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Are you thinking about adopting a dog? Considering a dog shelter might be a great option!
But before you make this life-changing decision, it’s important to understand the pros and cons.
Adopting a dog is a huge commitment that should be taken seriously. By choosing to adopt from a shelter, you give a dog a second chance at life.
Did you know that millions of dogs enter shelters every year, and sadly, a significant number are euthanized?
By adopting from a shelter, you become part of the solution, helping to reduce euthanasia rates and creating space for other dogs in need.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of adopting from a dog shelter, helping you make an informed decision that suits your lifestyle.
Are you ready to learn more about adopting from a dog shelter?
Keep reading to discover if it’s the right choice for you and your future furry companion.
Table of Contents
Types Of Shelters
Before we get into the pros and cons of adopting from a dog shelter, it’s important to first understand the differences between the many types of shelters.
Animal shelters are most often run either privately or by your local government. In both cases, funding for shelters is quite low, and they rely heavily on community volunteers and donations.
Most shelters are classified into the following categories:
No-Kill Shelters
No-kill shelters are special shelters that don’t euthanize animals unless they have serious health problems or pose a danger to others.
Their main goal is to find homes for all the animals in their care.
These shelters often work with rescue groups and rely on foster homes to take care of the animals until they find permanent homes.
By adopting from a no-kill shelter, you are helping to save and find loving homes for animals in need.
Your adoption directly supports their mission of giving these animals a second chance at life.
Open-Admission Shelters
Open-admission shelters, also called open-door shelters, take in all animals, no matter their age, breed, or health condition.
They don’t turn animals away based on limited space or specific requirements.
These shelters often receive a lot of animals, which can lead to overcrowding.
Because of this, they may face challenges in providing resources and may need to make difficult decisions about euthanasia if an animal’s health or safety is at risk.
However, their main goal is to find suitable homes for as many animals as possible through adoptions, foster programs, and partnerships with rescue organizations.
The main difference between open-admission and no-kill shelters is that open-admission shelters accept all animals, while no-kill shelters prioritize finding homes for all adoptable animals and have stricter euthanasia policies.
Pros Of Adopting From A Dog Shelter
Let’s take a look at why adopting from a dog shelter can be a great decision for you and your new furry friend.
1. You Are Saving A Life, Plus Another
By adopting from a dog shelter, you are not only saving one life but potentially saving another as well.
When you bring a shelter dog into your home, you create space at the shelter for another dog in need.
It’s like a chain reaction of kindness. You give one dog a chance at a better life while creating an opportunity for another dog to find their forever home.
Adopting from a shelter is a powerful way to make a difference and help multiple dogs in need.
So, by choosing to adopt, you become a hero, saving lives and spreading love with every adoption.
Watch this short video of two young girls who made a remarkable impact by saving a shelter dog.
2. Cost Savings
Another significant advantage of adopting from a dog shelter is the cost savings it offers.
Compared to purchasing your dog from a breeder, adopting from a shelter is often much more affordable.
Shelters typically have a small adoption fee, which often includes necessary vaccinations, spaying or neutering, and microchipping.
Oftentimes, shelters will also include free pet insurance for a certain amount of time.
If you were to purchase all of these extras separately, it would be quite expensive.
Also, shelter dogs are often already trained to some extent, saving you the time, effort, and cost associated with training a puppy from scratch.
By adopting from a shelter, you’ll be providing a loving home to a dog as well as enjoy the cost savings.
3. Wide Variety Of Dogs
When you adopt from a shelter, you have a wide range of dogs to choose from.
They come in different breeds, sizes, ages, and personalities. Shelters have all sorts of dogs, from playful puppies to calm and loving seniors.
Whether you’re looking for a specific breed or are open to a mixed breed, shelters offer plenty of options.
You can find a dog that fits your preferences, lifestyle, and family.
With so many amazing dogs waiting for a home, you’re likely to find your perfect match at a shelter.
4. Your Dog May Already Be Trained And Housebroken
There may be a chance that the dog you adopt is already housebroken and trained.
This means they might already know how to behave in a home and understand basic commands.
Adopting a dog that’s already housebroken takes the stress away from having to potty train and teach your dog manners.
