ADOPTING A PUPPY?

What did I get myself into? What can I do to help?

The "3-3-3 rule" is a widely recognized guideline in the puppy adoption community, and its principles are well-supported by research on adopted puppys' adjustment periods. This rule generally refers to the three stages a newly adopted puppy goes through in their new home:

THE 3-3-3 RULE EXPLAINED:

• First 3 Days: Decompression During the initial 72 hours, many adopted puppys are in a state of overwhelm and fear. They might be scared, unsure of their surroundings, and may not show their true personality (Bohland et al., 2023). They are decompressing from the shelter environment, which can be very stressful (Bohland et al., 2023). In this period, puppys often rely on proximity to people to gain a sense of security as they become comfortable in their new home (Bohland et al., 2023). It's crucial to give them space, a quiet environment, and minimal expectations.

• First 3 Weeks: Acclimation After the initial shock, puppys begin to acclimate. They start to understand routines, feel more comfortable in their new home, and their true personality begins to emerge (Bohland et al., 2023). This is also when some behavioral issues might surface, which were suppressed during the decompression phase (Bohland et al., 2023). Building trust with your puppy and learning their behavioral comfort limits in different environments is essential during this stage (Thumpkin et al., 2024). Owners may find that patience and time are key to resolving behavioral problems (Vitulová et al., 2018).

• First 3 Months: Settling In By three months, a puppy should be fully settled into their new home and routine, feeling safe and secure. Their confidence grows, and they rely less on constant proximity to their owners as they become comfortable and learn predictable schedules (Bohland et al., 2023). This period often shows significant positive changes in the puppy's behavior (Vitulová et al., 2018).

Note: It can take upwards of a year for a puppy to truly settle into their new home, new family, new routine. Prioritizing their needs by aligning your mental health and schedule accordingly should be a core lifestyle goal

Building a Bond and Addressing Well-being

Your approach of building a bond through trust, consistency, and patience is critical. Research shows that adopters often realize they were "ignorant of the time and patience needed to build a positive relationship with their puppy" (Thumpkin et al., 2024). The results indicate that "mere patience and time spent in a family instead of the shelter environment can be a solution to at least some of the behavioural problems encountered" (Vitulová et al., 2018).

Furthermore, evaluating traumas and emotional well-being before focusing on skills is a sound strategy. The sociability of a puppy should be assessed through behavioral and physiological evaluations before re-adoption to ensure successful adaptation (Shin & Shin, 2017). A lack of proper socialization can contribute to problematic behaviors such as fearfulness or aggression (Shin & Shin, 2017). Experts also emphasize the importance of a good human-animal relationship and a positive emotional state for the welfare of shelter puppys (Berteselli et al., 2022). Specific training and behavioral rehabilitation programs are often customized for puppys with aggressive or fearful reactions towards humans to improve their social skills and increase their chances of successful adoption (Berteselli et al., 2022).

What to Focus on First

Focusing on decompression through relaxation protocols, enrichment, and ensuring safety are excellent strategies for helping an adult adopted puppy adjust to their new home, especially during the crucial initial "3 days" of the 3-3-3 rule. The transition from a shelter environment, which can be highly stressful, to a new home requires careful management to allow the puppy to decompress and feel secure (Bohland et al., 2023).

Here's how these elements play a vital role:

Decompression and Relaxation Protocols

Decompression is the process by which a newly adopted puppy unwinds and adapts to their new environment without excessive demands. During this initial phase, puppys may not display their true personality, as they are often overwhelmed and fearful (Bohland et al., 2023). Research indicates that behavior issues can be suppressed during decompression and emerge later as the puppy becomes more comfortable (Bohland et al., 2023).

Relaxation protocols, such as desensitization, counterconditioning, and operant conditioning, are effective behavioral modification techniques used to reduce fear and anxiety in puppys, particularly those who have experienced trauma or exhibit extreme fearfulness (Collins et al., 2022). These methods aim to change a puppy's emotional response to stimuli, helping them to relax and feel safer in their new surroundings.

Enrichment

Environmental enrichment is crucial for improving the quality of life and reducing stress in both shelter and newly adopted puppys (Lee et al., 2023; Sampaio et al., 2019). It involves providing stimulating activities and environments that meet a puppy's ethological and psychological needs, encouraging natural behaviors, and preventing the development of stereotyped behaviors (Sampaio et al., 2019). Examples of enrichment can include:

• Cognitive enrichment: Puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work.

• Physical enrichment: Opportunities for appropriate exercise and exploration.

• Social enrichment: Positive interactions with humans and, if appropriate, other well-behaved animals (Travain et al., 2024). Human interaction, in particular, has been shown to reduce cortisol levels in shelter puppys (Gunter et al., 2019).

