A Checklist for Making the Right Move—for You and the Dog

Adopting a rescue dog can be one of the most rewarding decisions you ever make. But it’s also a big commitment—especially when welcoming a pup who may come with a bit of baggage, a unique backstory, or extra needs. Before you fall in love with that soulful-eyed dog online, ask yourself: am I really ready?

Here’s a helpful checklist to make sure both you and your future dog start off on the right paw.

✅ 1. Do You Have Time to Commit?

Rescue dogs—especially in the first few months—require time, patience, and presence. You’ll need time for:

• Daily walks and mental enrichment
• Training and decompression
• Vet visits, meet-and-greets, and bonding
  If you’re swamped with work or travel, it may be worth waiting until life slows down.

✅ 2. Can You Be Patient With Setbacks?

Many rescue dogs go through a “honeymoon period” before showing their true behavior. Are you ready for accidents, fear-based reactions, or barking as they adjust? A rescue isn’t a ready-made dog—it’s a relationship that grows with time and trust.

✅ 3. Is Your Home Set Up for Success?

Do you have:

• A quiet, safe space for your new dog to decompress?
• A plan to manage introductions to other pets?
• Secure areas for walks, toileting, and downtime?
  City dwellers may need to think about elevators, busy sidewalks, or building rules, too.

✅ 4. Are You Willing to Invest in Training?

Even if your rescue dog is house-trained, every dog benefits from structured learning. Whether you’re dealing with leash reactivity, separation stress, or simply learning the basics, training is a must—especially for building trust.

✅ 5. Do You Understand the 3-3-3 Rule?

This golden rule helps set realistic expectations for adjusting:

• 3 days to decompress
• 3 weeks to start settling in
• 3 months to feel truly at home
  Progress isn’t linear, and your dog’s timeline may vary—but understanding this rule can help you stay grounded.

✅ 6. Can You Provide Financial Stability?

Vet bills, quality food, training, toys, gear—it adds up. Make sure you have the financial flexibility to handle both routine and unexpected costs.

✅ 7. Is Everyone in the Household on Board?

It takes a team. If your partner isn’t fully in, or your roommate is dog-wary, it can lead to confusion and inconsistency. Alignment on training, routines, and rules helps your dog feel secure.

✅ 8. Do You Want a Dog for the Right Reasons?

Be honest: are you hoping a dog will “fix” loneliness or fill an emotional gap? Rescue dogs can bring incredible joy—but they also require care, boundaries, and leadership. They’re not emotional support tools—they’re living beings with their own stories.

✅ 9. Are You Ready to Build Trust Over Time?

Many rescue dogs need time to feel safe. That means offering consistent routines, reading body language, and celebrating small wins. Trust isn’t earned overnight—but once it’s there, it’s life-changing.

Ready Doesn’t Mean Perfect—It Means Prepared

No one has all the answers before they adopt—but being honest about what you can offer sets both you and your future dog up for success. If you’ve gone through this checklist and feel ready to grow, learn, and commit—then a rescue dog might just be your next best friend.

Want support preparing for adoption or integrating your new dog into city life?
City Dogs Training & Behaviour Co. offers personalized programs for rescue dogs and the humans who love them.