Thinking of adopting a rescue dog?
You’ve read the blogs, watched the videos, maybe even visited your local shelter. Bringing home a rescue dog is exciting, emotional — and yes, sometimes overwhelming.
You’ve done something extraordinary. You’ve changed a dog’s life.
But what comes next?
The early days with a rescue dog can be bumpy. Many owners unintentionally make mistakes that affect their Progress, simply because they weren’t informed about what to expect.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the most common mistakes new rescue owners make — and how to avoid them. You’ll find practical tips, personal stories, and expert-backed advice to help your dog settle safely and confidently.
Expecting Too Much Too Soon
Rescue dogs need time to adjust. Many have had hard starts — moved around, neglected, or just confused by all the change. It’s not fair to expect instant cuddles or perfect behaviour.
What does this look like in real life?
Your dog may:
- Hide or sleep for hours on end
- Refuse walks, treats, or toys
- Flinch at sudden movements
- Ignore you completely
This is all part of the decompression process — the natural adjustment to a new environment.
What you can do:
- Keep everything calm and predictable
- Avoid visitors, new places, and significant changes in the first week
- Let your dog observe, sniff, and rest
👉 Think of it like recovery, not training. Your rescue is adjusting to survive, not misbehaving.
Skipping the Vet Check
Even if a vet has seen your rescue, book your appointment within the first week or two. It helps establish a health baseline and builds your dog’s trust with your chosen vet.
Why it matters:
- Many conditions (like dental issues or parasites) aren’t obvious
- You can update microchip details, vaccination status, and flea/worming plans
- You can discuss neutering, diet, and behaviour worries early
💡Tip: Ask your vet to scan the microchip and confirm ownership transfer.
Rushing Into Walks
It’s tempting to take your new dog for long walks right away. But for nervous or shut-down dogs, the outside world can be terrifying.
What to look for:
- Pulling, barking, freezing
- Flat ears, tail tucked, wide eyes
- Refusal to move or to bolt
Instead, try this:
- Start in the garden or just outside your front door
- Use a secure harness and double lead setup
- Choose quiet times and quiet places
- Reward calm sniffing and following you
Sniffing is calming. Let them lead the pace.
Doing Too Much, Too Fast
You might want to show your new dog everything: friends, parks, cafés, and other dogs. But for a rescue still learning you’re safe, it’s too much.
Common triggers:
- Other dogs are getting too close
- Noisy children
- Visitors in the home
- Vet visits or groomers too early
Instead:
- Build positive experiences slowly
- Say no to visitors in the early days
- Create a safe retreat space
- Use high-value treats to Progress.
👉 Progress comes from feeling safe, not being exposed to more.
Punishing Fear-Based Behaviours
Growling, barking, snapping — these can be scary. But they’re often signs of fear, not aggression.
What might trigger fear?
- Reaching over their head
- Taking food or toys away
- Loud voices or sudden movements
- Being cornered or touched when asleep
What helps:
- Learn dog body language (lip licking, yawning, turning away)
- Give your dog space and choice
- Use positive reinforcement only
💡Fearful dogs aren’t being difficult — they’re doing their best to cope.
Changing Their Food Too Quickly
Many dogs arrive with sensitive stomachs or poor nutrition. A sudden change in diet can cause upset.
Signs to watch:
- Loose stools
- Vomiting
- Lack of appetite
Do this instead:
- Ask what they were eating at the rescue
- Mix in your chosen food slowly over 7–10 days
- Stick to simple, consistent meals at first
💡Speak to your vet before switching to raw, grain-free, or home-cooked diets.
Letting Them Roam Unsupervised
Your dog may seem calm, but they don’t yet know the rules of your home. Accidents, chewing, or guarding behaviours can occur quickly.
To help them succeed:
- Use baby gates or playpens to set boundaries
- Remove tempting items like shoes or bins
- Give access to one or two rooms only
- Crate training can be helpful if introduced gently
💡Freedom is earned once they understand the space.
Ignoring the Need for Mental Stimulation
Toys alone won’t keep your dog occupied. Mental stimulation helps prevent boredom and anxiety.
Easy enrichment ideas:
- Scatter feeding in the garden
- Lick mats or frozen Kongs
- Snuffle mats or cardboard box shredding
- Basic training games (sit, touch, find it)
Ten minutes of brain work is as tiring as a 30-minute walk.
Forgetting Routine and Structure
Your dog craves predictability. It helps them feel safe.
What to set:
- Feeding times
- Walk times (if appropriate)
- Sleep and rest areas
- Potty breaks
Create a rough daily rhythm that suits you both — and stick to it.
Not Asking for Help Early Enough
It’s OK to need support. Many rescue owners feel overwhelmed — especially in the first month.
Don’t wait for problems to spiral. Reach out to:
- Your rescue centre (some offer behaviour support)
- A qualified positive reinforcement trainer
- Local dog walkers experienced with rescue dogs
💡Ask your walker if they offer solo walks, decompression routes, or pop-in visits for nervous dogs.
FAQ: Rescue Dog Mistakes
How long should I wait before taking my rescue dog for a walk?
Start with short sniff walks in calm areas after a few days. Let your dog set the pace. Some dogs require a week or more to become ready.
What if my rescue dog won’t eat?
Stick to a consistent routine. Offer meals in a quiet spot. Hand feeding can help build trust. If it lasts more than 2–3 days, consult your veterinarian.
Should I crate train my rescue dog?
It can help, but go slow. Make it a positive place with treats and bedding. Never use it for punishment.
Final Thoughts
Bringing home a rescue dog is a journey — not a quick fix. Mistakes will happen. That’s OK.
What matters most is that you learn, adapt, and stay consistent. Your dog doesn’t need perfection. They need patience, love, and someone willing to understand them.
If you’re struggling with walks, settling routines, or day-to-day support, I can help.
I offer solo walks, house sitting, and drop-ins tailored to nervous or newly adopted dogs, along with a rescue package
Let’s give your rescue the gentle start it deserves.
📩 Drop me a message today to chat about your dog’s needs