8 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting a Dog

Is My Lifestyle a Good Fit for a Dog?

“Are you looking fora hiking companion? A dog who can travel with you? Or do you prefera mellow pupwho sleeps all day to keep you company?” These are all important questions to ask yourself before adopting, saysLindsay Hamrick, director of shelter outreach and engagement at theHumane Society of the United States.

When you're clear about your lifestyle and the energy level you're looking for in a dog, shelter staff can better match you with your ideal companion (and steer you away from a dog who might not be the best fit).

And of course, if you work away from home eight hours a day, you should think about how your dog will spend their time while you're away. Consider easing their boredom and time alone by hiring a dog walker, going to doggy daycare, or taking trips home on your lunch break. If you simply don't have the time or resources, adopting a dog probably isn't the best fit for you right now.

Do I Have Time to Train and Socialize My Dog?

Being a new parent to a rescue dog comes with the important duty of socializing and training your pup. Both these things help dogs become good canine citizens who respond to people, other animals, and new situations in a positive manner.

"Puppies are in an active learning stage," explains Kait Hembree, head of training atGoodPup, a positive reinforcement dog training service. She recommends that pet parents be proactive about introducing their puppies to new things in positive ways before they reach four months of age. This will help build their confidence and teach them manners, but it "requires a great deal of time and commitment," she says.

Rescued adult and senior dogscome with their own learned behaviors and life experiences. If those behaviors and experiences are positive, you may have an easier time. But—as is often the case with rescue dogs—they may need help feeling confident in everyday life and learning good manners.

Even when you and your dog have the hang of things, Hembree says training and socialization are lifelong commitments requiring regular practice. Expect to continue training throughout your dog's life.

Is My Housing Situation Appropriate for a Dog?

Dogs—big and small—can thrive in small apartments or large homes with the rightexercise routine. Unfortunately, your landlord may not be so accommodating. Even homeowner associations (HOAs) can put limits on the type and number of dogs you live with.

Many housing complexes, units, and rentals advertise themselves as “pet-friendly” but have strict breed and size restrictions, Hamrick explains. Read the fine print of your housing agreement and talk to your landlord or boardbeforecommitting to adopting a new dog. Unfortunately, this is how many dogs end up in shelters or why they are returned to shelters.

If you’re thinking about breaking the rules, well, just don't. You’ll face the risk of hefty fines, or worse, you and your dog will have to find another place to live.

Can I Afford to Adopt and Care for a Dog?

Providing a shelter dog with a loving home may feel priceless, but the realcost of raising a dogranges anywhere from $1,500 to $9,900 per year. Having a realistic view of what dogs require and how much they cost is essential to keeping dogs in their forever homes, says Kathy Gaines, executive director atMaxFund Animal Adoption Center.

For example, pet parents should prepare for thecosts of routine medical care. Things like required vaccinations, dental cleanings, monthly preventatives, and food all add up. Hamrick says to keep in mind that your dog may require a special diet or supplements. There's also bedding, toys, and grooming to consider. And while doggy daycare, training classes, and a dog walker aren't always necessary, those expenses might pop up, too.

Most sheltersspay and neuter dogsbefore sending them home. Many clinics also offer low-cost veterinary care. “That said, it is important for prospective new pet parents to develop a good understanding of what expenses will be required, even when planning to use a low-cost clinic,” Gaines says.

我家人在吗to Consideration?

Whether your existing family is made up of other people, cats, or hamsters doesn't really matter. When considering bringing another member into the mix, everyone needs to be considered. Keep in mind that while your current pets may like to play with dogs, they may not be keen on sharing their personal space.

“When adopting a dog, ask your local shelter or rescue if they have any dogs who originally lived with children,” Hamrick suggests. The same could be asked about other pets. Gaines adds not to overlook small details, like how much a particular dog sheds. “Certaindog breeds do not shedand are much more likely to not cause allergic reactions,” she says.

Can I Take on More Responsibilities?

Being a pet parent is a demanding job. This is especially true if you’re thinking of adopting a puppy (hello midnight potty breaks!) or a high-energy dog such as aborder colliewho needs aminimumof two hours of exercise each day.

If you’re going into this solo, the responsibility of your pet’s daily care will fall on you. And if you’re adopting with a partner or if thepup will be part of a family pack, it's important to talk about the delegation of responsibilities before signing the adoption papers.

Am I Ready for The Commitment?

It’s worth thinking about your five- to ten-year plan because dogs can happily live alongside their human companions for many years. “If a person makes a choice to adopt a dog, they should be ready to commit to being a lifelong companion for the life of the animal,” Gaines says. “Every shelter dog deserves that.”

Some things you'll want to consider: moving, having kids, starting a new degree program or changing jobs, extended or frequent travel plans, and any other big life changes that could change your lifestyle or otherwise interfere with your ability to care for a dog.

我收养这只狗的原因吗?

You grew up with aGerman shepherdand rightfully love the breed. But are you really equipped to give them the care they need?

"Trying to replicate a dog based on physical looks can lead to frustration," Hamrick warns. Rather than choosing a dog based on appearance or breed, she says a dog’s energy level and general temperament are better indicators of your compatibility.

Hamrick recommends bringing a list of the qualities you imagine in your potential companion to the shelter. Chances are, you'll be pleasantly surprised who the shelter staff introduces you to. And if you're adopting with your kids in tow, encourage them to make the same list before visiting shelter dogs.