Bringing home an adult dog is exciting—and with a little preparation, you can help ensure a smooth, safe, and happy transition for everyone.
This guide outlines what to expect during the first days, weeks, and months together. Adult dogs bring maturity, personality, and the ability to form strong, lasting bonds with children. With supervision, consistency, and patience, your new family member will settle in and thrive.
Before the dog comes home
Important Reminder for all family members: Your new dog will need time to adjust to their new home. Toys, treats, pets, walks, cuddles, and out-of-kennel time were all restricted when in a shelter environment. Imagine being on a strict diet for weeks, and then you are let into a buffet with all your favorite foods. That would be really exciting! You might go a little overboard, you might try to stuff as much on your plate as possible. You might be completely overwhelmed and not know where to start.
Remember, your new dog friend needs ample time to adjust, and rules and boundaries should be established early. Even if these new rules seem a bit strict, please remember that it is already so much better than a kennel at the shelter. Start your new journey on the right paw!
the first day home
Keep the home calm during arrival—no rushing, crowding, or loud greetings. Let the dog explore at their own pace. On day one, it’s best for the dog to
stay out of children’s bedrooms and off furniture while they adjust to the new environment.
Introduce children one at a time. Show them how to offer a hand to sniff and how to give gentle strokes on the shoulder or chest. The dog should
not be allowed to sit or stand between an adult and a child during early days.
Help children learn basic dog body language. Signs like lip licking, yawning, trembling, whale eye, sudden stillness, or trying to walk away all mean the dog needs space—and
the dog should always be allowed to opt out of interaction.
Begin establishing a routine immediately. Predictable feeding times, potty breaks, walks, play, and quiet hours help the dog feel secure.
The first weeks (1-4)
helping the dog settle in (months 2-3)
Expect an adjustment period. Adult dogs often arrive with unknown histories and may be shy, overly excited, test boundaries, or become attached to one particular family member. They may guard food, bones, toys, or furniture—items that can feel especially high-value after shelter life.
Other normal behaviors include occasional accidents, being startled by loud or fast-moving children, or confusion about which items belong to them. These issues typically improve with patience, structure, and consistent expectations.
supporting positive interaction with kids
setting up for success
Use management tools such as baby gates, leashes during early interactions, and a covered crate or playpen to give structure and prevent accidental conflicts.
Set up a feeding plan by placing the dog’s food and water in a quiet, low-traffic location.
Children should never take food, bones, or toys from the dog. Giving items is fine, but do it by having the dog “wait” or “sit” and by not allowing the dog to take things directly from a child’s hands.
common CHALLENGES (& how to respond)
Growling is communication—not misbehavior. If it happens, end the interaction calmly and give the dog space. Look for what triggered the response and adjust your approach.
Accidents can happen as the dog adjusts. Keep a schedule, reward outdoor potty breaks, and avoid punishment. Punishment creates fear and does not help the dog learn.
Overexcitement around kids is common. Keep interactions short and supervised, redirect the dog with toys when needed, and reward moments of calm behavior.
when to ask for help
Seek a professional trainer or behavior specialist if you notice escalating resource guarding, persistent fearfulness, snapping or biting, or trouble adapting to routine. Early support makes a big difference.
Here in Charlottesville,
Dog Training By Valerie is a recommended
Certified Behavior Consultant.
