There are also many helpful videos on how to help your new pet decompress and transition into your household. We strongly suggest that you watch a few of them before bringing your new family member home! We’ve provided a link to a couple of them at the bottom of this page that we found helpful, but feel free to check out others!

Why does a dog need to decompress?

Shelters are stressful environments for dogs. The stress a dog experiences in a shelter can greatly impact his mental state. Sounds, smells, and noise in the shelter are very intimidating to pets who have lost their homes. Some dogs walk in the door and shut down completely while other dogs quickly show aggression or cower when they are walked through the kennels.

 Dr. Marcus Smith, DVM says, “A lot of behaviors you see from dogs that have not been properly decompressed are fear, occasional aggression, and submission. Sometimes they will inappropriately urinate any time someone comes near them or tries to touch them, or they will hide.”

Younger dogs, especially puppies, will take less time to decompress than adult dogs. “I usually tell folks you can expect to see the dog coming out of their shell and getting used to their environment and routine within four to six weeks,” says Dr. Smith. “The first week is usually just them being almost self-protective.” Every dog is different; some may take longer to decompress.

Make the transition a smooth and successful one with these professional tips on how to decompress a new rescue dog.

1. Forget expectations

            No matter how much you plan, you will not know how a dog is going to react in their new environment until after you bring them home. “The first 24 to 48 hours will be a learning experience for all, Leave your expectations at the door. Your situation is unique, so don’t compare it to others.

2. Take your time

            It can take on average four to six weeks for your new rescue dog’s personality to surface. Do not expect to get a lot of sleep, don’t expect the pup to be perfect, and don’t expect them to come into their new home exhibiting their true personality. It all takes time. The best thing you can do is go slowly. Your dog and your family will be happier in the long run.

3. Keep calm

            A newly rescued dog needs a calm environment to acclimate. Bringing a new dog to your home takes a lot of trust on both parties. Keep things quiet and calm in your home as much as possible. Every sound, movement, and smell will be new to them. Keep toys and affection to a minimum. Let the dog come to you, less attention is usually better at the beginning. Resist the temptation to shower your dog with affection and toys. The real idea is you want to establish structure. You want a relationship that is founded on respect first and foremost, as well as love and affection –those things should weigh evenly.

4. Give them space

            Dogs are den animals and need a space to feel safe. To help with the transition, give them a space that is quiet, comfortable, and cozy. You are allowing the dog to be comfortable; they are going to be a little self-protective at this point. Give your dog a spot to let them emerge out of their shell of their own accord.

5. Keep them on a leash

            A leashed dog is a must for the safety of your pet and will help keep you stay in control. The leash should essentially become your best friend, the idea is if the dog jumps on the couch, you do not have to grab the dog by the collar. You just simply grab the end of the leash and pull the dog off the couch. This keeps you safe, and it doesn’t run the risk of harming your relationship with the dog.

6. Crate train

            A crate is an easy and effective way to create a safe haven. Crate training is one of the quickest and least stressful ways to encourage desirable behaviors in dogs. Some new dog owners are not fans of using a crate; however, we strongly recommend implementing crate training as soon as you bring a dog into your home. A crate satisfies a dog's instinct to be in a den while alleviating many behavioral issues like resource guarding, separation anxiety, and house-training issues. Covering the crate with a soft breathable blanket gives them a chance to relax and unwind.

7. Slow introductions

            For the first week, keep your dog at home and limit visitors. When it comes time to make introductions to people and other pets, do it slowly. If you have other animals, it’s best to let them get acquainted with the new dog outside your home. Take them on a walk and let them meet on neutral territory; an established dog may feel more territorial in the house. Advise your friends (especially children) to give your new dog “face space.” Ask them to resist the urge to touch or get in their face. Let your dog go to them and pay close attention to how they communicate comfort or discomfort.

8. Exercise them every day

            The adage “a good dog is a tired dog” is true for a reason. Dogs are active creatures. They need a daily exercise routine to keep them physically and mentally healthy. Get the leash and take them for a walk every day to improve you and your dog’s health while establishing a positive bond.

9. Keep a routine

            Dogs are creatures of habit. Their happiness depends on their environment. Dogs need a steady routine, so they know what to expect from their owners and their lives. Their behavior will reflect this accordingly. Once they have a solid structure, they can handle occasional changes like a pro. Feeding, walking, playing, sleeping, and other daily activities can all be a part of your dog’s regularly scheduled routine.

10. Establish positive associations

            It is your job to help your dog form positive associations in their new environment. You want your new dog to feel like their home and all the sights, sounds, and smells that come with it, are the most wonderful things in the world. Keep treats on hand to praise and reward your dog if you are getting ready to vacuum for instance, or if there are other unfamiliar things going on.  Remember that everything is new to a shelter dog.  Your dog will soon associate any unpleasant experiences with that of comfort, affection, and yummy treats.

The Takeaway

Decompression is a key step toward ensuring a successful home transition for your new pet. Time spent getting to know your rescue pup will be well worth the love they give you in return.