Pet owner urges people to follow ‘3-3-3 rule’ when adopting new pup – so they aren’t abandoned later

Adopting a new puppy is an exciting and rewarding experience, but it comes with a responsibility that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Many people are often unprepared for the challenges of integrating a dog into their home. Understanding the emotional and behavioral transition dogs go through can help create a smoother adjustment for both the pet and the owner. One pet owner, hoping to raise awareness about this, is urging others to follow the '3-3-3 rule' to ensure they don’t end up abandoning their new furry friend. A clip shared on TikTok by Isabel Klee (@simonsits) discusses the importance of understanding a dog's emotional journey after adoption. 

In the video, Klee explains that the '3-3-3 rule' refers to the first three days, three weeks, and three months of a new dog’s life in its new home. "It refers to the amount of time it takes a dog to decompress after you take them home for the first time," she said. She shares how these initial days, weeks, and months are crucial, as they will determine the pet's future in the new home. "I see so many people adopting a new dog and returning them the next day because their personality is not what they imagined it to be," said Klee. She further emphasizes how one can never truly understand a canine's personality during the initial days, as the animals are usually guarded and still adjusting to their new environment after coming from a shelter. 

"The first three weeks and even the first three months are not truly indicative of what their personality will be for the rest of their lives." While the statement is true, it can't be applied to every dog. Klee explains the rule will "differ for every single dog, but typically the first three days are when your dog will be the most shut down." This behavior may involve avoiding food or water, having accidents indoors, and even experiencing diarrhea. "Or on the flip side, they could still have all this pent-up energy from being in a shelter and kind of be bouncing off the walls and just be like totally crazy," states Klee. She talks about how, during this period, the canine may test your boundaries, but the key is to remain patient. She assures that the weeks following the initial days will be better and smoother, as the dog realizes it's here for the "long haul." 

Some common antics and behavioral issues like chewing footwear, running in circles, or counter surfing could be noticed as well. Then, once you reach the three-month mark, many of these behaviors typically settle down as the dog begins to feel more comfortable in the new home. The pet will also be able to "form a long-term bond with you, they will start to trust you, and they will feel truly happy." Klee ends the clip by reiterating the importance of being patient during these months and reminds viewers that every dog adjusts at its own pace. "Some dogs take no time at all to settle in, and some dogs take a year to settle in, but this is why I encourage people to give it time and not throw in the towel just because it's hard in the first three months," she concludes.

For more informational dog content, follow @simonsits on her TikTok account.