Adopting a rescue dog is one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. But let’s be real… it’s not always the smooth “happily-ever-after” story we imagine.
Rescue dogs often come with their challenges, and without realizing it, you might be making mistakes that make life harder for both of you.
But don’t worry! In this post, I’ll walk you through the 5 most common mistakes new rescue dog owners make, and how to fix them.
If you’d rather watch, check out my video where I dive deeper into each of these mistakes!
Mistake 1: Unrealistic Expectations
It’s easy to dream about bringing home your rescue dog and immediately living your best lives together… long walks, trips to the dog park, and endless snuggle sessions.
But here’s the truth: most rescue dogs come from difficult or unknown backgrounds. They’ve been through a lot before finding their way to you. And let’s face it, they don’t even know this is their forever home yet.
They might be overwhelmed, scared, or unsure about their new environment. Be patient and follow the 3-3-3 rule.
Create a safe space for your dog, like a cozy crate or a quiet room, where they can retreat whenever they feel overwhelmed.
Mistake 2: Overwhelming Your Dog with Too Much Too Soon
When you bring your dog home, it’s natural to want to introduce them to everyone… friends, family, and neighbors. But while you’re excited, your dog is feeling overwhelmed.
A new home is already a huge adjustment. Adding too many new faces, places, and experiences all at once can leave your dog feeling anxious or overstimulated.
Instead, take it slow. Focus on building trust and creating positive, low-pressure experiences:
- Start with short, quiet walks before exploring busier places.
- Hold off on trips to the dog park or pet store for at least a month, ideally three.
- Keep introductions to new people one-on-one, and let your dog decide when they’re ready.
Mistake 3: Skipping Proper Training
You might assume your new dog already knows basic commands or has had some training before. But for many rescue dogs, this isn’t the case. They might never have had consistent guidance, or worse, they’ve picked up some bad habits.
Start training right away, but keep it fun and positive! Training isn’t just about teaching commands… it’s the best way to bond with your dog and build their confidence.
- Begin with simple commands like “sit” or “stay.”
- Use high-value treats (tiny pieces of chicken or cheese work great!) and lots of praise.
- Be consistent, and make sure everyone in the household is on the same page about rules and commands.
Training doesn’t have to be long or complicated. Even 3 minutes a day can make a world of difference!
Mistake 4: Ignoring Body Language
Dogs don’t speak our language, they speak dog! And their body language is their way of communicating with us. Unfortunately, many owners miss the subtle signs of stress or discomfort, like:
- Yawning
- Lip licking
- Turning their head away
Ignoring these signals can make your dog feel unheard and even escalate their anxiety.
Learn to recognize your dog’s body language:
- Observe what their ears, tail, and posture look like when they’re relaxed. This will help you notice when something feels “off.”
- Watch for stress signals and adjust the situation. For example, if your dog avoids eye contact, they might be feeling uneasy—give them space and let them approach at their own pace.
Understanding body language is a game-changer. In fact, if I could only give you one piece of advice, this would be it!
Mistake 5: Inconsistent Routines
Dogs thrive on predictability and structure. Changing routines, like feeding times, walk schedules, or bedtime—can make them feel anxious and unsure of what’s coming next.
Instead, create a consistent schedule for your dog:
- Feed, walk, and take them potty at the same times each day.
- Use a calendar or set reminders on your phone to help you stay on track.
By sticking to a routine, you’ll help your dog feel safe and secure… and that trust will make all the difference.
Bonus Tip: Learn Your Dog’s Love Language
As promised, here’s a bonus tip that can truly transform your relationship with your dog: Learn your dog’s love language.
Every dog has their own way of feeling loved and secure. For some, it’s all about food or puzzle games. For others, it might be physical touch, like gentle pets or massages.
The key is to pay attention to what makes your dog happiest. Do their eyes light up when you toss a ball? Do they lean into you when you sit together? Use those cues to connect with your dog in the way they understand best.
When you figure out what “lights them up,” you’re not just training them… you’re building trust and showing them they’re truly part of your family.
What’s Next?
In this post, you’ve learned how to avoid the 5 most common mistakes new rescue dog owners make… like setting realistic expectations, taking things slow, understanding body language, building routines, and making training fun.
By focusing on these simple fixes, you’ll create a safe, loving environment where your rescue dog can thrive and truly become part of your family.
Adopting a rescue dog is a journey, and it’s okay to make mistakes along the way. By avoiding these common pitfalls and applying these tips, you’ll create a stronger bond with your dog and help them thrive in their new home.
Your dog’s happily-ever-after starts with you. Let’s make it amazing!