You will be able to focus on bonding with your new furry friend right away and enjoy your time together.
It’s a great advantage that makes the transition into your home easier and more enjoyable for both of you.
5. You Will Feel Good About Yourself
Knowing that you have saved your dog’s life and the life of another will make you feel good about yourself.
Not only that, but dog ownership is a very rewarding experience in and of itself. You will be rewarded with a furry best friend to share memories and experiences with.
Dogs can be very therapeutic. Owning a dog will bring you joy and improve your quality of life.
A dog will get you outside and moving; no more excuses for not going for a walk!
6. Unconditional Gratitude
When you adopt a shelter dog, you’ll be amazed by their unconditional gratitude.
These dogs have often been through tough times and are incredibly thankful for the love and care they receive in their new home.
They show their appreciation through loyalty, affection, and constant companionship.
Adopting a shelter dog means gaining a forever friend who will always be grateful and show you unconditional love every day.
7. Contribute To The Fight Against Puppy Mills
When you buy a puppy from a pet store, online, or a classified ad in the newspaper, chances are the puppy is from a puppy mill.
Puppy mills are factory-like breeding operations that breed their female dogs over and over again.
The mother dogs are kept in cages, and when they are no longer able to breed, they are sold at auctions, abandoned, or killed.
Puppy mills house their dogs and puppies in overcrowded cages, and the conditions are unsanitary.
Dogs and puppies do not get proper food, veterinary care, or human interaction, and they are bred carelessly.
Adopting from a dog shelter is one of the many ways that you can help put puppy mills out of business.
8. Health And Behavioural Assessments
When you adopt from a dog shelter, you benefit from the health and behavioural assessments that many shelters conduct.
These assessments help ensure that the dogs available for adoption are in good health and have their basic behavioural needs met.
Shelters often provide veterinary care, vaccinations, and spaying or neutering services to ensure the overall well-being of the dogs.
Additionally, behavioural assessments help match dogs with suitable adopters based on their personalities and suitability for different home environments.
This helps increase the chances of a successful adoption and a harmonious relationship between you and your new furry friend.
9. Support And Resources
By adopting from a dog shelter, you can benefit from the support and resources available to you.
Shelters are there to assist you throughout the adoption process, providing guidance and valuable resources.
They can offer information on training and behaviour, even connect you with local trainers if needed, and may have post-adoption support programs.
Having access to this support system can give you confidence and help you provide the best care for your newly adopted dog.
Cons Of Adopting From A Dog Shelter
While adopting a dog from a responsible shelter generally has few drawbacks, it’s important to be aware of a few potential downsides that can arise in certain situations.
1. Uncertain Background
One thing to consider when adopting a shelter dog is that their background may be uncertain.
Shelter dogs often have unknown histories, which can make it harder to predict their behaviour or any health issues they may have.
While shelters do their best to assess the dogs, there might still be unknowns about their upbringing and any difficult experiences they’ve had.
Just be prepared for possible challenges, and be patient and understanding as your new dog adjusts to their new home.
2. Training And Behaviour Challenges
You may encounter training and behavioural challenges with your newly adopted dog.
Your shelter dog may not have received consistent training or socialization, which can lead to certain problems.
It could take extra time and effort to help them adjust and overcome these challenges.
Being patient, providing consistent training, and getting professional help if needed can make a big difference.
With love, patience, and proper training, many of these challenges can be overcome.
Just be prepared for the possibility of dealing with training and behaviour issues along the way.
3. Unknown Health Issues
When adopting from a dog shelter, it’s important to consider the possibility of not knowing your dog’s health issues.
Since their background may be uncertain, you might not have all the information you need about your dog’s medical history or any underlying health conditions.
Scheduling a thorough check-up with your veterinarian is a good idea soon after adoption to address any concerns.
Keep in mind that some health issues may not be noticed right away, so regular vet visits and preventative care are crucial to ensuring your dog’s well-being.
By taking a proactive approach to their health, you can provide the best possible care for your new furry friend.
4. Breed Limitations
If you have your heart set on a specific breed, you may have difficulty finding one at a shelter.
Shelters typically have a mix of different breeds, and it might take more time and effort to find a dog of your preferred breed.
