Chapter 1: The 3-3-3 Rule
In this Lesson
The 3-3-3 Rule is a helpful framework for understanding how dogs adjust during their transition. While every dog and situation is different, this guideline helps set realistic expectations.
Important context: Whether this dog came straight from a shelter (a place with constant barking, no guaranteed food, and no personal space) or from another situation, they may be defensive or overwhelmed. We often don't know much about the dog's history, so proceed with caution and patience.
Your foster may:
Be overwhelmed, shut down, or extra clingy
Sleep a lot or pace a lot
Have accidents in the house
Show limited appetite
Test boundaries
Be unsure about you, new sounds, or your routine
What to do:
Keep things calm and simple
Use a consistent schedule: morning breakfast, potty break, walk, rest, afternoon walk, dinner, potty break, rest
Avoid too much stimulation (visitors, dog parks, group outings)
Let them rest a lot; this is essential
Provide a safe, quiet space (a room with a baby gate works well)
Limit visitors and introductions to other pets