Adopting a dog from a shelter is a wonderful idea for several reasons. For one, you avoid supporting puppy mills, which tend to abuse animals for the sake of profit. Secondly, you steer clear of the high cost of buying a purebred dog. Lastly, you provide a dog with a good home and a loving family while saving them from being euthanized.

With that said, adopting a dog isn’t like buying a pair of shoes. The last thing you want to do is jump into a pet adoption without doing your due diligence. With this in mind, let’s take a look at what to know before adopting a dog from a shelter:

Do your Research

Before deciding, you must assess your ability to care for a dog. It includes your financial stability, available time, and living situation. It would help if you also were prepared to invest time and resources into training and socializing your new pet. Moreover, it’s essential to set realistic expectations about the dog’s behavior and understand that adjusting to their new home may take time.

Consider the Dog’s History

The shelter staff can provide valuable insight into the dog’s personality and habits, which can help you make an informed decision. Understanding a dog’s history can help you anticipate any potential behavior problems and take steps to address them. Additionally, if you have other pets or children, it’s essential to consider how the dog may interact with them based on their history.

Older dogs tend to be very protective of their territory and may not react well to new pets or children. Alternatively, dogs raised in a shelter may feel insecure in their new environment and act out. But with proper training and socialization, it’s often possible to address these behavioral problems.

Spend Time with the Dog

Try to spend time with the dog multiple times to understand its personality and behavior better. However, remember that dogs can be nervous in a shelter environment, so it may take some time for them to warm up to you. Play fetch, offer treats, and observe their behavior. You can also take them for a walk to see how they behave outside of the shelter environment.

Get to Know the Dog’s Likes and Dislikes

Find out what toys they enjoy playing with and what treats they like. Understanding their favorite activities can help you bond with them and make their transition to their new home easier.

On the other hand, knowing the dog’s dislikes is also essential. This knowledge can help you avoid triggering any negative reactions or behavior. For instance, some dogs don’t like certain noises, while others may be scared of strangers.

The shelter staff can also guide you on what to do when the dog is in a bad mood. They can advise you on how to soothe the dog and help them feel safe. Besides that, they can suggest ways to build a strong relationship with your new furry friend and make them feel loved.

Learn How to Tell a Dog’s Age

One question you’ll want answered is, ‘How old is my dog?’ Knowing your dog’s age can help you anticipate their healthcare needs and provide the appropriate level of care to keep them healthy and happy for years to come.

Shelter dogs can be of varying ages, and it’s important to know the approximate age of the dog you’re adopting. Look for signs such as teeth condition, coat quality, and overall behavior to help you determine.

Adolescent canines have sharp teeth and shiny coats, while older dogs may have worn-down teeth and dull coats. Senior dogs may move slower and have trouble jumping or climbing stairs.

However, remember that these are general guidelines and may not always be accurate. It’s always best to consult a veterinarian to assess your new pet’s age more accurately.

Be Patient

Be patient with your new companion and give them plenty of love and attention as they acclimate to their new home. It’s important to understand that your new furry friend may exhibit anxious or fearful behavior initially, but with time, patience, and positive reinforcement, they can learn to trust and feel comfortable in their new environment.

Remember to provide a consistent routine for your dog, which includes regular feeding, exercise, and playtime. Doing this can help them feel secure and provide a sense of structure.

It is also essential to train and socialize with your new companion. Training provides an outlet for their energy and helps build a good relationship through positive communication.

Conclusion

Embracing a shelter dog is a great way to make a positive impact and provide a loving home to a deserving animal. With some patience, effort, and love, you can help your new furry friend transition into their new home and create a lifetime of memories together. Contact us for more information on adopting a shelter dog.