How to Choose a Dog from a Shelter: A Guide for Future Pet Parents
So, you’ve decided to welcome a dog into your family, how exciting!
Owning a dog brings countless rewards, from:
Expanding your social circle (dogs have a magical way of getting people to open up)
To improving your physical health through daily walks
But best of all, you’ll experience the unconditional love only a pup can provide.
However, before you can enjoy these benefits, you need to find the right dog.
Adopting a dog is a big commitment, and like any major decision, it requires careful thought and research.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about how to choose a dog from a shelter, don’t worry!
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect match.
1. Assess Your Lifestyle and Needs
To increase your chances of a successful match, take an honest look at your lifestyle.
- Are you active and love hiking and running? Or do you prefer relaxing indoors?
- Do you live in an apartment or a house with a yard?
- Do you have children or other pets?
There’s no right or wrong answer, your new dog should complement your current lifestyle.
Don’t choose a dog based on what you want to achieve in the future.
For example, don’t adopt a high-energy dog thinking it will motivate you to start running.
It’s not fair to the dog if, after a few months, you decide that jogging isn’t for you and you trade in your jogging shoes for slippers.
Understanding Temperament and Breed Traits
The next question you’re probably wondering about is “How do I determine if a dog’s temperament will match mines?”
The answer, the dog’s breed is a good starting point.
While every dog is unique, their breed can offer insight into common traits.
If you’re considering a specific breed, research its general characteristics.
Keep in mind that mixed-breed dogs may exhibit a combination of traits, but you can still get a sense of their potential personality.
There are plenty of resources to help in your search of dog breeds
Helpful research tools:
- Watch YouTube videos about different dog breeds, to see which one seems like good match
- Search online for breeds that fit your needs (e.g., “dog breeds good with kids” or “low-energy dog breeds”)
- Talk to shelter staff about the dog’s temperament
With over 300 breeds, I’m sure you’ll find your doggy match.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Make a list of qualities you’d like in a dog that aligns with your current lifestyle
✔ Research dog breeds that fit your criteria
✔ Narrow your choices to a few breeds as a starting point
2. Visit the Shelter with a Plan
Once you have an idea of what you’re looking for, it’s time to visit the shelter.
The experience at the shelter can send your senses into overdrive, from the sound of barking dogs, the sight of dogs jumping towards you, and the smell.
If you feel overwhelmed take a moment to adjust to this environment.
Fortunately because you did your planning in advance, you’ll feel more confident in your selection process and some of the stress that may arise from being in shelter, should be alleviated.
Remember, with your list in hand you’re one step closer to adding a dog to your family.
Hopefully a staff member will greet you and help you in selecting your furry friend.
What to Look for When Adopting a Dog at the Shelter
- Observe Behavior: Some dogs may lunge or bark in their kennels. This doesn’t always indicate aggression, it could be stress or excitement. Ask to see the dog outside the kennel for a better assessment.
- Spend One-on-One Time: Request to interact with the dog in a quiet area to observe their personality.
- Assess Temperament: Is the dog friendly, shy, or overly energetic? How do they react to new surroundings and people?
- Observe Interactions with Other Dogs: A staff member may be able to introduce them to another dog to test their behavior.
These are just a few tools to help you determine if a dog is the right match for you.
NOTE:
The shelter is a scary and often stressful environment for the pup.
A dog’s behavior in a shelter environment may be completely different from how they act in a calm home setting.
A dog’s behavior in a shelter environment may be completely different from how they act in a calm home setting.
Judging a dog’s personality at the shelter isn’t a guaranteed predictor of how they’ll be in a family environment.
Ultimately, a dog’s true character is shaped by how they are raised, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive.
Bringing out their strengths and nurturing their personality is what helps them become the best companions they can be.
Red Flags to Watch Out For
❌ The shelter pressures you to adopt a particular dog.
❌ They don’t allow one-on-one time before adoption.
❌ They refuse to disclose the dog’s history.
If the shelter applies extreme pressure or withholds key information, consider looking elsewhere.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Stick to your list of desired traits
✔ Spend quality time interacting with the dog
✔ Ask important questions about the dog’s history and behavior (e.g., “Is this dog owner surrendered?” “Do they have a bite history?” “Are there any known health issues?”)
✔ Asking vague questions could result in vague answers. (e.g.,“Is he a good dog?”)
✔ Shelter staff do their best to understand each dog’s behavior, but since they aren’t with them 24/7, they can’t always get a full picture of their true personality. While their insights are valuable, it’s important to keep in mind that a dog’s behavior in a shelter may not fully reflect how they’ll act in a home environment
3. Check for Signs of Illness or Health Concerns
While many shelter dogs are healthy, some may have medical conditions that require extra care. Before committing, check for visible signs of illness, such as:
- Lethargy or extreme weakness
- Discharge from the eyes or nose
- Persistent coughing
- Bald spots or excessive scratching (possible skin conditions)
Ask About Medical History
- Does the dog have any known health issues?
- Are vaccinations up to date?
- Has the dog been tested for heartworms? If positive, does the shelter cover treatment?
Shelters may provide veterinary care for certain conditions, so be sure to ask about potential costs and treatment options.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Choose a dog that is relatively healthy to avoid unexpected medical costs
✔ Ask about vaccinations, past treatments, and potential health concerns
4. Consider a Trial Adoption
If you’re unsure about making a permanent commitment, check if the shelter offers a trial adoption or foster-to-adopt program.
This allows you to bring the dog home temporarily to see if they’re a good fit for your household.
Trial periods can help prevent rushed decisions and ensure both you and the dog are comfortable with the new living arrangement.
Key Takeaways:
✔ Ask if the shelter has a trial adoption program
✔ A trial period can help determine if the dog is a long-term match
Final Thoughts: Bringing Your New Dog Home
Once you’ve chosen your new furry friend, the real adventure begins!
Transitioning from a shelter to a loving home is a big adjustment for any dog.
Just like humans, they need time to settle into their new surroundings.
In the next article, I’ll cover how to help your pup adjust to their new home and set you both up for success!
Until then, take your time, trust your instincts, and enjoy the journey of adopting your perfect dog.
Photo by Anna Dudkova on Unsplash
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