Tips for Adopting Your First Dog

Adopting a dog means giving it a chance at a second life and having a forever furry friend! But, the adoption process can be confusing if it’s your first time. Here are some quick tips on how to make your first adoption experience run as smoothly as possible!

Why Adopt?

Adopting a dog is one of the most rewarding things you can do if you’re an animal lover. Bringing a new pooch home is exciting and nerve-racking, but as long as you prepare yourself for the responsibilities that come with being a doggie owner, you both should be happy together! Dogs boost our mental health but also help us to lead healthier lives in general.

Adopting not only lets you be able to give an adorable pup the life they deserve, but also helps take business away from inhumane puppy mills that sell their dogs at expensive pet stores. You can find your canine companion at the shelter, no need to search any further!

Cost

Adopting is fairly inexpensive and most shelters actually go through at least the first round of vaccinations for their dogs and have the rescues spayed/neutered, saving you money on upcoming vet bills. Adoption fees usually range from $50-$300 depending on the area, but most shelters’ fees are around $150. Comparing this to shopping at the pet store, you’re already saving hundreds of dollars. Some shelters also have free adoption events! Even if you don’t end up taking home the dog that day, it’s a great way to get to know the animals and how they’re treated at the shelter.

Finding the Perfect Fit

Because rescue dogs often spend a lot of time at the shelter, staff are able to get to know them better, meaning they can tell you lots of information about their personality and behaviors like if they get along with other animals or children! Finding a dog that is right for your family dynamics and lifestyle is crucial to being happy in your adoption. Most shelters will provide you with all the information you need to know about the dog you’re looking for and let you interact to see if the dog likes you too!

Already Trained

Many of the dogs in shelters are older than puppies so they’re usually already trained in the basics like pottying outside, simple commands, and eating schedules. This is a lot easier to handle for a first-time owner than a puppy as the dog is less dependent on you to train and form their habits. Search your local shelter to find a dog that matches you!

How to Know You’re Ready

If you’ve already started the process of researching breeds and shelters, you’re halfway there! One of the biggest indicators of knowing if you’re ready is realizing the commitment that comes with owning a happy and healthy dog.

Think about other factors of your life that may impact your decision, such as: if you have enough available space indoors and outdoors for a certain sized dog, do you have any family members or roommates that wouldn’t get along with your pup, are you able to spend enough time with your dog based on your career, are you patient enough if you need to train them, can you financially afford vet bills and other expenses, etc.

Supplies

If you’ve come to the conclusion that you’re ready to take on adopting a dog, you’ll need to prepare before your pooch is ready to come home! Gather these essentials before bringing your new furry friend home:

• Food (ask the shelter what they recommend, usually they will send a bag home with you as well)
• Water/Food bowls
• Carrier
• Dog bed
• New toys (don’t use hand-me-downs as you don’t want any other dog to get territorial)
• Hygiene products (doggie toothbrush and toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, nail clippers, and a brush/comb)
• Collar, leash, ID tag
• Potty pads (even if they’re house trained they might have an accident from being nervous)
• Baby gate (if there are stairs or an area you don’t want your dog exploring just yet or if you have children)
• A veterinarian clinic

The Adoption Process

So, how does the process work? Be prepared to potentially have a home visit, references, or vet contact. You can find out the shelter you’re looking to adopt from’s requirements on their website or by calling in. Depending on the shelter, it can take a few hours to weeks to be able to actually bring your dog home with you. But don’t let this discourage you, shelters are excited when people want to adopt, they just need to make sure you are the perfect fit! Once you have your dog cozy at home, be patient as it might take them a while to adjust and feel comfortable with you again. If you have any concerns about your dog’s adjustment, contact the shelter or your vet for advice.