by Adopt a Pet, | February 7, 2024
Dogs are creatures of habit, they like to have their routine, and it can take time to adjust to new settings. Every dog is different, but it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks for a dog to get used to a new home. Exactly how long it will take depends on your dog’s age and temperament, as well as his history. While there is no one answer, you should prepare for it to take a considerable amount of time—up to several months—for your Australian Shepherd to fully acclimate. Unfortunately, many people adopt a dog and then return him when he doesn’t fit in right away. If you’ve brought an Australian Shepherd into your home, be sure to give him the time he needs before giving up on him.
Wouldn’t it be great if you could bring a new dog home, point him to the dog bed, tell him not to chase the cat, and have that be that? Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. Dogs need time to get used to new rules and routines, and it’s up to you to help him do that.
If a few weeks go by without progress, it could be because you haven’t taken the proper steps to help your dog acclimate and establish a routine. It’s not always easy, but getting help from a vet or a trainer can make the process a lot easier.
If your Australian Shepherd was adopted, you probably don’t know his background. It’s unsettling for dogs to change homes, and if he wasn’t adequately trained or was treated poorly in his last home, he’s coming to you at a disadvantage.
The good news is that with enough time and the right kind of encouragement from you, he’ll soon be a well-behaved part of the family! Don’t give up on your pet. Give him the time he needs, and the reward will be a loyal canine companion!