

1. Poison Control Helpline for Pets
   • Animal PoisonLine (UK): 01202 509000
   • This service provides 24/7 advice on what to do if your dog ingests something potentially harmful, such as chocolate, medications, or household chemicals.
2. Out-of-Hours Veterinary Services
   • Ask your chosen vet for the contact details of their emergency out-of-hours provider. Many vets partner with local animal hospitals to ensure round-the-clock care.
3. Pet Insurance Helpline
   • If you have pet insurance, keep their emergency number handy. Some providers offer advice lines or can guide you on next steps during an incident.
4. Microchip Provider
   • Ensure you have the contact details of the microchip database, as you may need to update your contact information or report your dog missing.
5. Rescue Organisation
   • Keep the number of the rescue centre where you adopted your dog. They may be able to offer additional advice or support, especially in the early days.

Name your dog.

Your rescue dog will likely come with a name which you may or may not love. It’s a good idea to keep their original name whenever possible, as it can provide a sense of familiarity during their transition. However, if you change it, rest assured that dogs adapt quickly to new names. The same goes for nicknames—they’ll soon associate these with your tone and affection, making the adjustment seamless.

Rescue dog socialising and training.

When socialising with your dog, it is essential to take it slowly, and you may wish to seek professional help from a dog trainer or something similar.

Introducing New People to Your Dog.

• Restricting the number of strangers your new rescue dog meets in the first few days is essential.
• Remember that your new rescue is feeling overwhelmed, stressed and a bit scared due to all the changes they have no control over. Introductions to friends, family, and neighbours must be delayed until the dog has had a chance to settle in and, even then, is taken slowly.
• Don’t allow visitors to get your new dog over-excited, as these will reach beyond their control.
• Keep your voice low and calm during these meetings
• When meeting new people, give them some treats to offer your new canine friend.
• It is advisable to have the ‘dog on a lead when meeting new people for the first time. This means they can easily be removed if you or your dog are unhappy.
• Ensure that visitors are relaxed and that you convey confidence.
• Allow your dog to approach them in their own time and sniff the visitor. Don’t let your visitors go straight up to them as this will scare them and could lead to problems.
• If your visitor seems uneasy or tense, wait until they are more relaxed and ready to meet your dog. This will prevent any possible problems or your dog from feeling threatened.
• Carefully watch your dog for any signs that it is not comfortable with the situation. This could be licking its lips or nose, turning its head away, etc. While some dogs love meeting new people, others feel overwhelmed and stressed, so paying attention to any signs is important.

It is important not to let your dog jump up at people. Teach your dog the “off” command from the start.

Dogs and children.

Ensure you never leave a child alone with your new dog or any dog. Children can do nasty things to get a reaction from dogs (and other children).

Teach your own and visiting children about dogs.

Children and dogs can mix well, and even rescue dogs that may not have been around kids before. However, it is important to teach kids that dogs are living creatures just like humans and not toys and to ensure they act appropriately around them.

• How do you approach a dog? For example, do you not rush up, scream at, or pester them?
• Never annoy or mistreat a dog.
• Avoid jumping on or roughhousing with dogs.
• Dogs communicate through nipping when overexcited, so understand this behaviour is normal.
• Dogs may growl if they are afraid, which is their way of communicating and not an act of aggression.
• Do not allow a child to walk a dog alone—even if your dog is well-behaved, they may encounter a cat crossing the road or a too-energetic dog that is not on the lead.

Quick overview with regards to settling in a rescue dog

• Set reasonable expectations for your new dog and its progress.
• Allow your new dog plenty of time to adjust to their new environment, routine, and family.
• Refrain from making strong judgments or sweeping statements about your dog’s behaviour or personality. Every dog is unique and may require different approaches.
• Understand that a proper understanding of dogs comes from experience with a wide range of canine companions, so don’t jump to conclusions too quickly.
• Remember that a dog’s adjustment can take weeks or months, so be patient and give it the time it needs.
• Remember to be there for your dog, providing them with love, care, and support. They will quickly become a lifelong friend and companion.
• Appreciate that no one else will greet you with as much enthusiasm, genuine love, and loyalty as your dog.

How I Can Support You and Your Rescue Dog

Bringing a rescue dog into your home is a wonderful journey, but it can also come with unique challenges. That’s where I come in. My services are designed to ease the transition and set you and your dog up for success. Here’s how I can help:

Pre-Arrival Guidance

Preparing your home before your dog arrives is essential for their safety and comfort. I provide personalised consultations to help you:

• Design a secure and welcoming space.
• Select the right tools, like crates and stair gates.
• Understand the best practices for creating a calming environment.

Whether you’re choosing between harnesses or wondering how to introduce your new pet to existing family members, I’ll provide tailored advice at every step.

Equipment Recommendations

Finding the perfect gear for your rescue dog can feel overwhelming, especially if they’re nervous or reactive. I’ll help you identify:

• Secure, escape-proof harnesses.
• Leads that give you control while keeping your dog comfortable.
• Other essentials like ID tags, collars, or safety lights for winter walks.

With my guidance, you’ll feel confident your dog has the right equipment to stay safe and comfortable.

Access to Trusted Behavioural Resources

Rescue dogs often need extra support to overcome fear or anxiety. I can connect you with experienced trainers or behaviourists specialising in building confidence and addressing behavioural challenges.
Starting early with the right resources ensures your dog can thrive in their new environment.

Tailored Solo Walks

For nervous dogs or those not ready for busy parks, I offer solo walks catering to their needs. These walks are:

• Conducted in quiet, controlled settings to reduce stress.
• Designed to build trust, confidence, and positive associations with the outdoors.
• Adapted to your dog’s pace and comfort level.

Whether your dog needs a gentle introduction to walks or ongoing support, these sessions provide a safe and positive experience.

By being a reliable resource for you and your dog. I aim to make the transition smoother and ensure you enjoy this exciting new chapter together.

Let’s Work Together

No two rescue dogs are the same. This whymy goal is to provide personalised care that meets your dog’s unique needs. I’m here to assist if you’d like help preparing for your new arrival or ongoing support as your dog settles in. Let’s make this transition as seamless and joyful as possible!

Other blog posts you may be interested in

• Training and Socialising Walks for Rescue Dogs
• Taking in a rescue dog, things to consider
• How To Settle In Your New Pupp
• Working from home with the dogs
• Leads and Harnesses
• Prepare for a rescue dog