Creating a Calm Environment​

Why Calm Matters

Dogs coming from shelters often arrive overwhelmed — new smells, new people, new sounds. The calmer their new environment, the faster they can decompress and begin to feel safe. Your home doesn’t have to be silent — just predictable, gentle, and patient.

What You Can Do

Set Up a Safe Spot

Give your dog a designated place to rest, like:

  • A quiet corner with a crate or bed
  • A soft blanket and familiar-smelling item (if possible)
  • Away from loud TVs, kids’ play areas, or doorways
Pro Tip

Don’t force them to use it — let them discover it on their own.

Control the Noise

  • Keep voices low and movements slow
  • Turn off sudden alerts like loud phone notifications
  • Consider playing calming music (there are even dog playlists on Spotify!)

Manage the Scents

Dogs process the world through scent. Introduce:

  • Your scent (leave a worn shirt nearby)
  • Scent items from any other pets, placed at a distance at first

Limit the Space at First

Too much room can be overwhelming. Let them start in one or two rooms and gradually explore more of the home.

Keep the Human Traffic Low

  • Avoid having visitors over for the first few days
  • Introduce household members slowly, one at a time
  • Let the dog come to you — don’t chase or reach quickly

What to Watch For

Every dog is different. You may notice:

  • Shaking, hiding, or panting
  • Pacing or lip licking
  • Sleeping a lot (this is a good sign — they’re relaxing)

All of these are normal. Just give them space, time, and kindness.

Final Tip: Keep the First 3 Days Low-Key

Focus On:

  • A predictable daily rhythm
  • Calm routines (feeding, short potty walks)
  • Soft words

The calm you create now lays the foundation for a trusting bond later.

Creating a Calm Environment ➝