An animal rescue charity that rescues over 2,000 dogs per year, Birmingham Dogs Home, and Europe’s leading pet GPS tracker, Kippy, are warning that more owners than ever are struggling with pet-related anxiety, commonly referred to as the 'puppy blues'.

The two organisations state that increasing pressures around work, finances and caring responsibilities are leaving many owners feeling overwhelmed after bringing a new pet home, which can, in some cases, impact the rehoming experience.

In 2024, researchers coined the term ‘puppy blues’ to describe the feelings of anxiety, stress and overwhelm that some new pet owners experience. The term has since become more widely recognised, highlighting that pet ownership – particularly for first-time owners – can be emotionally challenging.

Birmingham Dogs Home said, anecdotally, it has seen a rise in cases of pet owner anxiety – particularly as more workers return to the office and feel anxious about leaving their dogs alone for extended periods of time, which is supported by the fact that the UK is currently experiencing the highest rate of in-office working since before the pandemic.

This rise in pet owner anxiety is echoed by Kippy’s research which revealed that the leading motivation for people using pet trackers is to ensure the security and safety of their animal.

In the wake of World Day Against Pet Abandonment this weekend, Kippy and Birmingham Dogs Home have joined forces to share expert advice on navigating the puppy blues and curbing this rise in pet owner anxiety.

Understand the signsJenni Jefferies, Qualified Behaviourist from Birmingham Dogs Home said: "Bringing a new dog into your home, whether it's a young puppy or a rescue dog, is a huge change and it's completely normal to feel overwhelmed at times.

"We often talk about the excitement of welcoming a new pet, but not always about the challenges that can come with it. Sleepless nights, changes to your routine, training struggles, or simply adjusting to life with a new dog can leave some owners feeling stressed, anxious or even questioning whether they've made the right decision.

"If you're finding yourself feeling exhausted, emotional or worried about every little thing your dog does, you're certainly not alone. These feelings are more common than people realise and don't mean you're failing as an owner.

"The important thing is to recognise when you're struggling and reach out for support. With time, patience and the right guidance, both you and your dog can settle into your new life together and build a strong, lasting bond."

Follow the 3-3-3 ruleJenni continues: “The 3-3-3 rule is a tried-and-tested method recommended to owners after bringing a new pet home and can be a real lifesaver when experiencing pet-related anxiety or the 'puppy blues'.

“The rule suggests that, when it comes to a rescue animal, it typically takes them three days to decompress and stabilise, three weeks to learn and align with your routines, and three months to feel completely safe.

“Of course, every animal is different, but generally working within this timeframe can support the success of rescuing and rehabilitating animals – and helps mitigate the challenges that can come with the process.

“In those first three days, owners should focus on creating a calm, predictable environment, allowing their new pet space to settle in without overwhelming them with visitors, new experiences or too much handling. Establishing a quiet sleeping area, a consistent feeding routine and giving the animal time to observe their new surroundings can make a huge difference.

“By the three-week mark, many pets will start to feel more comfortable, and their true personality may begin to emerge. This is a good time to focus on building trust through positive reinforcement, introducing training, establishing household boundaries, and gently exposing them to new environments and experiences with security measures in place.

“After three months, many rescue animals will have developed a stronger bond with their owner and a better understanding of their new routine. At this stage, owners can focus on strengthening that relationship through ongoing training, enrichment activities, exercise and socialisation, helping their pet feel secure, confident and settled for the long term.

"The key thing to remember is that adjustment takes time. There will be good days and challenging days, but patience, consistency and realistic expectations can make all the difference for both pets and their owners."

Establish safety and routineIacopo Buccarelli, Brand Reputation Manager at Kippy added: “For the first few months, it’s best to lean into your life with your pet becoming ‘predictable’. This can help establish a routine and reduce feelings of anxiety for both pet and owner.

“Simple routines can make a big difference. Try to feed your pet at the same times each day, establish a consistent bedtime routine and introduce grooming, bathing and preventative treatments gradually.

“For dogs, setting a regular walk schedule can help them feel more secure and understand what to expect from their day. For cats that will eventually spend time outdoors, it’s important not to rush the process. Once they’ve had time to settle into their new home, start with short, monitored periods outside so they can gradually become familiar with their surroundings before being given more freedom to explore.

“It’s very natural to feel anxious about your pet’s safety, especially when they’re new to you and your home. Practical measures that improve confidence and peace of mind, such as training plans, support networks, and pet GPS technology, can help reduce anxiety during the adjustment period.”

Iacopo from Kippy added: “The latter also allows you to enjoy guilt-free breaks and feel more at ease whilst you’re working in the office, knowing where your pet is and that ultimately, they are safe.

“This is the exact reason that Kippy was developed, to provide reassurance to new pet owners navigating the adoption or rehoming process, ensuring peace of mind as their pets adjust to their new homes and new lives.”

Lay the foundations for integration with everyday lifeJenni from Birmingham Dogs Home said: “Beyond the early adjustment period, training plays a crucial role in helping rescue dogs settle into long-term family life and feel secure in a variety of environments.

“For many owners, challenges such as separation anxiety, nervousness around new people, or reactivity to unfamiliar situations can feel overwhelming at first. However, with the right approach, these behaviours can often be managed and improved over time.

“Positive, reward-based training can help dogs build confidence and better understand what is expected of them. This is particularly important for rescue animals who may be adapting to unfamiliar routines or environments.

“Importantly, training is not just about behaviour at home. It’s about helping dogs integrate into everyday life. A well-supported dog is more likely to adapt to being left with a trusted pet sitter, spending time in a pet-friendly office environment, travelling more confidently, and engaging calmly with new experiences.

“In many cases, gradual desensitisation and structured routines can make a significant difference, helping reduce anxiety when owners return to work or spend time away from the home.

“The goal is to create a sense of stability and predictability for the dog, while also giving owners the confidence and flexibility to include their pet in their wider lifestyle. When done consistently, this benefits both the emotional wellbeing of the animal and the long-term success of the adoption."