The 3-3-3 rule for acclimatizing adoptable dogs - a gentle arrival, a safe start

The first 3 days - rest, security, observation

In the first 72 hours, many dogs are overstimulated or frightened. Goal: give the dog security and avoid overstimulation.

Practical tips

• Create a quiet retreat (bed, blanket, separate room if necessary).
• Limit visitors, loud noises and frequent changes of location.
• Feed familiar food from the shelter if possible - avoid abrupt food changes.
• Short, positive contact instead of prolonged petting; let the dog choose its own proximity.
• Avoid immediately enforcing "house rules" in all areas - set priorities.

The next 3 weeks - orientation, small routines, bonding

Now begins the phase in which the dog explores its environment and builds its first relationships. Routines provide security.

Pay attention to what?

• Introduce regular feeding and walking times.
• Short, positive training sessions (5-10 minutes) for basic commands.
• Build up social contacts slowly and in a controlled manner (suitable dogs, familiar people).
• Reinforce routines for sleeping, toilet times and attention.
• Pay attention to stress signals (yawning, licking, appeasement, retreat) and allow retreat.

The following 3 months - development, training, fine-tuning

In the three months following adoption, behaviour stabilizes. This is where long-term trust is established and problematic behavior is addressed.

Recommendations

• Consistent but gentle training: positive reinforcement before punishment.
• Appropriate exercise and mental exercise (intelligence toys, nose work).
• In the event of behavioral problems: seek professional help (trainer/behavioral therapist) at an early stage.
• Patience: Relapses are normal - progress is often gradual.

Common misunderstandings about the 3-3-3 rule

• "My dog has to be perfect after 3 weeks " - Wrong. It's a guideline; some dogs need longer.
• "Punishments speed up acclimatization " - No. Punishments damage trust and increase stress.
• "Immediate full social life " - Avoid excessive demands; build up contact gradually.

Specific checklist for day 1, week 1 and month 1-3

Day 1-3 (immediately)

• Set up a quiet retreat
• Provide food and water (familiar brand if possible)
• Put on lead and collar, briefly show familiar surroundings
• Few visitors, lots of rest
• Vet appointment Plan within the first 1-2 weeks (checks, vaccination status)

Week 1-3

• Establish routines (feeding, walking)
• Start short, positive training sessions
• Slowly get used to being alone (short increases)
• Observe: Food, droppings, sleep, interaction

Month 1-3

• Targeted training (leash training, basic commands)
• Expand socialization (controlled meetings)
• Integrate mental exercise
• If problems persist: Consult a behavioral expert

If something goes wrong - when to get help?

Get expert help if you observe any of the following:

• Severe withdrawal or increased aggression
• Repeated, extreme anxiety in response to everyday stimuli
• Changes in eating/feeding over several days
• No progress despite patient, consistent work

Veterinarians, qualified dog trainers or behavioral therapists are the right people to contact. Early intervention prevents problems from becoming entrenched.

Case studies (short)