How to Adopt the Right Dog for You
- Letting your emotions take over at the shelter is the absolute wrong way to go about adopting a dog.
- No dog is “right” or “wrong.” However, there is probably a “right” or “wrong” dog for you and your lifestyle.
- A fearful, traumatized dog probably won’t do well in a busy household with young children.
- For seniors, if you’re looking for a smaller, calm dog, Jack Russells, MinPins, might not be the relaxed partner you’re looking for. Pugs might be better suited for you.
Keep these tips in mind when adopting a dog
- Dogs don’t reach adulthood until 2.5 or 3 years of age
- During dog adolescence, the personality and intellect of a dog are still forming.
- The period between ten months and 1.5 years of age is particularly notorious for the development of anxiety-based behaviors.
- It takes a while for a rescue dog’s personality to emerge
- Due to the stress and irregularity of life behind bars, dogs adopted from a shelter may not come out of their shell completely until at least three weeks after adoption.
Genetics Matter
- It’s virtually impossible to tell exactly which breeds combined to create many rescue dogs.
- However, we can typically, at the very least, identify the breed group from which a dog hails.
- Breed knowledge won’t give you specifics, but it can tell you something about the amount of exercise and stimulation you should expect to provide in order to keep a dog happy and healthy.
Every Dog is an Individual
- A dog’s personality comes down to experiences in puppyhood and adolescence.
- Spend time with the dog you’re considering so you can get to know their unique qualities.
Don’t Adopt a Dog Just for Looks
- Often, Murphy’s Law applies, and the dog ends up being the exact opposite of what you wanted.
The Bottom Line
- In the end, choosing the right dog comes down to your life and home.
- Closely consider your lifestyle before adopting.
- Shelters always need volunteers, so you can get your dog fixed before you make a decision—and make a difference at the same time.
What is Threshold Testing and why is it important?
What is the Puppy aptitude test?
What is a Breed Survey?
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