08/24/2026
SET THEM UP FOR SUCCESS!!
🚨 PLEASE READ BEFORE BRINGING A NEW DOG HOME TO SET THEM UP FOR SUCCESS
We have recently had three dogs returned after only a few days because the new dog was not kept separate from the resident dogs during meals, treats and access to toys. It is absolutely heartbreaking to see one of our homeless dogs finally get a home and then get returned because a proper transition was not provided.
These conflicts were preventable.
Bringing a new dog home is a delicate process—especially when that dog may have once been starving, never felt safe or never had food, a bed or a toy of their own.
Your current dog may be sweet and friendly, but suddenly there is a stranger in their home eating food, playing with toys and receiving attention. The new dog may be wonderful, too, but may react if they fear that a valued resource is about to be taken away.
This does not automatically make either dog aggressive or “bad.” It means they were put into a situation they were not ready to handle.
These are our 4 NON-NEGOTIABLE RULES for at least the first 2 weeks—and longer if either dog is still showing stress, tension or discomfort:
🍽️ 1. FEED DOGS COMPLETELY SEPARATELY
For the first 2 weeks minimum, feed dogs behind closed doors, in secured crates or in separate rooms. “Across the room” is NOT separation. Pick up all bowls before allowing the dogs together again.
This includes meals, treats, bones, chews, food puzzles and toys. Do not test whether the dogs can share. They do not need to share—not yet. Toys should be put away when the dogs are together. Treats should be given while the dogs are seperated, NOT next to each other.
👀 2. DO NOT LEAVE DOGS TOGETHER UNSUPERVISED
For the first 2 weeks minimum, separate them whenever you leave the house, go to sleep, shower or cannot give them your full attention.
“They seem fine” does not mean they are ready to be left alone together. Use crates, closed doors or secure gates until both dogs have consistently shown that they are calm, comfortable and safe together. This may take longer than 2 weeks.
🐕 3. INTRODUCE DOGS SLOWLY
During the first 2 weeks, begin in a neutral location, use parallel walks and keep early interactions short and calm. Provide frequent breaks and separate spaces.
Do not force interaction, expect instant friendship or make dogs “work it out.” Let trust develop at their pace. Continue this gradual process beyond 2 weeks if either dog seems nervous, overwhelmed or tense.
🏠 4. EXPECT AN ADJUSTMENT PERIOD
The first 2–4 weeks are an adjustment period. Even house-trained dogs may have accidents because of stress, confusion or a new routine. They may also pace, whine, hide, eat less, sleep more or seem unsettled.
Be patient. Maintain a calm routine, provide frequent potty breaks and never punish accidents.
One accident, one growl or one difficult day does not mean the adoption has failed.
A successful adoption requires more than love. It requires patience, structure, supervision and following instructions for at least the first 2 -4 weeks—and longer when needed.
👀 Read more about setting your rescue dog up for success in our Dog Blog in the comments below 👇
