As most of my readers know, I have been training and helping with shelter dog adoptions for most of my career. I’m always amazed at the variety of breeds and personalities I encounter at shelters. In fact, it’s estimated that 25% of dogs in US animal shelters are purebred. I’m hoping this article helps prospective adopters make the best choice for their next furry friend.
First off, take an honest inventory of your lifestyle and how you would like your dog to complement that. Do you have space for a large active dog? Do you live in an apartment that has size and breed restrictions? Know the breed traits that will work with your lifestyle. Also consider the type of personality you’re looking for i.e. laid back or gregarious etc. Share your list of qualities with the shelter adoption counselor. For a younger person with an active lifestyle, a German Pointer, Vizla, Australian Shepherd or Staffordshire Terrier, to name a few, will keep you in shape. An older, less active owner will enjoy, e.g. a Bulldog, Havanese, Maltese, Pug or Shi Tzu. I have seen an 80’s something couple bring a super reactive, high energy Labrador puppy into their home. Not a good lifestyle mix, to say the least!
Second, don’t get turned off by the dogs being hyperreactive and barking in their cages. When they see people during the day it’s usually volunteers that are going to take them out of their kennel and exercise them. So, it’s bark, bark please take me out! Best to talk to the adoption counselor and meet and greet the dog in one of the outdoor exercise areas where you get a better idea of their personality!
Third, try to be open-minded about the type of you breed you want to bring home. Although most breeds were created for a purpose- whether hunting/swimming/herding/nose work etc., there is tremendous variation within each breed. The old adage never judge a book by its cover really does apply here. I once worked with an enormous Staffordshire Terrier a.k.a. “pit bull” that had been used as a bait dog to train a drug dealer’s guard dogs. Scarred and mean looking, this gentle giant just wanted to roll on his back and have his belly rubbed! On the other hand, I was bitten in the thigh walking by a kenneled, aggressive, unsocialized Golden Retriever at a Humane Society shelter. Get rid of any preconceived notions about dog breeds and just let an encounter happen. Dogs adopt you as much as you adopt them. Let the dog determine if he’s interested in you. Sit down or lay on the floor when you’re meeting the dog. Height means status and dominance in the canine world so you want the dog to see you as more sociable. Years ago, my stepdaughter was fixated on adopting a Chesapeake Bay Retriever at a Humane Society. When we met with the dog she wanted nothing to do with us. Fortunately, a Rat Terrier/ Chihuahua mix, was jumping up and down barking at us from the adjacent adoption yard. We met with Chico and all he wanted to do was cuddle with us. Welcome to the family Chico!
Despite the above, when you do decide on a dog, understand small dogs will generally live longer than large dogs. Long-haired dogs require more grooming than shorthaired dogs. French and English Bulldogs with shorter snouts (brachycephalic breeds) may face breathing problems.
Fourth, consider older dogs as a good option. Puppies require many months of intensive supervision, training, and socialization to develop into a well-adjusted adult dog. Are you up for the commitment of more frequent feeding, potty breaks, and supervision that a puppy requires? For many, an older dog that has an established personality, is housetrained, and knows basic commands makes more sense.
Whichever dog you adopt, make sure you’re ready to invest in the long-term expenses that come with having a pet including their food, veterinary care, training, grooming, pet sitters etc.