I think initially, they may wonder when they are going to be passed on but there has to come a certain point where the dog views it's new home as just that - it's home.

I think probably when they start to build trust in you, come out of their shells and become part of the family thats the point they think they are there to stay.

Oh dear, that actually made me cry... I've had to go and shut my office door now!

3 of my 5 are rehomes, but you'd never know it tbh they all act the same, take the same liberties etc. In fact Milan who spent a while living on the streets and was shot by an air gun is probably the most trusting and liberty taking b*gger of the lot. I think she knows she landed on her feet and is firmly staying put and getting the most out of life.

Hi - we have been back to the kennels were we got our girl from a couple of times and she has been with us - all i can say is that she must think we are taking her back because her reaction is tail between legs, head down and very quiet, even when she sees the lady there, she shows no sign of recognition or fondness at all.. makes you wonder doesn't it ? i think its unusual for a dog not to react positively to a person it has been around for a long time unless of course that person was not very nice.... my girl always seems hugely relieved when we go. She follows me from room to room as well which can be infuriating sometimes, so this could be a sign of insecurity i suppose.

Moobli I think that is pretty much it. Dogs have been found to have no self awareness so aren't able to think things like 'I am happy' but they can experience pleasure/fear and they also have memories so are able to remember both good and bad experiences and associate them with similar events eg sight and smell of a biscuit/lead/food bowl = pleasure.


Consequently rescue dogs don't *think* about their new homes , but they may be experiencing feelings of pleasure and won't be eager to leave .