The 3-3-3 Rule helps adopters understand the timeline for a rescue dog’s adjustment: 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to learn routines, and 3 months to feel fully at home.
This guide explains each stage, shares real-life stories, and offers tips to help you avoid common mistakes.
Download my free From Rescue to Home: Survival Kit for step-by-step help.
Or if you’re a rescue/shelter, grab the 3-3-3 graphics and adoption handbook templates for your organization.
What is the 3-3-3 Rule for Dogs?
The 3-3-3 rule is a general guideline that represents the phases of a rescue dog or common milestones your new dog will go through… it is the first 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months after bringing your dog home from the shelter.
The 3-3-3 rule is sometimes referred to as the “rescue dog honeymoon period.”
If you’ve ever started a new job or moved to a new school, you know the feeling of being in an unfamiliar place, new surroundings, new people, and new rules. This is how your dog feels as they adjust to their new home.
The 3 Stages of the 3-3-3 Rule
Please note that this is a guideline. The time your dog needs to adjust is as unique as they are.
Here’s what those first 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months look like in real life…
3 Days: Decompression
Your dog is likely overwhelmed, nervous, and unsure. Don’t expect too much right away. They might not eat or drink much and could be scared or unsure about their new environment.
Due to the stress, potty accidents may occur. During this time, they might hide or be very cautious around you and your family. Alternatively, they might test boundaries to see what they can get away with, similar to a teenager.
- Feeling overwhelmed
- Maybe scared and unsure of what is going on
- Not comfortable enough to be “themself”
- May not want to eat or drink
- Shut down and wants to curl up in his crate or hide under a table
- Testing the boundaries
3 Weeks: Learning the Routine
By now, your dog will typically start to settle in, feeling a little more comfortable and beginning to understand their new routine. They may start to show their true personality and begin to trust you more.
- Starting to settle in
- Feeling more comfortable
- Realizing this could possibly be their forever home
- Figured out their environment
- Getting into a routine
- Let their guard down and may start showing their true personality
- Behavior issues may start showing up
3 Months: Feeling at Home
This is when transformation shines. Your dog may start to trust you and feel secure in their new home. They may begin to settle into a routine and become comfortable with their environment.
This period is when you will see your dog’s true personality and begin to build a deeper bond.
- Finally, completely comfortable in his home.
- Building trust and a true bond
- Gained a complete sense of security with his new family
- Set in a routine
Adjusting to the Timeline
Remember, these timelines are general guidelines. Every dog is unique, and some may take longer to adjust. It’s important to be patient and not rush the process.
If your dog takes 6, 8, or even 12 months to fully adjust, that’s completely normal. The key is to provide a consistent, loving environment and celebrate the small victories along the way.
Your understanding and support during these phases are crucial in helping your rescue dog feel at home and begin to thrive.
Enjoy your newly adopted dog, give them love, support, and time, and they will soon become your best friend!
Common Mistakes Adopters Make
- Expecting their dog to be “normal” instantly.
- Flooding them with too many new people, places, or dogs.
- Initially, letting rules slide, then trying to enforce them later.
- Ignoring subtle stress signals (panting, pacing, avoidance).
Tips for Success
- Stick to the 3-3-3 timeline as a guideline, not a rigid rule. Every dog adjusts at their own pace.
- Focus on structure and bonding over tricks or obedience in the first weeks.
- Use enrichment games and confidence-building activities to help anxious dogs.
- Be patient. Progress isn’t always linear, but the payoff is huge.
Want a step-by-step plan for those first weeks and months? Download my free Rescue to Home Survival Kit… It’s packed with tips, checklists, and resources to help you and your new dog thrive together.
For Rescues & Shelters
I love that rescues and humane societies want to share the 3-3-3 Rule… it’s such a powerful tool to set adopters up for success. But instead of recreating the wheel (and risking incorrect info), you can get:
- The official 3-3-3 graphics for commercial use
- Or the complete Dog Adoption Handbook Template Pack, which includes the 3-3-3 Rule and so much more for your adopters
Click here to get the 3-3-3 Rule graphics and adoption templates.
How to Share This Graphic
Rescues & shelters: I love it when organizations use the 3-3-3 Rule to educate adopters. Please do not recreate or alter this graphic.
You are welcome to share it on your website or social media, provided you attribute the content and include a link back to this page.
If you’d like to use it in printed materials or adoption packets, please purchase the official 3-3-3 graphics for commercial use or the full Dog Adoption Handbook Template Pack.
Together, we can make sure every adopter understands what their new dog needs to succeed.
The Origin of the 3-3-3 Rule
The 3-3-3 Rule was originally created over 15 years ago by Sue Kroyer, a long-time rescuer who ran the Cocker Connection Rescue in Los Angeles. She shared it with discouraged adopters to give them a perspective on what to expect.
Years later, I (Debi McKee, Rescue Dogs 101) designed the now well-known 3-3-3 graphic and wrote one of the first comprehensive blog posts explaining the rule in detail. That visual made the 3-3-3 Rule easy to share… and it quickly spread across the internet.
