Why Should You Adopt?
When adopting a dog, you are giving the dog an opportunity, which further aids in the reduction of stray animals. This also helps clear space in shelters, curbs irresponsible breeding, and, most of all, adoption can help you find a dog that matches your lifestyle. While this may come as a surprise to many, most adopted dogs will be as loving, healthy, and well-behaved as dogs purchased from a breeder.
And yes, all adopted dogs tend to be just as loving, healthy, and well-behaved as any dog bought from a breeder. Often, with the appropriate care, they tend to be even more.
Dogs’ Ages You Can Adopt
If you have the time, energy, and patience, you are free to adopt puppies and train and raise them from scratch.
- Adult Dogs: Typically not prone to destructive behaviors like chewing, have developed proper house-training, and are easier to evaluate in terms of temperament and interactions.
- Senior Dogs: Kind and loving; often overlooked and well-suited for quiet individuals or families who wish to forgo the active, hectic schedule.
- Special Needs Dogs: Some may have behavioral or medical issues, but in the right surroundings, these dogs can flourish.
Things to Think About Prior to Adopting
A) Your Lifestyle
Reflect on these questions:
- How much time do I have for my commitments of walks, play time, training activities, and so on?
- Am I frequently away, or do I work long shifts?
- Is my area quiet or bustling?
- Am I often traveling, and who takes care of my dog while I’m away?
Consideration should be given to the dog’s energy levels and particular requirements. Active individuals would benefit from a working breed or a playful puppy. Those who prefer a calm routine should seek a lower-energy or relaxed dog.
B) Your Housing Arrangement
- Do you own or are you renting? Some landlords have restrictions on dog breed or size.
- Is there a yard in your property? If not, are you prepared to undertake multiple daily walks?
- Is your home safe for pets (cords, trash, chemicals, shoes)?
- Are stairs an issue for older dogs (senior dogs, or dogs with mobility issues)?
C) Dynamics of Family
- Do you have children or other pets?
- Is everyone in the family agreeable towards adopting a dog?
- Are there any allergies that need to be factored in?
Some dogs thrive in families with kids; others don’t. Many do well with other pets, but introductions should be slow and supervised.
Just As Unique As Us People
Every dog has a different personality. Some are playful and energetic, others are mellow and independent. You might meet a bouncy pup who never sits still, or a calm, older dog who just wants a cozy spot to nap.
Breed matters, but personality matters more. Take the time to get to know the dog before deciding if it’s the right fit for your home.
Puppy or Adult?
Puppies are adorable, yes, but they are also a lot of work. Teething, chewing, potty training, and constant supervision. If you have the patience and time on your hands, a puppy will be a great companion.
If the goal is to have a more relaxed atmosphere, the adult dog is likely the better option. Many have already undergone the House Training process, know the basic commands, and have outgrown the hyperactive phase. Similarly, senior dogs, who tend to be overlooked, make great companions, brimming with love and gratitude.
Combining calmness with structure, training still remains a requirement.
Trained dogs are better at “communicating” and create a bond between the house and the pet. Having a defined structure with rules ensures the dog is calm. “Positive reinforcement” and “consistency” are great aids.
Regardless of age, a canine companion can greatly benefit from training, both in the present and the future. Trust and bonds are built with training, and yes, even older dogs can “learn new tricks.”
Preparation:
- Am I prepared to give them time, daily exercises, and to attend to my dog’s needs?
- Do I have the funds required for checkups, food, supplies, and other necessities?
- In the event I travel or get busy, who is caring for the dog?
- Have I prepared for the long term: 10 to 15 years?
- In the event of accidents or barking, will I be able to remain calm?
If the response to all questions is yes, then you’re doing great.
Steps to Getting Ready for an Adoption
Here’s the work you need to do before welcoming a new furry friend to your family:
Dog-Proof Your Home
Clear accessible spaces of dangerous or chewable items – cords, trash, medications, shoes, among others – to ensure safety.
Also, set up a safe and comfortable area where the dog can retreat to for relaxation and resting.
Stock the Basics
- Food and water bowls
- Leash and collar with an ID tag
- A dog bed, or a crate
- Toys for mental and physical stimulation
- Food of good quality
- Set a Routine
Determine the following:
- Who will feed the dog?
- Who will walk the dog and how frequently?
- Where will the dog sleep?
- Who will be responsible for training?
Dogs especially require predictability and reliability for the first few weeks of settling in.
The First Few Days at Home
The new dog will likely be a bit too shy, frightened, or overexcited. Remain calm and supportive, and give them time to adjust, while maintaining a calm and stable environment without big changes. With time, focus on helping them feel safe.
Sustained, daily care and gentle trust-building processes are key to strengthening the bond.
Common Myths (Busted)
Often, shelter or Adopted Dogs are thought to be damaged. On the contrary, with a little love, shelter dogs need simply a bit of love and some steady routines.
Another common perception is, older dogs do not connect as deeply. This, too, is false. Older dogs not only deeply desire love, but tend to bond faster than younger puppies.
Myth: You cannot have a dog if you do not have a house with a yard.
Truth: Nearly all Dog Breeds need attention and exercise. Regular walks alongside playtime take priority over space.
Myth: Only a purebred dog can be adopted.
Truth: Mixed breeds can be equally or more loving and often carry a greater health advantage.
The dog you desire may actually not be the dog you need.
Imagining you want a golden retriever from a shelter, you end up falling for a quiet mixed breed. That is not a mistake – it is a meaningful bond.
Keep focusing on energy and a personality that complements your life rather than breed or size.
Final thoughts
What you can do is adopt a dog. It may not be an easy task at hand, but it is equally rewarding. Every early morning, chewed slipper, vet bill, the love, loyalty, and joy received are completely priceless.
Strive towards committed, not perfect.
Trust earns you full unconditional love, and that is unrivaled.
To make your adoption journey easier, you can explore the Pawrpose App on Google Play or download it on the App Store for guidance, rescue support, and pet care resources