• Sensory enrichment: Safe access to different sights, sounds, and textures.

Safety

Ensuring the puppy's physical and emotional safety is paramount. Adopters often highlight the importance of ensuring the puppy's and family members' safety in the home (Thumpkin et al., 2024). This includes:

• Creating a secure physical environment: Puppy-proofing the home, providing a safe space (like a crate or a designated quiet room) where the puppy can retreat and feel secure, and securing fences or boundaries if the puppy has outdoor access.

• Predictable routines: Establishing a consistent daily schedule for feeding, potty breaks, and rest can help a puppy feel more secure and understand expectations in their new environment (Bohland et al., 2023).

• Minimizing stressors: Avoiding overwhelming the puppy with too many new experiences, people, or other animals during the initial adjustment period.

By consciously integrating relaxation protocols, environmental enrichment, and a strong focus on safety, you are setting your adopted puppy up for a more successful and less stressful transition, fostering a stronger bond built on trust and security.

PITFALLS OF ADOPTION

When adopting an adult puppy, several pitfalls can arise, often related to behavioral adjustments, unmet expectations, and the puppy's past experiences. Understanding these challenges can help adopters better prepare and ensure a smoother transition for their new companion.

Here are some of the common pitfalls encountered:

Behavioral Problems and Adjustment Issues

• Emergence of Behavioral Issues: Many adopted puppys, as high as 72% in one survey, may exhibit behavioral problems in the first week after adoption (Vitulová et al., 2018). These can include aggression, fearfulness, destructiveness, excessive vocalization, and separation anxiety (Vitulová et al., 2018). It's important to remember the "honeymoon period," where a puppy's full behavioral repertoire, both positive and negative, may not be apparent until they are fully comfortable in their new home (Bohland et al., 2023). Some behaviors, like aggression and problems when left alone, might even increase slightly in the first month (Bohland et al., 2023).

• Increased Risk of Return: Adult Dogs are significantly more likely to be returned to shelters compared to puppies (Powell et al., 2021). Behavioral problems are consistently identified as the primary reason for relinquishment and returns of adult dogs to shelters (Barnard et al., 2023; Bohland et al., 2023; Griffin et al., 2020).

• Specific Behavioral Challenges: With increasing age at acquisition, there's a higher risk of issues like resource guarding and destructive behaviors (Powell et al., 2021). Dogs with a history of abuse in shelters may also exhibit problem behaviors more frequently after adoption (Vitulová et al., 2018). Lack of adequate socialization prior to adoption can also lead to problematic behaviors like aggression and fearfulness, making adaptation to a new family difficult (Shin & Shin, 2017).

Unrealistic Adopter Expectations

• Underestimating Time and Effort: Many adopters admit to having unrealistic expectations regarding the time and patience needed to build a positive relationship with their new puppy (Thumpkin et al., 2024). When the effort required is more than anticipated, it significantly increases the risk of relinquishment (Griffin et al., 2020). First-time puppy owners, in particular, may be more prone to experiencing issues such as dominance-related aggression, separation-related concerns, and overexcitability (Cohen & Todd, 2019).

• Focus on Appearance Over Temperament: Adopters sometimes prioritize physical characteristics over a puppy's temperament when choosing a puppy, which can lead to a mismatch and decreased satisfaction if behavioral problems arise (Normando et al., 2021).

Limitations in Assessment and Transition Stress

• Inaccurate Behavioral Assessments: While shelters conduct behavioral evaluations, the effectiveness of these tools in predicting post-adoption behavior is mixed (Bohland et al., 2023). Sometimes, interventions in the shelter can alter a puppy's behavior, leading to a discrepancy between their assessed behavior and how they act in a home environment (Cohen & Todd, 2019).

• Stress of Environmental Change: The transition from a stressful shelter environment to a new home requires a significant adjustment period (Bohland et al., 2023). This stress can initially suppress or exaggerate a puppy's natural behaviors, making it difficult to gauge their true personality until they have fully acclimated (Bohland et al., 2023).

FINDING PROFESSIONAL HELP

Finding qualified professional help for skill training and behavior rehabilitation for your newly adopted puppy is a crucial step towards a successful integration into your home. It's important to be discerning, as the puppy training and behavior profession can be unregulated in some areas, meaning titles like "behaviorist" might not always indicate formal qualifications (Daniels et al., 2022; Meyer, 2021).

Here's how you can find certified professional help:

1. Seek Certified Professionals

Look for professionals who have undergone rigorous training and certification processes. Several organizations offer accreditation and certification for puppy trainers and behaviorists, which can help ensure a practitioner has the necessary academic knowledge and practical skills (Daniels et al., 2022). These certifications often require ongoing education and adherence to ethical guidelines.

