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Fur Get Me Not often uploads valuable resources and updates to help you connect, train and communicate better with your fur babies.

Rescue dog settling into a new home with owner

How to Help a Rescue Dog Settle Into a New Home

Bringing home a rescue dog is exciting, but for your new dog, it can also be a huge adjustment. New people, smells, sounds, routines and expectations can be overwhelming.

If you want to help a rescue dog settle into a new home, one of the most important things you can give them is time. Rather than trying to show your new dog their whole new world at once, start small and allow trust to develop at their pace.

1. Keep the first few days quiet

It can be tempting to introduce your new rescue dog to friends, family, neighbours and the local dog park straight away. However, too much too soon can increase stress.

Instead, keep the first few days calm and predictable. Give your dog time to explore their new home, learn where they sleep and begin getting to know you.

2. Create a safe space

Give your rescue dog somewhere they can retreat without being disturbed. This might be a comfortable bed, crate, quiet room or protected corner of the house.

Importantly, let your dog choose when they want interaction. A dog who walks away, hides or goes to their bed may simply be asking for some space.

3. Establish a predictable routine

Routine can help a rescue dog settle into a new home because life starts becoming more predictable.

Try to keep meals, walks, toilet breaks, bedtime and quiet periods relatively consistent. Your dog begins to learn what happens next and what is expected of them.

4. Don’t rush walks and socialisation

More socialisation isn’t always better.

For a new rescue dog who is already overwhelmed, busy parks, cafés, shopping areas or interactions with unfamiliar dogs can add even more pressure.

Start with quieter environments and watch your dog’s body language. Gradually introduce new experiences when your dog is ready.

5. Use positive reinforcement

Reward the behaviours you want to see rather than focusing on mistakes.

Food, play, praise and access to things your dog enjoys can all be used to reinforce good choices. Positive reinforcement also helps your rescue dog learn that interacting with you leads to good things.

Avoid punishment, particularly for behaviour caused by fear or anxiety. Punishing the warning signs doesn’t address the reason your dog is uncomfortable.

6. Remember that settling in isn’t always linear

You may have heard of the 3-3-3 rule for rescue dogs: three days to decompress, three weeks to learn the routine and three months to feel at home.

It’s a useful reminder that adjustment takes time, but it isn’t a rule. Every dog is an individual. Some settle quickly, while others need considerably longer.

You may also notice new behaviours appearing as your dog’s confidence increases. That doesn’t necessarily mean things are getting worse — you may simply be seeing more of your dog’s normal behaviour.

When should you get professional help?

If your new rescue dog is showing significant fear, anxiety, aggression, guarding, separation-related behaviour or difficulty coping with everyday situations, getting help early can make a big difference.

At Fur Get Me Not Dog Training & Behaviour, we work with dogs and their people using positive, evidence-based behaviour and training strategies.

If you’re struggling to help your rescue dog settle into their new home, you don’t have to wait until the behaviour becomes a serious problem or if you just want reassurance and guidance to help them adjust. Get in touch to arrange a consultation and start building your dog’s confidence from the beginning.

My Dog Attacked Another Dog: What to Do Next (And What Not to Do)

Few things are more frightening than watching your dog attack another dog. Many owners are left feeling shocked, guilty and wondering if their dog has suddenly become aggressive.

The good news is that one incident does not automatically mean your dog is dangerous. In many cases, there are underlying reasons for the behaviour, and with the right support, many dogs can learn safer ways to respond.

Step 1: Stay Calm and Get Everyone to Safety

Your first priority is to safely separate the dogs and prevent another incident. Once everyone is safe:

Check both dogs for injuries.
Exchange contact details with the other owner if required.
Secure your dog to prevent another escape.
Seek veterinary attention if either dog has been injured.

Avoid yelling, hitting or punishing your dog after the incident. Punishment can increase fear, anxiety and aggression, making future behaviour worse.

Step 2: Ask Yourself What Happened Before the Attack

Dogs rarely bite “out of nowhere.”

Think about:

Was your dog protecting their home or yard?
Were they on lead or behind a fence?
Did another dog approach too closely?
Was your dog startled?
Were there food, toys or people nearby?
Has your dog shown signs of stress or discomfort before?

Understanding what happened immediately before the incident is often the key to preventing it from happening again.

