{"id":99017,"date":"2025-08-07T09:00:47","date_gmt":"2025-08-07T16:00:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/?p=99017"},"modified":"2025-08-26T10:33:42","modified_gmt":"2025-08-26T17:33:42","slug":"3-3-3-guideline","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/blog\/3-3-3-guideline\/","title":{"rendered":"The 3-3-3 Guideline"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Adopting a dog is a wonderful way to add love and joy to your life. But just like people, dogs need time to adjust when they enter a new environment. That\u2019s where the 3-3-3 guideline comes in.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">What is the 3-3-3 guideline?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The 3-3-3 guideline is a helpful guideline for bringing a rescue dog home and helping them settle in. This guideline splits this transition into three stages:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The first <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">3 days<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> are about adjusting to new surroundings.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The next <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">3 weeks<\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> are for building a routine and starting to develop foundational skills through positive reinforcement training.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"5\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The first <\/span><b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">3 months <\/span><\/b><span data-contrast=\"auto\">are about deepening trust and building confidence through continued training.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Every dog is different, and not all dogs will follow this timeline exactly. The key is to be patient, give your dog space, and let them adjust at their own pace.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Why is the 3-3-3 guideline important?<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Moving into a new home is a big change for a dog, especially one coming from a shelter. The 3-3-3 guideline helps you and your dog navigate this adjustment period. By keeping the 3-3-3 guideline in mind, you can:<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Set realistic expectations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Avoid overwhelming your dog with too much too soon.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Help your dog feel safe, secure, and loved.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"4\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Give your dog the best chance to become a happy, well-behaved member of your family.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-99026 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline5.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline5.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline5-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The 3-3-3 guideline: what to expect<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3 aria-level=\"3\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The first 3 days<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Be patient and positive<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 aria-level=\"4\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">What your dog is feeling:<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Your new dog is decompressing and taking in their new world. They may feel scared, unsure, or overwhelmed. Imagine if you moved to a new city or started a new job. Everything would be unfamiliar, and you\u2019d need some time to get settled. During this time, your dog might hide, avoid eye contact, or not eat much. These behaviors may be normal responses to fear and stress.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 aria-level=\"4\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tips for this stage:<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Provide a calm and quiet home environment to help set your dog up for success.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Be gentle, speak softly, and focus on positive reinforcement instead of punishment.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Create a safe space where your dog can seek comfort, like a crate, cozy bed, or separate room. Help your dog understand that this is their own space where they can rest uninterrupted. <\/span><b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Note:<\/span><\/i><\/b><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> Not all dogs need to be crate trained. If your dog is unable to relax in a crate, do not force them to do so.<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"3\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Avoid forcing attention, especially when your\u00a0dog is adjusting to their new home. Instead, let them come to you and allow your dog to choose if they want to have interactions or not. As you spend time with your new dog, it&#8217;s important to learn your dog\u2019s body language and understand their comfort level in different situations.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-99022\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline3.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline3.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline3-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 aria-level=\"3\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The next 3 weeks<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Celebrate little wins<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 aria-level=\"4\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">What your dog is feeling:<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">They\u2019re starting to feel more comfortable and may begin showing their true personality. Some behavior challenges may pop up, like barking or chewing. While these behaviors can be normal as your dog adjusts, sometimes behavior changes can be a sign of a physical or behavioral disorder. If these behaviors are escalating or if you see other signs like decreased appetite, lethargy, social withdrawal, or vomiting, please see your veterinarian.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 aria-level=\"4\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tips for this stage:<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Start positive reinforcement training, ensuring your trainer uses rewards and does not use tools like shock or prong collars.