What to expect and how to settle in together
Bringing a new dog home is exciting, emotional, and often more intense than people expect. Whether your dog is a puppy or an adult, the first week is not about perfect behaviour or instant bonding. It is about settling in, building a sense of safety, and learning each other. If the first few days feel messy, overwhelming, or quieter than you imagined, that is normal.
This post walks you through what the first seven days often look like and how to approach them calmly and realistically...
Before you begin: An important mindset shift
The first week is not about having a perfectly trained dog or following a rigid routine with no flexibility. It is also not about feeling constant joy or confidence. The first week is about creating predictability, reducing overwhelm, and allowing both you and your dog to adjust. Think of this week as orientation.
Day 1: Arrival & decompression
Your dog has just experienced a major change. New smells, new sounds, new people, and a completely unfamiliar environment can be overwhelming.
On day one, your dog may seem very quiet or withdrawn. Some dogs appear overstimulated, others cling closely, and some avoid interaction entirely. Accidents inside the house are common.
Focus on keeping the day calm and low key. Show your dog where they will eat, sleep, and go to the toilet. Avoid visitors and unnecessary outings. Allow them to explore their new space at their own pace. The goal today is safety, not excitement.
Day 2: Observation over expectation
As the initial shock wears off, your dog may begin to explore more. You might notice increased curiosity, bursts of energy, nervousness, or restlessness at night. This is your dog starting to take in their surroundings. Instead of correcting every behaviour, focus on observing. Keep feeding and toilet times consistent. If your dog seems comfortable, short and calm walks are fine, but there is no need to push it. This day is about listening and learning.
Day 3: Routine starts to matter
By the third day, your dog begins to recognise patterns. You may start to see more confidence and early signs of personality. You may also see behaviours that surprise you. Consistency matters now. Keep wake-up times, meals, walks, and rest periods predictable. Gently reinforce toilet habits and reward calm behaviour. Routine builds a sense of security faster than affection alone.
Day 4: Emotional overwhelm is super common!
Around this point, many new dog owners feel unexpectedly emotional. You might feel tired, anxious, unsure, or even regretful. This does not mean you made the wrong decision. It means you are adjusting to a new responsibility. Focus on maintaining routine even if you feel uncertain. Lower your expectations and give yourself permission to learn as you go. Bonding takes time. It is built through repetition and care.
Day 5: Small wins begin to show
Progress often appears quietly. You may notice fewer accidents, better sleep, calmer behaviour, or small moments of connection. These moments matter, even if everything is not perfect yet. Pay attention to what is working. Reinforce positive behaviours and keep training short and gentle. This is often the day people begin to feel more grounded.
Day 6: Confidence grows
As your dog starts to feel safer, they may become more expressive. This can look like increased playfulness, boundary testing, or vocal behaviour. This is not a step backwards. It is often a sign that your dog feels secure enough to show more of themselves. Respond calmly. Redirect unwanted behaviour rather than reacting emotionally. Keep life predictable and structured.
Day 7: Still Early, Still Learning
One week in, it is important to remember that you are still at the beginning. Your dog is learning your expectations, your home, and your rhythm. You are learning how to support them. Use this day to reflect on what you have learned about your dog and adjust routines if needed. Look ahead to the coming weeks with patience. You are doing better than you think.
Common Questions During the First Week
Is it normal if I do not feel bonded yet?
Yes. Bonding grows over time through shared experiences and consistency.
Should I start formal training immediately?
Focus on routine and trust first. Training is more effective once your dog feels safe.
What if this feels harder than I expected?
That feeling is common. Seek support early rather than struggling alone.
The first seven days with a new dog are not about getting everything right. They are about showing up consistently, responding with patience, and allowing space for adjustment. Whether you welcomed a puppy or an adult dog, you are building a relationship that unfolds over months and years, not days - you are learning together.