Understanding Your New Companion: The Adjustment Period
When most people adopt a dog, they often expect immediate excitement from their new furry friend, assuming the pup will be overjoyed upon arriving at their forever home. However, that isn’t always the case, and this can sometimes lead to confusion and even concern for new owners. The truth is, there’s usually nothing to worry about.
Dogs who spend a significant amount of time in shelters often endure environments that are loud, crowded, and offer very little room to move freely. This constant sensory overload can be incredibly stressful for them. Therefore, upon moving into a new, unfamiliar home, they simply need time to adjust, to decompress, and to learn their new routine. This California woman experienced this firsthand when she adopted her dog, initially confused by the pup’s quiet demeanor, only to later learn the true reason behind her behavior.
A Husky’s Quiet Beginning: Voda’s Initial Days
When Ty Vaissa first brought her newly adopted husky, Voda, to her home in California, she fully anticipated an energetic, vocal, and outgoing companion. Given the breed’s reputation, such behavior would be entirely expected. However, that’s not what happened at all. For the entire first day, Voda did little more than lie on the blankets and a comfy pillow, hardly moving from her chosen spot. Ty, wanting to avoid making her new pup feel uncomfortable or pressured, simply allowed her to rest there for the time being.
This unexpected quietness confused Ty, prompting her to post a short clip on TikTok, asking the online community for insights. The responses she received were incredibly useful and shed light on Voda’s behavior. As one person wisely commented, “She went from a very loud, very stressful environment to a new place that is significantly more chill. I imagine you will be having the typical husky crazies sooner rather than later!” This highlights a crucial point: when dogs transition between environments, they invariably need time to acclimate. Voda was no exception to this natural adjustment period.
Another insightful comment introduced a vital guideline for new pet owners: “Remember the 3:3:3 rule! 3 days to settle in, 3 weeks to develop a routine, 3 months until they feel comfortable at your home. Depending on her age, she will probably show more personality as she…” This simple rule offers a practical framework for understanding a dog’s adaptation process.
The Blossom of Trust: Voda’s True Personality Emerges
This “3:3:3 rule” is an incredibly important guideline for any new pet owner to remember and pay close attention to when adopting a dog. Some people might feel disheartened if their dog doesn’t immediately warm up to their new home, leading them, tragically, to return the dog to the shelter. However, the truth is that every single pup, regardless of age or breed, simply needs patience, understanding, and, most importantly, time to adjust and feel safe.
Shortly after posting her initial clip and receiving this valuable advice, Ty decided to be patient and give Voda the space she needed. It only took a few days before Voda began to return to her usual, lively self. Ty later posted a follow-up video, showcasing Voda’s progress. In the clip, Ty calls Voda into a room, and the pup joyfully runs straight to her owner, her tail wagging, a clear sign of comfort and affection. Voda also began to enthusiastically play with other dogs outside, demonstrating her social nature and growing confidence. All signs indicated that things were indeed going for the better, a testament to Ty’s patience and Voda’s resilience.
Ty was overjoyed that everything turned out so wonderfully. Her initial concern for the pup was warranted, reflecting her deep care and commitment to Voda’s well-being. This heartwarming story serves as a valuable reminder that a quiet beginning doesn’t mean a lack of love or excitement to come. It simply means a new companion is processing a massive life change. I sincerely hope that this adorable husky gets to live an amazing life, filled with joy, and embarks on many wonderful adventures with her new, understanding mom.