However, it’s important to keep an open mind and remember that there are amazing mixed-breed dogs waiting for loving homes.
By focusing on the dog’s personality and compatibility rather than breed, you can still find a loyal and loving companion at the shelter.
5. Limited Availability Of Puppies
Finding a puppy to adopt at a shelter can be a challenge. Shelters very rarely have puppies, and when they do, they are adopted quickly.
Shelters typically have a higher number of adult dogs available for adoption as compared to puppies.
If you really want a puppy, you may need to be patient and persistent in your search.
However, it’s important to remember that adult dogs can also bring an enormous amount of joy and companionship. Plus, they often have established personalities and are past the challenging puppy stage.
By considering an adult dog, you can still find a loving and loyal companion that will bring happiness to your home.
6. Emotional Attachment And Bonding Challenges
When you adopt a dog from a shelter, it may take time for both you and your new companion to adjust and form a strong bond.
Your dog might not trust you immediately or feel completely secure in their new home.
Be prepared for potential behaviour issues, lack of house training, or unfamiliarity with basic commands.
However, with patience, training, and effort, it’s possible to teach an old dog new tricks.
While bonding with a puppy may be easier, bonding with an adopted dog may require additional time.
Rest assured, with dedication and care, you and your dog can develop a deep and lasting friendship.
Reasons Why Dogs End Up In Shelters
According to the World Animal Foundation, each year in the US, a staggering 6.3 million animals, including 3.1 million dogs, are surrendered to shelters.
With such a high number of dogs in need of help, it’s important to understand the common reasons why they end up in shelters.
Let’s take a look at the common reasons below:
- Stray or Lost: Dogs that are found as strays or get lost and cannot be reunited with their owners often end up in shelters.
- Owner Surrender: Sometimes, owners surrender their dogs due to various reasons, such as financial difficulties, housing issues, personal challenges, or changes in their lifestyle.
- Behaviour or Training Issues: Dogs with behaviour problems or a lack of training may be surrendered to shelters if their owners are unable to manage or address those issues.
- Health Issues: Dogs who are sick or have significant health issues may end up in shelters, especially if their owners cannot afford or manage their medical care and expenses.
- Breeding or Overpopulation: Dogs from uncontrolled breeding or accidental litters can overwhelm owners, who may choose to surrender them to shelters.
- Abuse or Neglect: Dogs that have suffered abuse or neglect may be rescued and brought to shelters to receive proper care and rehabilitation.
- Moving or Relocation: Changes in living situations, such as moving to a place that doesn’t allow pets, can result in dogs being surrendered to shelters.
- Strained Relationships: Conflict or changes within the family dynamics, such as divorce or death, can lead to dogs being surrendered to shelters.
It’s important to note that each dog’s situation is unique, and shelters work tirelessly to provide these dogs with care, love, and a chance to find a new forever home.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
The following are some of the frequently asked questions about adopting from a dog shelter. If you have any additional questions, please let me know in the comments below the article.
1. What Are The Benefits Of Adopting A Dog From A Shelter?
There are several benefits to adopting a dog from a shelter, including giving a homeless dog a second chance, providing companionship, and potentially saving a life.
Shelter dogs are often already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and may have undergone behavioural assessments, making the adoption process more convenient.
2. How Do I Know If A Shelter Dog Is Suitable For My Home And Lifestyle?
Shelters assess their dogs personalities and energy levels to match them with suitable homes.
You can spend time with the dogs and speak to the shelter staff to see if the dog’s personality and needs align with your home and lifestyle.
3. What Should I Expect During The Adoption Process?
The adoption process typically involves filling out an application, meeting potential dogs, and going through an interview or home visit.
Some shelters may require references or landlord approval.
The process aims to ensure a responsible and suitable match between the dog and the adopter.
Adoption fees and signing an adoption contract are also part of the process.
4. How Much Are Adoption Fees, And What Do They Include?
Adoption fees can vary depending on the shelter, the dog’s age, breed, and services provided.
They typically range from $50 to a few hundred dollars.
The adoption fee usually includes spay and neuter, vaccinations, microchipping, and sometimes a basic veterinary exam.
Some shelters may also provide a starter pack of food or a leash and collar.