Step 3: Prevent It Happening Again

Until you understand why the behaviour occurred:

Keep gates securely closed.
Check fencing regularly.
Walk your dog on lead.
Avoid situations that may trigger another incident.
Don’t allow your dog to rehearse the behaviour.

Every successful repetition of unwanted behaviour makes it more likely to happen again.

Step 4: Have Your Dog Professionally Assessed

Not all dog aggression is the same.

Some dogs react because they are fearful.

Others become frustrated.

Some are protecting territory or resources.

Pain or underlying medical conditions can also contribute to behavioural changes.

Because every dog is different, a personalised behaviour assessment is the most effective way to identify the underlying cause and develop an appropriate training plan.

Can Dogs Improve After an Attack?

Yes—many can.

The outcome depends on factors including:

Why the behaviour occurred.
Your dog’s learning history.
Management at home.
Consistency of training.
How early intervention begins.

The goal isn’t simply to stop the behaviour. It’s to change the emotions and learning that are driving it, creating safer and more reliable behaviour over the long term.

Avoid Quick Fixes

Unfortunately, dog training is an unregulated industry. Anyone can call themselves a dog trainer, regardless of their qualifications or methods.

Be cautious of anyone promising instant results or relying on punishment, intimidation or fear.

Evidence shows that science-based, force-free training is effective for teaching new behaviours while protecting your dog’s welfare and strengthening your relationship.

When Should You Seek Help?

If your dog has:

Attacked another dog.
Tried to attack another dog.
Growled, lunged or snapped.
Become increasingly reactive on walks.
Escaped your property to chase other dogs.

It’s worth seeking professional advice sooner rather than later. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.

25 Signs of Anxiety in Dogs: The Subtle Signals Most Owners Miss

Many dog owners recognise obvious signs of anxiety, such as shaking or hiding, but anxiety in dogs often appears in much more subtle ways. If left unaddressed, anxiety can develop into reactivity, aggression, destructive behaviour, or a decline in your dog’s overall wellbeing.

Understanding the signs of anxiety in dogs is the first step towards helping your dog feel safe, confident, and relaxed.

What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?

Dog anxiety can develop for many reasons, including:

Lack of socialisation during puppyhood
Previous traumatic experiences
Sudden changes in routine
Moving house
Separation from family members
Loud noises such as storms and fireworks
Pain or underlying medical conditions

Every dog experiences stress differently, which is why anxiety can sometimes be difficult to recognise.

25 Common Signs of Anxiety in Dogs

Some signs are obvious, while others are often mistaken for stubbornness, excitement, or bad behaviour.

Physical Signs

Excessive panting when not hot
Trembling or shaking
Yawning repeatedly
Lip licking when food is not present
Dilated pupils
Excessive shedding during stressful situations
Pacing or inability to settle
Drooling
Loss of appetite
Digestive upset or diarrhoea

Behavioural Signs

Following owners constantly
Hiding behind people or furniture
Excessive barking
Whining or crying
Destructive chewing
Digging
Escaping from yards or crates
Hypervigilance and constantly scanning the environment
Reactivity towards dogs, people, bikes, or cars
Growling when feeling overwhelmed
Difficulty focusing during training
Sudden clinginess
Restlessness at night
Increased startle responses
Avoiding situations they previously enjoyed

When Anxiety Becomes Reactivity

One of the most misunderstood signs of anxiety in dogs is reactivity.

Many people assume a barking, lunging, or growling dog is being aggressive. In reality, many reactive dogs are experiencing fear, uncertainty, or stress.

When dogs feel overwhelmed, they often use barking, lunging, or growling to create distance from whatever is making them uncomfortable.

Understanding the emotional cause behind the behaviour is essential for long-term improvement.

How to Help an Anxious Dog

If you notice signs of anxiety in your dog:

Avoid forcing them into situations that overwhelm them
Maintain a predictable routine
Provide opportunities for enrichment and mental stimulation
Reward calm behaviour
Use positive reinforcement training methods
Seek professional support if the behaviour is worsening

Early intervention often leads to faster and more successful outcomes.

When to Seek Professional Help

If your dog’s anxiety is affecting their quality of life, causing reactivity, aggression, or making daily activities difficult, professional support can make a significant difference.

A qualified dog behaviour specialist can identify the underlying causes of your dog’s anxiety and develop a tailored plan to help them feel safer and more confident.

