{"id":1849,"date":"2021-12-15T14:57:10","date_gmt":"2021-12-15T21:57:10","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sitmeanssit.com\/dog-training-mu\/salt-lake-city-dog-training\/?p=1849"},"modified":"2025-02-27T16:14:01","modified_gmt":"2025-02-27T23:14:01","slug":"tips-for-adopting-your-first-dog","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/sitmeanssit.com\/dog-training-mu\/salt-lake-city-dog-training\/tips-for-adopting-your-first-dog\/","title":{"rendered":"Tips for Adopting Your First Dog"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\u2019s your first time. Here are some quick tips from Sit Means Sit<\/a> on how to make your first adoption experience run as smoothly as possible!<\/p>\n

Why Adopt?<\/h3>\n

Adopting a dog is one of the most rewarding things you can do if you\u2019re 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.<\/p>\n

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!<\/p>\n

Cost<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2019 fees are around $150. Comparing this to shopping at the pet store, you\u2019re already saving hundreds of dollars. Some shelters also have free adoption events! Even if you don\u2019t end up taking home the dog that day, it\u2019s a great way to get to know the animals and how they\u2019re treated at the shelter.<\/p>\n

Finding the Perfect Fit<\/strong><\/p>\n

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\u2019re looking for and let you interact to see if the dog likes you too!<\/p>\n

Already Trained<\/strong><\/p>\n

Many of the dogs in shelters are older than puppies so they\u2019re 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<\/a> your local shelter to find a dog that matches you!<\/p>\n

How to Know You\u2019re Ready<\/h3>\n

If you\u2019ve already started the process of researching breeds and shelters, you\u2019re halfway there! One of the biggest indicators of knowing if you\u2019re ready is realizing the commitment that comes with owning a happy and healthy dog.<\/p>\n

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\u2019t 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.<\/p>\n

Supplies<\/strong><\/p>\n

If you\u2019ve come to the conclusion that you\u2019re ready to take on adopting a dog, you\u2019ll need to prepare before your pooch is ready to come home! Gather these essentials before bringing your new furry friend home:<\/p>\n