Adjustment can look uneven
A new dog may eat slowly, watch every movement, follow one person, hide, sleep heavily, or seem restless. Early behavior often changes from hour to hour.
Recovery is a useful measure
Notice whether the dog eventually rests, accepts food, sniffs, approaches, drinks, or explores. The presence of recovery suggests the nervous system can move out of alert mode.
Ongoing distress stays rigid
Very little rest, persistent pacing, panic when alone, constant vigilance, worsening appetite, or no improvement across days deserves closer assessment.
What to avoid
Keep the response gentle.
Avoid repeatedly exposing the dog to feared situations to make them “get used to it.”
Safety boundary
When to get more help.
Contact a veterinarian for sudden behavior change, prolonged appetite loss, pain, gastrointestinal signs, or severe distress.