How Long Does It Take a German Shepherd to Get Used to a New Home?

When adopting or rehoming a pet, you might ask, “How long does it take a German Shepherd to get used to a new home?” You might assume it only takes a few days for a dog to realize they’re safe and loved, but the truth is that it takes time for a dog to decompress after a move and to settle into a new routine. For some dogs, it can take a few months to fully become their best self in their new home.

Why does it take so long? 

Anyone who works in rescue has seen dogs returned after a few days or a few weeks because they just weren’t fitting in. Sadly, this means the dog has to start back at square one looking for a new home and that the adopters who returned the dog have to restart their search for a new pet.

With a little patience and training, it’s very likely that most German Shepherds will learn their adopter’s routine and become a wonderful pet. That’s why it’s so important not to give up too soon.

But why does it take so long for a dog to get used to a new home?

Dogs are creatures of habit, so change isn’t always easy for them. They need to adjust to the idea that this is their new home and they’ll need time to learn new routines.

A few tips 

Here are a few tips for a smooth transition:

• If you’re adopting a dog who is already in a home, don’t drag out the goodbye from the family giving up the dog.

• Make the handover quick and pleasant.

• Give the dog a blanket or other items with familiar scents for the first couple of weeks.

• If you’re going to change their food, do it gradually.

• If the dog seems resistant or fearful about certain routines (such as crating), don’t force it in a way that traumatizes the dog. Understand that you might have to start training from scratch.  

With time and patience, your German Shepherd will learn what’s expected of them and will make a wonderful addition to your home.