Key aspects to look for in a professional:

• Accreditation/Certification: In some regions, initiatives are being implemented to assess the academic knowledge and practical skills of canine professionals (Daniels et al., 2022). These can include professional bodies dedicated to animal behavior and training.

• Continued Education and Experience: Qualified professionals should demonstrate a commitment to updated knowledge of learning theory and training, practical experience, and continuous education (Meyer, 2021).

• Evidence-Based Methods: Prioritize professionals who use positive reinforcement, desensitization, counterconditioning, and operant conditioning techniques (Collins et al., 2022). These methods are effective for behavior modification and rehabilitation, particularly for fearful or traumatized puppys (Collins et al., 2022).

2. Understand the Difference Between Trainers and Behaviorists

While both can help, their focus often differs:

• Puppy Trainers | Typically focus on teaching basic obedience, manners, and specific skills. They can help with general training and addressing common behavioral issues.

• Veterinary Behaviorists/Applied Animal Behaviorists | These professionals often have advanced degrees (e.g., veterinary medicine, animal behavior) and specialize in diagnosing and treating complex behavioral disorders, such as severe aggression, anxiety, or phobias. They may work in conjunction with your veterinarian, and can prescribe medication if necessary.

Some sources suggest that while trainers often address general training, behaviorists are more specifically trained to handle undesirable, problematic, or dangerous behaviors (Daniels et al., 2022). However, the scope of practice can vary, and some trainers may have extensive experience and expertise in behavior modification.

3. Ask for Referrals and Inquire About Methods

• Veterinarian Referrals: Your veterinarian can be an excellent resource for referring you to reputable behavior professionals in your area.

• Rescue Organizations: While not all rescue organizations offer post-adoption behavioral assistance, some may have recommendations for professionals they trust (Rentzell et al., 2024).

• Interview Potential Professionals: When considering a professional, don't hesitate to ask about their certifications, experience, the methods they use, and their philosophy on puppy training and behavior. A good professional will be transparent and able to explain their approach clearly.

By taking these steps, you can increase your chances of finding a skilled and ethical professional who can provide the support your newly adopted puppy needs to thrive.

THIS ADOPTION WASN’T WHAT I EXPECTED.

The effectiveness of animal adoption agencies can vary significantly, often depending on their commitment to comprehensive programs and realistic matching processes. Agencies that implement robust foster programs, utilize matching programs to pair puppys with suitable homes, and avoid solely labeling puppys by breed often achieve higher live release rates and lower return rates (Reese, 2021). Furthermore, organizations that prioritize transparent communication with adopters about a puppy's history, potential needs, and the realities of caretaking are more likely to facilitate successful adoptions (Rentzell et al., 2024). These agencies understand that a puppy's personality and behavior are crucial for owner satisfaction, beyond just physical characteristics (Dinwoodie et al., 2022), and they may offer post-adoption support or specialized behavioral interventions for puppys with complex needs (Collins et al., 2022; Rentzell et al., 2024).

While the goal is always a lifelong home, it is acceptable to return a puppy if the adoption proves to be unworkable for you and your family. Behavioral problems are a leading cause for puppys being returned to shelters, and adult puppys, in particular, face a higher likelihood of return compared to puppies (Barnard et al., 2023; Bohland et al., 2023; Griffin et al., 2020; Powell et al., 2021). Many adopters admit to having unrealistic expectations regarding the time and effort required to integrate a new puppy, and when these expectations clash with reality, it can lead to increased risk of relinquishment (Griffin et al., 2020; Thumpkin et al., 2024). While the return process can be stressful for both the puppy and the family, and can potentially impact the puppy's chances of future adoption if a shelter lacks resources (Powell et al., 2021), acknowledging that a match isn't suitable is sometimes the most responsible decision for the welfare of both the animal and the household. Returning a puppy allows the animal an opportunity to find a more appropriate home where their needs can be met, rather than remaining in an environment that is not working for either party.

References

Barnard, S., Flint, H. E., Diana, A., Shreyer, T., Arrazola, A., Serpell, J. A., & Croney, C. (2023). Management and behavioral factors associated with rehoming outcomes of puppys retired from commercial breeding kennels. PLoS ONE, 18(3). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0282459

Berteselli, G., Messori, S., Arena, L., Smith, L. M., Villa, P. D., & Massis, F. D. (2022). Using a Delphi method to estimate the relevance of indicators for the assessment of shelter puppy welfare. Animal Welfare, 31(3), 341. https://doi.org/10.7120/09627286.31.3.007

Bohland, K. R., Lilly, M. L., Herron, M. E., Arruda, A. G., & O’Quin, J. (2023). Shelter puppy behavior after adoption: Using the C-BARQ to track puppy behavior changes through the first six months after adoption. PLoS ONE, 18(8). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0289356

