5 Things to Help You Successfully Adopt a Dog

So You Want to Adopt a Dog? Read This First!

Adding a dog to your home is a wonderful experience.
Before you do though, there are a few things to consider
to ensure you’re making the best choice
for you and your new forever dog.

It’s true; dogs offer us unconditional love and companionship. But they also come with added responsibility and commitment. Whichever dog you decide to adopt (a puppy or a senior, large or small); you will also be accepting the responsibility to provide them with the best quality of life through their entire life. So before you give in to those magical puppy eyes or sweet puppy breath, keep reading to make sure you’re prepared for the long-term commitment of dog ownership!

1)  What’s the Perfect Size for YOU?

Unlike many other pets (cats, fish, hamsters, etc.), the size of a dog is an issue that cannot be overlooked. If you’re adopting a puppy, consider their full-grown size. Are you looking for a lap mate? A Great Dane might be more than you bargained for.

Do you live in a spacious home, apartment or even a studio? K9 size will definitely make a difference.

Along with considering size, also give some thought about the specific breed you’re considering. Each breed comes with their own characteristics, good and bad. What are you prepared to deal with? Whatever characteristics are important to you, there’s a breed for that! (When you’ve narrowed down the breeds you are interested in, spend some time on the AKC website and learn about the characteristics of each breed, activity level, coat type, barking level and even trainability at: www.akc.org/dog-breeds/.)

2)  Let’s Talk Lifestyle … Yours

Again, unlike many other pets, dogs need exercise; some more than others. Are you a couch potato or a weekend warrior? Do you work long hours? All these things will affect your dog, their quality of life and potential behavioral issues. Be honest and choose a dog that fits into your current lifestyle. If you love binge-watching Netflix, don’t adopt a sporting or working dog with high energy levels.

Consider your future lifestyle too.   What are your goals in the next 10 years you may have this dog?  Will you get married, have children, travel more?

3)  Got Allergies?

While more people are allergic to cats than dogs, many do have an allergic reaction to dog dander (dead skin) and saliva. Sadly, some dogs will pay the price when allergies become an unavoidable issue. If you suffer from allergies to dogs and still want to adopt a dog, consider breeds that have a non-shedding coat. (You can find a list here: www.akc.org/dog-breeds/hypoallergenic-dogs/.)

4)  A Puppy or a Senior K9?

Puppies traditionally get the most attention when it comes to adopting a new dog. But don’t count the older dogs out! Older and senior dogs will usually be housebroken, have some basic training and be a lot calmer. If you don’t have the patience of a saint, an older dog may be a better choice for you. (Especially for you Netflix binge-watchers!) Even better, you’ll be giving an older dog a new chance at life.

If you’re up for the challenge of a non-stop puppy that will get into everything every minute of every day, step right up! But again, make sure your current lifestyle will accommodate the constant needs of a puppy.

5)  Always Consider Adoption

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), there are approximately 3.3 million homeless dogs in the United States. You can make a difference by adopting your next dog from one of the many shelters, rescues and animal welfare organizations in your area.

Remember, most homeless dogs are not bad dogs; they are just dogs with bad luck. Like the puppy who got “too big” or the child who got bored with taking care of that-once-cute puppy. It’s even worse for senior dogs when their human owners pass away or are forced into assisted-living facilities or hospice care that won’t allow pets.
So give a homeless dog a second chance and visit your local Humane Society, shelter or rescue organization. Remember, when you adopt a homeless dog, you save that dog and the one who takes his place.

If you’re looking to adopt a dog in Colorado, check the following:

• No Kill Animal Shelters: https://www.nokillnetwork.org/d/Colorado/
• Shelters and Rescues: https://www.dogloversdigest.com/colorado-rescue-shelters-and-organizations/.

Or just Google, “Adopt a Dog near Me,” “Adopt a Dog in My Area” or “Adopt a Dog (add your city/state).”

________________________________________

Once you’ve adopted that new dog, give us a call about training to build a strong bond with your new best friend.
And remember too, we offer dog walking, house sitting and dog grooming!

Additional Reading:

1. 26-Step Checklist for Adopting a New Adult Dog or Puppy
topdogtips.com/adopting-a-new-dog/

2. Adopting a New Dog
www.whole-dog-journal.com/issues/11_4/features/Older-Dog-Adoption_16019-1.html

3. 5 Common Mistakes Adopters Make When Bringing Home a New Dog
www.localbark.com/bark-all-about-it/2015/01/5-common-mistakes-adopters-make-when-bringing-home-new-dog/

4. Adoption Tips
www.aspca.org/adopt-pet/adoption-tips

5. Top Tips for Adopting a Shelter Dog
www.cbsnews.com/news/top-tips-for-adopting-a-shelter-dog/