These are general observations covering the first 3 days, 3 weeks and 3 months, to help you and your new dog get to know each other.
First 3 days
To decompress
- Feeling overwhelmed and may not want you too close or in their face
- A possibility of the odd grumble
- May feel scared or unsure of what is going on
- May not want to eat or drink
- Shuts down and goes somewhere to curl up and hide
- Tests the boundaries
First 3 weeks
To learn your routine
- Starting to settle in
- Beginning to feel more comfortable
- Beginning to realise this could be their forever home
- Figures out their new environment
- Getting into a routine
- Cautiously beginning to let their guard down
- Their personality beginning to show through
- Behaviour issues may start to show
First 3 months
To start to feel at home
- Finally feels completely comfortable in their new home
- Starting to build a trust and bond
- They have probably now gained a complete sense of security with their new family
- Settling into a routine
These are general observations for the adjustment period of a dog after adoption. Every dog is unique, and some will adjust differently or take a little longer.
If you are worried about how your Vizsla is settling in, please get in touch. Our volunteers are happy to help.