Bringing a foster dog into your home can be rewarding and also challenging. Many foster dogs need time, patience, and guidance to learn how to feel safe. These six behavior issues come up often with foster dogs. The good news: with consistency and kindness you can turn these struggles into success stories.
1. Anxiety and Uncertainty
Many foster dogs arrive feeling unsure about everything. New sights, smells, routines, and people can cause stress. This can show up as pacing, hiding, shaking, or avoiding interactions. Help them feel secure by giving them a quiet space to relax, such as a crate or a designated room where they will not be disturbed. Use a calm voice and stick to a predictable daily routine. Introduce new things slowly and reward calm behavior.
A helpful tip is to schedule a short walk or play session followed by quiet time. A little activity can release nervous energy and make it easier for the dog to settle.
2. Over Arousal: Zoomies, Jumping, Too Much Excitement
Excitement is natural, especially in a new environment. But when excitement becomes constant jumping, mouthy behavior, or zoomies in the house, it can overwhelm you and the dog. Try this:
Before greetings, ask for a sit or down and reward the calm moment.
- If the dog jumps, turn away and ignore until all four paws are on the ground. Then offer praise or a treat.
- Add planned calm periods into the day. After exercise, provide a chew toy or puzzle to encourage relaxation.
- Keep goodbyes and returns calm. If every entrance feels like a party, the dog becomes overstimulated and harder to settle.
3. Pulling and Leash Frustration
Many foster dogs have not learned how to walk politely on a leash. Pulling, weaving, or freezing on walks is very common. A secure and comfortable harness can help. During the walk, pause when the leash becomes tight. Wait for the dog to move closer or look back at you, then reward. Practice short training walks instead of long casual strolls at first. This teaches attention and builds confidence.
4. Fear Based Reactivity Toward People, Dogs, or Sounds
Growling, barking, snapping, or freezing can be signs of fear, not aggression. Many foster dogs have had limited socialization or stressful past experiences. Your goal is to help them feel safer.
- Identify what triggers the reaction, such as a stranger, a dog passing by, or a loud noise.
- Keep distance from the trigger so the dog can stay calm, then reward any relaxed behavior.
- Slowly increase exposure over time while keeping the dog comfortable and supported.
- Give them a safe space to retreat when feeling overwhelmed.
If the reactivity continues or becomes unpredictable, consult with a certified dog trainer or behavior specialist for guidance.
5. Resource Guarding and Possessiveness
Some foster dogs protect food, toys, or resting spaces because they may have gone without in the past. Punishing this behavior makes it worse. Instead, help the dog feel secure.
- Feed in a quiet, low pressure area.
- Occasionally drop a treat into their bowl while they eat, so your presence feels positive.
- Train a gentle “drop it” or “trade” cue with high value treats to show them that giving something up leads to something good.
The goal is to build trust, not fear. With time, most dogs learn that resources are safe and available.
6. Escape Attempts and Testing Boundaries
New environments can cause dogs to test boundaries. Some may try to slip out doors, dash outside, or explore beyond the yard. Prevention and structure help keep them safe.
- Double check doors and gates. Keep the dog on a leash in new areas.
- Teach “wait” at doorways. Ask for a sit, open the door only a little, and reward patience.
- Use baby gates or a leash indoors during the first days to prevent slipping through open doors.
- Practice name recall with plenty of reward and praise each time they come to you.
This keeps your foster dog safe while also teaching the skills they will need in their future home.
Final Word
Fostering changes lives, and your patience is a major part of that transformation. With understanding, structure, and gentle training, your foster dog can learn new habits and gain confidence. Even small improvements deserve celebration. Each step forward helps prepare them for success in their forever home.
If you need help with any behavior concerns, reach out to We Foster Dogs. We are here to support you and your foster.
