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A three-panel graphic showing a rescue dog's progress at 3 days, 3 weeks, and 3 months. We at Just Making Smiles are experienced in helping nervous and newly adopted dogs adjust to their new homes

Helping Nervous or Newly Adopted Dogs Adjust: Tips from a Foster and Pet Pro​​

New home jitters are real—for dogs and for their humans. Whether your pup is newly adopted, or just feeling unsure, here are a few things we’ve found helpful after fostering over 30 full-time dogs and many more temporary guests:
 
Give them space at first. Let them explore at their own pace without pressure.
 
Stick to a simple routine. Regular meals, walks, and quiet time help create predictability.
 
Reward calm behavior. Don’t just correct the nervous stuff—praise the good moments too.
 
Use a crate as a comfort zone. Not a punishment. Dogs often feel safer with a space to retreat to.
 
 
Every dog is different, but with time, patience, and kindness, most dogs come out of their shell beautifully. We’ve seen it again and again—and there’s nothing more rewarding.

An orange tabby cat and a Dalmatian sleeping peacefully together on a couch. We at Just Making Smiles share tips on helping nervous and newly adopted pets adjust to their homes.

Helping Nervous or Newly Adopted Dogs Adjust: Tips from a Foster and Pet Pro​​

Dogs, cats, and a whole lot of patience. Bringing home a new dog is exciting—but if you already have pets at home, it’s important to plan introductions carefully. Read more

A happy, scruffy sheepadoodle dog smiling outdoors. We at Just Making Smiles help explain the difference between dogs getting along at home versus being fully dog social.

When “Gets Along at Home” Doesn’t Mean “Dog Social”

 One of the most common things I hear when discussing daycare or boarding readiness is, “Oh, my dog gets along great with our other dog Read more

Three dogs gently greeting each other through a fence on a grassy yard. We at Just Making Smiles want you to know exactly what to expect when your dog boards with us.

What to Expect When Your Dog Boards at Just Making Smiles

Thinking of boarding your dog with us? Here's a look at what their stay will be like—from the very first visit to their final tail wag. Read more

A black and white dog standing on a patio with other dogs relaxing in the background. We at Just Making Smiles love sharing a behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life of our pet care team.

A Day in the Life of a Pet Sitter: Behind the Scenes at Just Making Smiles

Ever wonder what goes on behind the scenes at Just Making Smiles? Here’s a little peek into one of our days. We usually start bright Read more

An Australian Shepherd sitting attentively next to an overnight bag and dog food. We at Just Making Smiles provide a helpful packing list for when your dog boards with us.

What to Bring When Your Dog Boards With Us

Getting ready for your dog’s stay? Here’s what you actually need to bring—and what we kindly ask you Read more

A golden retriever dog and a black lab dog enjoying a leashed walk together on a sunny path. We at Just Making Smiles explain why daily walks are essential for dogs, even if you have a big yard.

Why Dogs Need Daily Walks—Even If You Have a Big Yard

Let’s start with the obvious exception:
If your dog has a medical condition that limits their mobility or stamina, daily walks might Read more

Two dogs taking a refreshing water break from a green bowl outdoors. We at Just Making Smiles prioritize hot weather safety to keep dogs happy and healthy during summer.

Hot Weather Safety Tips for Happy, Healthy Dogs

As the summer heat settles in, it’s important to keep your pup’s well-being top of mind—especially during outdoor time and walks. Whether you’re heading out for a quick Read more

A happy golden dog running on a mud-free lawn, featured in the Just Making Smiles blog post about creating a dog-friendly backyard oasis.

Creating a Dog-Friendly (and Mud-Free!) Backyard Oasis

Summer means more time outside, and if your dogs love doing zoomies in the yard, you know how quickly a beautiful lawn can turn into a muddy obstacle course. Read more ➔

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