Need Help With an Anxious or Reactive Dog?

At Fur Get Me Not Dog Training & Behaviour, we help dogs and their families overcome anxiety, fear, and reactivity using evidence-based, positive reinforcement methods.

Whether you’re located in Brisbane, Logan, Redlands, or anywhere in Australia through our online consultations, we’re here to help your dog thrive.

What to Look for in a Dog Sitter Over the Christmas Period | Dog Sitter Brisbane

The Christmas period is a busy and joyful time, but it can also be stressful when you need to be away from home and want the best care for your furry family member. If you’re searching for a dog sitter Brisbane who can provide reliable, loving care over the holidays, here’s what to look for to ensure your dog feels happy and secure.

1. Experience and Qualifications

Choose a dog sitter who has solid experience handling dogs of all breeds and temperaments. Look for certifications in pet care and any professional training programs. Experienced sitters understand dog behaviour and can respond calmly to anxiety or emergencies.

2. Trustworthiness and References

This is your pet’s well-being, so you want someone trustworthy. Ask for references or reviews from previous clients in Brisbane. Reliable sitters will gladly provide testimonials and communication about their care approach.

3. Personalized Attention

The best dog sitters customise their care to your dog’s individual needs and routine. Ask if they will follow your feeding, walking, play, and medication schedules closely. A sitter who offers daily updates and photos will give you peace of mind while you are away.

4. Safety and Comfort

Ensure the sitter provides a safe environment—in your home is always going to be better for your pet. Confirm that the sitter will supervise your dog during walks and plan to protect against injury or unexpected encounters. Check that the dog sitter Brisbane has a clear plan for emergencies and access to your vet.

5. Availability Over the Holiday Period

Christmas is a peak time for dog sitters. Book early and verify the sitter’s availability for your exact dates.

We have some availability left for in-sitting services in your home this Christmas period. Contact us soon to secure your booking and ensure your dog receives loving, attentive care in their familiar surroundings.

If you’re in Brisbane and seeking a professional, trustworthy dog sitter over the Christmas period, prioritise these points to find the perfect care for your dog. A thoughtful sitter ensures your pet’s comfort and happiness, letting you enjoy the season stress-free!

Searching for a reliable dog sitter Brisbane? Contact us today to schedule your holiday bookings!

Managing Reactive Dogs: Expert Tips for Brisbane Pet Owners

If you have a reactive dog, you know how challenging it can be to manage their behaviour and keep walks and interactions safe and positive. At Fur Get Me Not, based in Mount Gravatt and serving Brisbane, Logan, and Redlands, we specialize in helping owners manage reactive dogs through private training and behaviour consultations.

What Is a Reactive Dog?

Reactive dogs often respond to stimuli such as other dogs, people, or environmental triggers with barking, lunging, or anxious behaviours. This reactivity is usually rooted in fear, frustration, or overexcitement and can make walks and social situations stressful for both dog and owner.

Why Managing Reactive Dogs Matters

Without proper management, reactivity can worsen, leading to safety concerns or strained relationships. Early intervention through positive, professional training helps your dog learn calm responses and builds your confidence as an owner.

Tips for Managing Reactive Dogs

Understand Your Dog’s Triggers: Identifying what causes your dog’s reactivity is the first step. Whether it’s other dogs, loud noises, or certain environments, knowing the triggers helps create a training plan.
Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward calm behaviour consistently. Positive dog behaviour consults focus on encouraging good habits rather than punishment, which can increase anxiety and worsen reactivity.
Create Safe Spaces: At home and in the community, establish safe zones where your dog feels secure. This helps reduce stress and provides retreat areas during training.
Gradual Exposure: Controlled, gradual exposure to triggers under professional guidance helps your dog build tolerance without becoming overwhelmed.
Seek Professional Help: Managing reactive dogs often requires tailored strategies. Our behaviour consultations and private training services in Brisbane and surrounds provide expert support to transform your dog’s responses.

Why Choose Fur Get Me Not?

We pride ourselves on our positive, professional approach and deep understanding of reactive dog behaviour. Whether in-home, in the community, or online, we help owners across Brisbane, Logan, and Redlands achieve lasting results through customised training.

Learning how to manage reactive dogs can transform your dog’s behaviour and your relationship. Contact Fur Get Me Not today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a calmer, happier dog.

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