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The Third Time Is The Charm

The Third Time Is The Charm
by
July 22, 2026
in Humane Education Column
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By: Judy Hamontre, AVHS Vice Chair

We have all heard the expression, “the third time is the charm.” Also charming and very helpful is the 3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months rule of adopting a rescue dog.

Experts in animal behavior have tracked and analyzed how rescued dogs behave with the results being the widely accepted 3-3-3 Rule.

Although every dog is unique and will adjust differently, the 3-3-3 Rule provides a general guideline of the adjustment process dogs may go through in their first 3 days, 3 weeks and 3 months in their new homes.

Key to remember is that adopted dogs are in unfamiliar surroundings and need space and time to adjust and grow into their new environments.

According to the San Francisco SPCA, “Moving into a new home is a big change for a dog, especially one coming from a shelter. The 3-3-3 guideline helps you and your dog navigate this adjustment period. By keeping the 3-3-3 guideline in mind, you can: set realistic expectations, avoid overwhelming your dog with too much too soon, help your dog feel safe, secure, and loved, and give your dog the best chance to become a happy, well-behaved member of your family.”

This advice is true whether your new friend is a puppy or an older dog. Of course, puppies may require even more patience and training, but older dogs may take longer to warm up if they have lived in several homes or not had proper care, love, socialization and training.

Whatever the age or background of your adopted furry friends, allow them to move at their own pace providing love and gently-spoken, calm consistency.

In general, according to the 3-3-3 Rule, during the first 3 days dogs may feel overwhelmed and nervous. In 3 weeks they typically begin to settle in and in 3 months begin to build trust and bond with you.

More specifically, in the first 3 days, often referred to as decompression, dogs may feel overwhelmed, scared and unsure of what is going on. They may not want to eat or drink and perhaps seem to “shut down,” hiding under a table or in a corner and sleeping a lot.

They may experience separation anxiety from their shelter, previous home or pack mates. They can be too insecure and uncomfortable to be themselves. They might even begin to test their boundaries.

After 3 weeks, the 3-3-3 guidelines suggest that dogs start to settle in and feel more comfortable, realizing this could be their long-term home. They have figured out their environment and are beginning to get into a set routine. They begin to let their guards down and show their true personalities, and behavioral issues may also start appearing.

After 3 months your new buddies are finally comfortable with their set routine in their adoptive home. They have usually gained a complete sense of security with you, their new home and family. They trust you and your bond begins to solidify. Life is good.

Being familiar with these stages of behavior will allow you to know your adopted dogs are actually behaving normally as they acclimate to their new home and you. Observe, understand and try not to panic.

Take a breath, be patient and love while providing a comfy, private space for your furry friend, freedom to explore and familiarize, a regular routine, calm but firm corrections for misbehaviors, rewards for successes and lots of reassuring love. Your adopted pet will adjust and become your loyal friend.

3 days, 3 weeks, 3 months is “The Rule” and a joyful “charm-filled” well-adjusted doggy for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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