Quick Reference: Dog Decompression Do’s & Don’ts

A quick reference guide for adopters & foster parents

DO's

DON’Ts

Create Structure • Set a consistent schedule for meals, walks, crate time, and rest • Keep routines predictable so your dog can relax and learn expectations • Use calm, low-key greetings and departures Go Slow • Limit new experiences, visitors, and environments during the first few weeks • Take short, frequent walks rather than long, overwhelming ones • Give your dog time to explore the home in small sections Use the Crate Wisely • Feed all meals in the crate to build positive associations • Crate your dog when you leave or when you can’t supervise • Wait for calm before letting them out Support Calm Behavior • Reward quiet, relaxed body language • Reinforce desired behaviors immediately • Keep your voice neutral and your body language loose Keep Safety First • Back up collars/harnesses with a safety clip or second leash • Secure the dog behind a door or in a crate before opening the front door • Keep your dog on leash in yards until you’re 100 percent confident they can’t escape Read Body Language • Watch for signs of stress, overstimulation, or fear • Give your dog space when they ask for it • Respect their signals and adjust the environment accordingly Ask for Help • Reach out to trainers early—don’t wait for behavior to worsen • Use rescue resources, support groups, and professional guidance.

Don’t Rush • Avoid dog parks, bars, crowded spaces, and busy stores during the first few weeks • Don’t introduce your dog to every friend, neighbor, or dog right away Don’t Overwhelm • Skip loud voices, fast movements, and overly “excited” energy • Don’t force attention, touching, or interaction—let the dog initiate Don’t Reinforce Fear • Avoid coddling, baby talk, or petting when the dog is scared • Don’t react with tension—your dog mirrors your emotional state Don’t Allow Free Roam Early On • Don’t give the dog full access to the home • Don’t leave dogs together unsupervised, even if they seem friendly Don’t Reward Unwanted Behavior • Don’t let the dog burst out the crate or door • Don’t let them drag you out the door at walk time • Don’t offer comfort or affection during barking, whining, or anxious behavior Don’t Assume Early Behavior Is Permanent • Don’t judge a dog based on the first few days or weeks • Don’t panic over accidents, whining, or shutdown behavior—they’re normal during decompression Don’t Give Up • Don’t expect perfection immediately • Don’t be discouraged by setbacks—they’re part of the process