So while Sue is the originator of the concept, I’m grateful to have helped bring it to life visually and make it accessible to adopters and rescues worldwide.
FAQs About the 3-3-3 Rule
How long will it take MY rescue dog to adjust?
The honest answer is, it depends. Some dogs will follow the 3-3-3 rule to the letter, while others may take 6 months or a full year to feel completely comfortable.
Keep in mind that the 3-3-3 dog rule is a general guideline. It will depend on the situation the dog was surrendered, the dog’s personality, and their background.
What can I do to help my rescue dog adjust faster?
Patience is key, but there are ways to support your dog. Keep routines predictable, offer a safe space, use calm and positive reinforcement, and avoid overwhelming them with too many new experiences at once. Small, consistent steps build trust faster than rushing things.
Should I follow the 3-3-3 Rule exactly?
The 3-3-3 Rule is a guideline, not a strict formula. Every dog is different. Some may breeze through in a matter of weeks, while others may need many months. Use the rule as a framework to set expectations, but always follow your dog’s pace.
What if my dog isn’t improving after 3 months?
Don’t panic… many rescue dogs take 6 months to a year to feel fully settled. If your dog still appears anxious, consider consulting a trainer or veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues. Progress may be slower, but with consistency and patience, most dogs come around.
Final Thoughts
I encourage you to take it slow. I know it’s exciting to get a new dog, but see life through your dog’s eyes…
They have been through a lot, they may have lost their family, possibly been abused, or abandoned in a noisy shelter, … it’s all very stressful. Your dog needs time, so give it to them.
Remember, the 3-3-3 dog rule is a general guideline. Your dog will go at their own pace during this “honeymoon period”; it could take 4, 5, or maybe even 6 months.
Each dog is unique. Just be there for them, comfort them when they need it, and create a positive, safe environment, and you will be on your way to raising your perfect dog.
Whether you’re an adopter or an organization, please share this message — but do it with proper credit and accurate information. That’s how we help more dogs find and stay in their forever homes.
I rescued a 7 month old beagle mix 1 month ago. She is sweet and I was told that she likes to chew things but she is destroying things in record pace. She doesn't destroy furniture or things but any toys or crate beds that are given to her are torn apart pretty quickly. I have her in training and she has had 1 session so far. I was told to distract her when she does this but that doesn't work. Is this something that she could outgrow? I don't
Most puppies will outgrow the chewing phase. But at 7 months she should be reaching the end of that phase. I would use a play pen when you can not supervise 100% and even a long leash while you are around the house to prevent any issues.
Hello!
We have had our rescue dog for 2 months now. She has bonded more quickly with myself but not as much with my husband, although she has gotten better. She gets excited when he gets home from work but shies away from him. Will this get better? She is still not 100 percent with me elither. At the vet last week I believe she was really scared and Nipped at the vet . She is a very gentle dog and does not display aggresive behavior. Is that normal?
Thank you,
It’s all very normal. Remain patient. Have your husband feed her one of her meals and take her for walks. As for the vet, it’s most likely it was all out of fear. Vets office visits are stressful for most dogs. Your vet should be willing to take it slow with her, understanding that she is still transitioning to her new home.
Question, we got a rescue recently, she was over friendly, jumping in my husband’s lap while in his chair, my husband was getting out of chair, a recliner, the dog may have twisted his leg, now he won’t go near my husband and cowards away from him . Do you think he will get past this?
Yes, have your husband spend some time bonding with the dog. Read How to Bond with Your Dog. And work on associating the chair as a positive item so she is not scared of it. Hopefully she is physically okay!
I have had my rescue for 2 weeks now (husky/shepherd mix) and she’s really testing her boundaries so this is a useful guide. It’s clear she’s also never been in a home before and was a street dog, so it’s been difficult dealing with her pent up energy since she’s still afraid of the leash. She is extremely loving though and a kind soul. She’s really bonded with me and always wants me to play, which is a bit difficult now that I’m dealing with that attention seeking!
A new situation came up though and my sister in law was rescuing a dog but she suffered a recent trauma that means she won’t be able to care for it for a bit as she is hospitalized. The dog is already being transported and was scheduled to arrive soon. The dog is male and is said to be friendly with other dogs. Could I take this dog (separating the dogs at first) or does this spell extreme trouble?
It’s possible, but will add a layer of complexity for sure. You will need to be on your A game and be watchful for signs of stress in both dogs. Separate is important, have you read The Best Way to Introduce a Second Dog Into Your Pack?
So appreciate the above information. Inherited Daisy: a lab mix, 35 pounds, 3 years old , from a foster parent. Been with me for only 3 days: a true challenge. Yet your insight gives makes me more comfortable to see what Daisy is doing and her behavior is normal. Thank you
Is the 3 Days, 3 Weeks, 3 Months graphic available in Spanish? Thanks
It is not at this time, but I’d be happy to create it in Spanish if you were able to translate it.
Hi! Thanks for this info. I’m planning on sending my new dog to day care a couple times per week. How long should I wait before I send him? Right now, he’s a little unsure and is testing boundaries.
