Sad Lucy on her first day home from the shelter, hiding under the coffee table. Photo by Tim Dawson Helping Rescue Dogs Adjust to Their New Families While many rescue and shelter dogs are ready to adjust to their new family lives, others can be anxious or fearful of their new environment and family members. The constant changes in their circumstances leading up to adoption are often bewildering, and can make an otherwise laid-back and eager-to-please dog, cautious or even suspicious of its new surroundings. These tips from top obedience trainers can help ease your new canine family member's transition into his new lifestyle, and quickly build bonds of trust between you and your new best friend. How to Approach Your Rescue Dog When Petting Him Research shows that dogs that are highly stimuli-reactive and those with fear aggression are most likely to bite their owners if startled when they are approached. Before petting your new dog, first say his name, and be su...
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