Welcome. This is the New Dog Journey—a simple, step-by-step path from “Should I get a dog?” to “We’re thriving together.” Each step is designed to be practical, beginner-friendly, and low-overwhelm.
Start here
Step 1 is the only thing you need to do first. It will save you time, money, and heartbreak if now isn’t the right moment.
Start Step 1: Should You Get a Dog? Lifestyle + Budget Reality Check
How to use this journey
- Do one step at a time. Don’t buy everything up front.
- If you feel stuck, stop and do the next smallest action (usually a checklist item).
- Everything is written for adoption-first families, but the planning applies to any responsible placement.
Expectation reset (this matters)
Many newly adopted dogs need time to settle. You’ll hear guidelines like the “3–3–3 rule” (days, weeks, months). It’s not a promise—just a reminder to go slow and keep life predictable. Step 9 covers this in detail.
The New Dog Journey timeline
- Before you adopt: Steps 1–6
- Bring your dog home: Step 7
- Stabilize routines: Steps 8–10
Steps (what we’ll cover)
Step 1: Should You Get a Dog? Lifestyle + Budget Reality Check
Step 2: Choose the Right Dog for Your Home (energy, size, temperament)
Step 3: Prep Your Home (room-by-room setup + safety)
Step 4: Supplies Checklist (what you actually need before Day 1)
Step 5: How to Find a Dog (shelters, rescues, foster networks, listings)
Step 6: Meet-and-Greet + Questions to Ask (and red flags)
Step 7: Bringing Your Dog Home (First 24 Hours Plan)
Step 8: The First Week Schedule (sleep, potty, alone time, routines)
Step 9: The First 30 Days (Decompression + the 3–3–3 Rule)
Step 10: Long-Term Success (habits, enrichment, health, community)
Quick prep checklist (before you start looking at dogs)
- Confirm housing rules: pets allowed, fees, weight limits, breed restrictions (if any).
- Pick your realistic daily routine: work hours, exercise capacity, travel frequency.
- Decide your “must-haves” and “no-gos” (example: must be okay with kids; no extreme separation anxiety).
- Create an emergency plan: who can help if you get sick or have to travel?
- Set a starter budget for your first month + an emergency cushion.
Gear to consider (links optional)
You do not need to buy everything today. This is just a preview so you know what’s useful later.
Leash + harness: secure fit, comfortable, and escape-resistant.
ID setup: collar + ID tag; check microchip steps after adoption.
Home management: baby gate, playpen, or crate (for decompression + safety). Not a store item.
Cleaning: enzyme cleaner for accidents (it will happen).
Food + water setup: simple bowls; optional slow feeder for fast eaters.
Enrichment: lick mat or stuffed toy to help your dog settle.
Last reviewed: January 2026