5. What Should I Consider Before Adopting A Dog From A Shelter?
Before adopting, consider your lifestyle, time availability, and financial responsibilities.
Dogs require attention, exercise, training, and ongoing care.
Adoption is a serious commitment, and you need to ensure that you can provide a safe and suitable environment as well as the necessary resources for the dog’s well-being.
Final Thoughts
I hope this article has helped you decide if adopting from a dog shelter is right for you.
There are countless wonderful dogs waiting for a loving home, and you might just find your new best friend at your local shelter.
Even if adoption isn’t the right choice for you at the moment, there are still ways you can help.
Shelters always need volunteers and donations, so consider offering your time or resources to support their important work.
By doing so, you’ll have the opportunity to get to know some amazing dogs and make a difference in their lives.
Adopting from a shelter is a life-changing decision, and it’s always inspiring to hear stories from those who have experienced it firsthand.
If you have adopted from a dog shelter, I encourage you to share your thoughts and comments below.
Your insights and experiences can provide valuable encouragement and guidance to others who are considering adoption.
Hi, I’m Jenny, the owner and content creator of First Time Dog Mom. As the proud owner of Ellie, my senior Golden Retriever, I share the insights and tips I’ve learned through my own experiences as a dog mom. With a lifelong love of animals, I hope to be a helpful resource for others navigating the joys and challenges of pet parenthood.
Thank you for mentioning that by adopting a shelter dog, you not only gain a loyal companion but also aid in the closure of puppy mills. We’re going to get our daughter a puppy for her birthday, my husband and I. I believe acquiring one from the shelter is a fantastic idea, and I will be sure to let him know about it. I will also look into local shelters that will assist us in finding our forever dog.
Hi Victoria,
So many shelters and rescues are overwhelmed by the amount of dogs that are being dropped off/abandoned by people, that they really need more people willing to give dogs a forever loving home. I think it’s fantastic that you are considering a local shelter to help you find your forever dog.
I quite often hear from fellow dog owners that their rescue dog is/has been the best dog that they ever had! You will truly gain a loyal and loving companion, as well as help to shut down puppy mills!
Thank you so much for sharing your thoughts, and I wish you all the best with finding your forever dog.
Jenny.
I’ve had 6 dogs now and all were great with their own personalities; 1 border collie/German Shepherd and 5 golden retrievers. I was lucky enough to study psychology with behaviour modification in my first year of university.
Huby was left at our rooming house with no owner. You can’t get a smarter dog than my border collie/shepherd, but my golden’s seemed just as smart. I trained my golden’s to perform with me (see us at Ma Fletcher promotional video) I taught my last guy, Rusty, 100 commands and concepts and we performed at every elementary school in Alberta, the Yukon and the Northwest Territories. What a great way to make a living! Along the way, I also play-wrestled with a 150-pound arctic wolf; Babe. She was to be used for movies so she was not wild, drove a racing dog team just for fun in the Yukon, and did first aid at a number of highway accidents I encountered while on tour. I have medical training from Toronto and now live in Edmonton Alberta.
Ma Fletcher (male)
Hi Ma Fletcher,
Thank you for sharing your story with us. It sounds like you and your dogs have had quite an adventurous life! Golden Retrievers are super smart and easy to train, they absolutely love having a job to do and are so eager to please you. I’m sure your golden Rusty loved performing at the schools, not only because of the job he was doing but for the attention and praise he was getting.
I think it’s wonderful that you have given each of these dogs a second chance at a great life!
Thanks again for taking the time to comment.
Jenny.
I adopted my dog from a rescue organization. She was one of 36 dogs that animal control pulled from a hoarding situation. The dogs all took with them physical and emotional evidence of their difficult past. Molly had clearly given birth to numerous litters. I don’t know how old she is. The foster home where she lived before coming to me was wonderful. She was housebroken there and learned to trust select humans. She’s still very fearful. She can be territorial about our home. She likes other dogs but doesn’t like them getting near me. It’s the only time she becomes aggressive. I have invested in a LOT of dog training, attempting to socialize her and encourage her to develop more confidence. She’s slowly improving.