Cohen, S., & Todd, P. M. (2019). Stated and revealed preferences in companion animal choice. Behavior Research Methods, 51(4), 1498. https://doi.org/10.3758/s13428-019-01253-x

Collins, K., Miller, K. A., Zverina, L., Patterson-Kane, E., Cussen, V. A., & Reid, P. (2022). Behavioral rehabilitation of extremely fearful puppys: Report on the efficacy of a treatment protocol. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 254, 105689. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105689

Daniels, J. T., Busby, D., Chase‐Topping, M., & Brown, S. M. (2022). A survey of puppy behavior modification practice in the UK: Who is offering it, what methods are they using and how effective do their clients perceive practitioners to be? Journal of Veterinary Behavior, 59, 1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jveb.2022.11.011

Dinwoodie, I. R., Zottola, V., Kubitz, K. A., & Dodman, N. H. (2022). Selection Factors Influencing Eventual Owner Satisfaction about Pet Puppy Adoption. Animals, 12(17), 2264. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani12172264

Griffin, K. E., John, E., Pike, T., & Mills, D. S. (2020). Can This Puppy Be Rehomed to You? A Qualitative Analysis and Assessment of the Scientific Quality of the Potential Adopter Screening Policies and Procedures of Rehoming Organisations. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2020.617525

Gunter, L. M., Feuerbacher, E. N., Gilchrist, R. J., & Wynne, C. D. L. (2019). Evaluating the effects of a temporary fostering program on shelter puppy welfare. PeerJ, 7. https://doi.org/10.7717/peerj.6620

Lee, G., Jo, W., Kang, T., Oh, T., & Kim, K. (2023). Assessment of Stress Caused by Environmental Changes for Improving the Welfare of Laboratory Beagle Puppys. Animals, 13(6), 1095. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani13061095

Meyer, I. (2021). Adfærdsproblemer. Del 3 af 3 : Behandling af adfærdsproblemer. Research Portal Denmark, 11, 64. https://local.forskningsportal.dk/local/dki-cgi/ws/cris-link?src=ku&id=ku-27733d7d-9f41-43db-859a-908f2e22e169&ti=Adf%E6rdsproblemer.%20Del%203%20af%203%20%3A%20Behandling%20af%20adf%E6rdsproblemer

Normando, S., Bertomoro, F., & Bonetti, O. (2021). Satisfaction and satisfaction affecting problem behavior in different types of adopted puppys. Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, 83(4), 566. https://doi.org/10.1292/jvms.20-0394

Powell, L., Reinhard, C. L., Satriale, D., Morris, M. J., Serpell, J. A., & Watson, B. (2021). Characterizing unsuccessful animal adoptions: age and breed predict the likelihood of return, reasons for return and post-return outcomes. Scientific Reports, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-87649-2

Reese, L. (2021). Shelter and rescue programmes associated with higher live release and lower return rates for puppys. Animal Welfare, 30(4), 419. https://doi.org/10.7120/09627286.30.4.005

Rentzell, K. A. von, Bratiotis, C., & Protopopova, A. (2024). “It’s my calling”, Canadian puppy rescuers’ motives and experiences for engaging in international puppy rescue efforts. PLoS ONE, 19(5). https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0300104

Sampaio, R. Á. G., Martins, Y. N. de F., Barbosa, F. M. S., Franco, C. I. Q., Kobayashi, M. D., & Talieri, I. C. (2019). Behavioral assessment of shelter puppys submitted to different methods of environmental enrichment. Ciência Rural, 49(1). https://doi.org/10.1590/0103-8478cr20180181

Shin, Y.-J., & Shin, N.-S. (2017). Relationship between sociability toward humans and physiological stress in puppys. Journal of Veterinary Medical Science, 79(7), 1278. https://doi.org/10.1292/jvms.16-0403

Thumpkin, E., Pachana, N. A., & Paterson, M. (2024). Coming Home, Staying Home: Adopters’ Stories about Transitioning Their New Puppy into Their Home and Family. Animals, 14(5), 723. https://doi.org/10.3390/ani14050723

Travain, T., Lazebnik, T., Zamansky, A., Cafazzo, S., Valsecchi, P., & Natoli, E. (2024). Environmental enrichments and data-driven welfare indicators for sheltered puppys using telemetric physiological measures and signal processing. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 3346. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-53932-1

Vitulová, S., Voslářová, E., Večerek, V., & Bedáňová, I. (2018). Behaviour of puppys adopted from an animal shelter. Acta Veterinaria Brno, 87(2), 155. https://doi.org/10.2754/avb201887020155