He’s a year old and was fostered with another dog (only for two weeks.. before that he was a stray). His foster said they wrestled basically all the time unless they were crated. I want to make sure I’m giving him an appropriate outlet for his puppy energy, but not overwhelming him.
Thanks for your help!
Thanks for your response, the yorkie has definitely bonded with me and let’s me do anything with her regards physio, grooming, applying protective footwear etc. and she follows me everywhere. I have sought advice and had mixed reactions but many have said some dogs just don’t like others for no obvious reasons (just like people). My main concerns are in no particular order:-
1) The effect this is having on our resident dog, she is so sweet & patient with everything and I don’t want her personality to change. Realistically it could mean she will no longer be able to have her doggy friends in any more due to this little ones reactions.
2) The little yorkie although has been through a lot and has medication she is doing brilliantly. She is with us 24/7 and is great at grasping routine and making her needs known. I continually communicate with vet nurse who fostered her from day she was found. We have talked long before and since we took her on so I know everything she did with her and her great progress is confirmed.
3) I do not want her to bond further if realistically it is not going to improve.
4) My husbands diagnosis has come as a shock. I have big family and I will need to help with my husband as his condition deteriorates. The road ahead with him will not be easy so it may be unfair for this little dog to have to cope with everyone coming and going if she has a jealous streak.
5) She is amazing and so loving but would she be better as an only dog lavished with 1:1 attention she wants and deserves? She is so tiny maybe she would be better with another yorkie as she is too delicate to mix with bigger dogs even on walks due to her injury?
6) I am fearful the yorkie will bite a child &/or maybe my older dogs patience will break.
7) I know I will be riddled with guilt whatever I do. When or what is a decider? I want what’s best for all.
I hate to say it, but it sounds to me that you know the answer in your heart. You have a rocky road ahead with your husband, I can’t image how heartbreaking that is for you all. Have you talked to the vet nurse for her opinion?
Hi Debi, my husband and I are both retired, home all day and have had dogs all our lives including rescue. We currently have an active 10 yr old west/toy poodle spayed female owned from pup who is very sociable and biddable and welcomes all dogs people and children to our house without exception, she is not demanding of attention at all but loves to politely say hello to everyone. 4 weeks ago we took in a 3-5 yr old (estimated) tiny stray yorkie who is recovering from a spinal op after being found paralysed from waist down, 3 months post op she is able to walk albeit very wobbly and is slowly regaining control of her bodily functions. She is adorable, very loving, bold and determined but despite careful introduction and our dogs gentle nature she is very snappy to our dog if she seeks any form of attention from anyone. Our dog never reacts and just moves away. I have resolved this with us by being alpha, giving them equal attention and using a firm no and withdrawing attention when the yorkie snaps, only allowing her back into interaction when she stops and accepts the other dog being petted. However we have introduced the yorkie very slowly to new things and she is fine but still terrible when we meet people or family visit and our dog wants to say hello to anyone. The yorkie is fine with our dog indoors, eating together, walking together on and off lead all of which is great for encouraging the yorkies mobility but our dog is becoming very sad and depressed at being unable to say hello to anyone. The yorkie has snapped at two people who stroked our dog and I am worried about my grandchildren when lockdown eases. Now added to this my husband has been diagnosed with early stages of Alzheimer’s/vascular dementia mixed. I love this little yorkie and don’t want to let her down but i have to do what’s best for both dogs. Please advise x
It sounds like the yorkies behavior is fear or maybe even pain based? 4 weeks is still pretty early in her adjustment period. Hard to say for sure, but I’d guess she’d gain confidence and trust in you over the next couple months or so. I agree your family and what is best for dogs is priority. Is it possible to talk to an experienced dog behaviorist? They may be able to offer some insight.
Debi-
My husband and I (we are both retired) are in the process of adopting an almost 2 year old Shih Tzu from our local Humane Society. He has already lived in 2 different homes. We are experienced pet owners, but always with larger dogs, we are kind of nervous about having this little guy. If it were just us and our GSP, who stays outside in a kennel, I wouldn’t be so uncertain. My “problem” is our daughter and her 90lb, 4 year old Weim! They have been coming to our house every weekend since Covid began. He is a good boy, but he is Alpha in their little family and she has taught him nothing about obedience (nor let us)!
I have read your 3-3-3 article and I saw a few more articles I plan to read.
My daughter is absolutely awesome!! She is divorced, no kids, and a social worker. She is all about research and is who found the article I just read. So…my question is, how do I attempt to get our little guy and our big guy together without he big one eating our little?
We love our daughter very much & I don’t want a new dog to hurt our relationship!
Any advice?
Thank you!!
New Shih Tzu mom
Thats a tough one. I’d allow the new dog to adjust to his new home for at least a couple weeks first. And of course, It would be easier the the Weim had some basic obedience 🙂 Slow introductions. Take them for a walk together outside, short meetings outside before inside. Read The Best Way to Introduce a Second Dog Into Your Pack