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Be patient and keep sessions short and fun.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"2\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Provide ample daily enrichment opportunities. Different dogs will enjoy different activities, such as walks, off-leash play in a controlled outdoor setting, short training sessions, playing with toys, and enjoying long-lasting food-stuffed treats.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-99018\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline1.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline1.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/p>\n<h3 aria-level=\"2\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">The first 3 months<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><i><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Strengthen your bond and build trust\u00a0<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 aria-level=\"4\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">What your dog is feeling:<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">By now, your dog feels more at home. They\u2019re starting to trust you and develop a routine. You\u2019ll likely see their true personality shine through! This is the perfect time to continue building your bond.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h4 aria-level=\"4\"><i><span data-contrast=\"none\">Tips for this stage:<\/span><\/i><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:80,&quot;335559739&quot;:40}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"1\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Continue to provide ample enrichment opportunities as you learn more about your dog\u2019s likes and needs.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"2\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Keep training and interactions fun and consistent. Remain patient and don&#8217;t force your dog into situations that seem uncomfortable to them.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"3\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Slowly introduce them to other pets and people. Try new experiences like car rides, park visits, or short trips.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-setsize=\"-1\" data-leveltext=\"\uf0b7\" data-font=\"Symbol\" data-listid=\"1\" data-list-defn-props=\"{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;\uf0b7&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}\" data-aria-posinset=\"4\" data-aria-level=\"1\"><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Celebrate progress, no matter how small.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-99020\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"600\" height=\"400\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline2.jpg 600w, https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/3-3-3-guideline2-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px\" \/><\/p>\n<h2 aria-level=\"2\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Takeaways<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{&quot;134245418&quot;:true,&quot;134245529&quot;:true,&quot;335559738&quot;:160,&quot;335559739&quot;:80}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Adopting a rescue dog is a rewarding experience, but it does take time, patience, and love. The 3-3-3 guideline is helpful for understanding your dog\u2019s transition and helping them feel safe and secure in their new home.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">Remember, not every dog will follow the 3-3-3 timeline perfectly. What matters most is that you\u2019re there for your dog as they adjust to their new home. In all circumstances, monitor your dog&#8217;s comfort level and willingness to eat treats. If they seem uncomfortable or start refusing treats, this is a good indicator that they are not comfortable with the situation and should take a step back.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">If you have questions or need help, don\u2019t hesitate to reach out to our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/adoptions\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Adoptions team<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\">. And if you run into behavior challenges, our <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sfspca.org\/veterinary-care\/veterinary-behavior-service\/\"><span data-contrast=\"none\">Behavior team<\/span><\/a><span data-contrast=\"auto\"> is here to support you.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span data-contrast=\"auto\">The San Francisco SPCA is with you every step of the way. Together, we can help your new dog feel loved, confident, and ready to thrive.<\/span><span data-ccp-props=\"{}\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Adopting a dog is a wonderful way to add love and joy to your life. But just like people, dogs need time to adjust when they enter a new environment. [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":19,"featured_media":99024,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_relevanssi_hide_post":"","_relevanssi_hide_content":"","_relevanssi_pin_for_all":"","_relevanssi_pin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_unpin_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_keywords":"","_relevanssi_related_include_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_exclude_ids":"","_relevanssi_related_no_append":"","_relevanssi_related_not_related":"","_relevanssi_related_posts":"","_relevanssi_noindex_reason":"","_price":"","_stock":"","_tribe_ticket_header":"","_tribe_default_ticket_provider":"","_ticket_start_date":"","_ticket_end_date":"","_tribe_ticket_show_description":"","_tribe_ticket_show_not_going":false,"_tribe_ticket_use_global_stock":"","_tribe_ticket_global_stock_level":"","_global_stock_mode":"","_global_stock_cap":"","_tribe_rsvp_for_event":"","_tribe_ticket_going_count":"","_tribe_ticket_not_going_count":"","_tribe_tickets_list":"[]","_tribe_ticket_has_attendee_info_fields":false,"footnotes":"","_tec_slr_enabled":"","_tec_slr_layout":""},"categories":[9],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-99017","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.7 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The 3-3-3 Guideline - San Francisco SPCA<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Just like people, dogs need time to adjust when they enter a new environment. 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