Just adopted? You should not have to guess.

You just adopted a dog, or you are about to. Maybe they are hiding under the table. Maybe they are bouncing off the walls. Either way, the first weeks decide a lot. Years ago my husband and I fostered a sick 12 week old puppy found in a duffel bag on a Missouri highway. Trinity never left. She taught me more about rescue dogs than any textbook, and this course is what I wish someone had handed me the day she came home. Heather Pohlman, owner and head trainer, Mystic Paws Academy

In about an hour you will know how to

Short lessons, 10 minutes or less, in the order your dog needs them. Plus 7 Days Through Your Dog's Eyes, included.

  • Set up the first three days so your dog can decompress instead of melt down

  • Read the eight signals that say "I'm overwhelmed" before they turn into a problem

  • Play nine easy games that build confidence without any pressure, starting with your dog's new name

  • Know what to expect when the honeymoon ends, and exactly when to call us

  • Get 7 Days Through Your Dog's Eyes, our one game a day course, plus your dog's printable User Manual, both included free

Course curriculum

    1. Included: 7 Days Through Your Dog's Eyes

    2. Welcome, Rescue Hero

    3. How to Use This Course

    4. The 3 3 3 Rule

    5. Optional: Mystic Paws Academy Orientation

    1. Decompression: Less Is More

    2. Set Up a Safe Space and a Routine

    3. Do's and Don'ts for the First Weeks

    4. Meeting the Resident Pets and Kids

    1. 8 Signs Your Dog Is Overwhelmed

    2. Shut Down vs Relaxed

    3. Helping Your Dog Gain Confidence

    4. When to Call Us (or Your Vet)

    1. Game 1: Teach Your Dog Their New Name

    2. Game 2: Find It

    3. Game 3: Slow Down Dinner (Muffin Man)

    4. Game 4: Brave Dog Game (Cardboard Chaos)

    1. Game 5: The One Word That Makes Training Easy

    2. Game 6: Treat and Retreat

    3. Game 7: Touch

    4. Game 8: Building Confidence One Step at a Time

    5. Game 9: A Dog Who Settles on Their Own Spot

    1. When the Honeymoon Ends: Common Surprises

    2. Why Training Matters (Especially for Rescue Dogs)

    3. What's Next: Level 1 Online with Your Adopter Discount

    4. Tell Us About Your Rescue

    5. Download: Through My Dog's Eyes User Manual

About this course

  • Free
  • 27 lessons
  • 0.5 hours of video content

Your dog is waiting. Start free today.

Free, 90 days of access, works on your phone. Includes 7 Days Through Your Dog's Eyes and your dog's User Manual. Adopters get 25% off Level 1 Online with code ADOPTED.

Enroll for free

Questions adopters ask

  • Do I need to have adopted from a partner rescue?

    No. Any adopted dog, any rescue, any shelter, any age. The course is free for every adopter.

  • How long do I have?

    90 days. That matches the 3 3 3 rule: 3 days to decompress, 3 weeks to learn the routine, 3 months to feel at home. Take it at your dog's pace.

  • What if we need more help?

    The last chapter explains your adopter discount on Level 1 Online (code ADOPTED, 25% off), and you can reply to any of our emails. If your dog is showing fear or guarding, we would rather hear from you early.

  • What is 7 Days Through Your Dog's Eyes?

    Our seven day course that teaches you to see the world the way your dog does: one ten minute lesson and one easy game a day. It is included with this course for the full 90 days, and on Day 22 you fill in your dog's printable Through My Dog's Eyes User Manual. My emails will tell you exactly when to start it. Week three, once your dog has decompressed.