My advice to would-be adopters is to anticipate issues such as fearfulness and being possessive. When you don’t know the dog’s history, there is a lot of trial-and-error and adjusting on both sides. But once you both settle in, it’s an amazing relationship. I had to wake up VERY early this morning for an appointment. Molly heard the alarm before I did. When I opened my eyes, her face was right there. She was so excited that I was awake. Then she flopped down and began snuggling up to me. What a way to start the day!!
Hi Mandy,
First of all, I would like to thank you for opening up your home to a dog in need of love. All dogs deserve to have a second chance and to have a loving home! So many dogs have a rough background, and it is no wonder they end up being fearful and have aggressive tendencies. The important thing to remember that it is never the dog’s fault, it is usually always the fault of their previous owner/situation.
It is great that Molly already came to you housebroken, as that can be a challenge in itself. It sounds like you are doing a wonderful job with her, and it does take time for both of you to adjust to each other, as well as her adjusting to new surroundings and routine.
The advice you offer for anyone considering adopting is terrific, and will certainly help others to keep an open mind. Adopting a dog with an unknown background can be challenging and takes a lot of hard work and patience, but it can be so rewarding!
It sounds like you and Molly have already established a great bond with each other. That is certainly a great way to start the day!
Thank you so much for sharing your experience and taking the time to comment.
All the best to you and Molly.
Jenny.
Before I went to adopt a dog near our area at orange county animal shelter, I researched what dog would fit my personality and I even consulted a vet for this. This way there would be little to no issues between myself and the dog I had adopted. Right now we are best friends, at first, he was hesitant and scared at the same time but as time passed by, we got used to each other and now we have a strong bond together.
Hi Michael,
I think it is great that you did your research about what breed of dog would best suit your lifestyle and personality. What a good idea to even consult a vet on this, as they are very familiar with different breeds. I am glad to hear that you and your dog have developed a strong bond and have become best friends. The dog and human relationship and bond take hard work, patience, time and understanding, but it is so rewarding when you become best friends.
Thank you for sharing your experience, and I wish you and your dog all the best.
Jenny.
Dogs are the best friend of human since the beginning of civilization. To me, dogs are very adorable. I never adopted dogs from a shelter. If there are opportunities I will go to spend some time volunteering to know about different types of dogs. I wish to adopt a dog when I have my own house and a big space in front of my house.
Hi Fahim,
I think it is great that you are willing to spend some of your time volunteering at a shelter. It is a great way to learn more about different breeds and to see if you are really ready to commit to dog ownership.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts.
Jenny.
My spouse did adopt a dog from a shelter and she was very adorable and loving. She has been the major source of liveliness at home these days and it has been a great experience so far with her. Though she does exhibit some aggressive nature at times but honestly, it’s very evident from her countenance that she is trying her best to reduce her behavioural trait which makes it easier to train her better. She was named Shelly by my spouse.
Hi RoDarrick,
Thank you for sharing your experience. I am happy to hear that you are having a great experience with your dog, Shelly. I am confident that in time Shelly will be a very well trained dog, and will share a special bond with both of you.
I wish you all the best.
Jenny.
Very helpful post, thank you. I’ve been to a dog shelter only a few times in my life so this post is really helpful for when I go back. It’s always so sad when someone abandons a dog. I’m glad you explained no-kill shelters in greater depth because at first glance honestly I would have thought this would be the better option. I found it interesting that you included a link to poop eating! I would not think that this would be a reason that people abandon their dogs. This post brought a lot of insight to things that I had not considered before. I really like how you provided the pros and cons of dog shelter adoption, thus providing an un-biased approach. Even if I don’t adopt a dog I just might go and volunteer soon at a shelter. Thank you and I look forward to reading more of your posts!
Hi Pentrental,
Many people hear the word no-kill and assume it is the best animal shelter, but unfortunately, that is not always the case. Before researching and writing this article, I myself knew very little about the different types of animal shelters, it has opened my eyes as well.
Reasons, why people abandon their dogs, are plenty! Poop eating among dogs is very common, and unfortunately, it is one of the many reasons why people abandon their dog.
I am happy that this article has been helpful to you. Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts.
Jenny.
Hi! Thank you. I need a dog and had initially thought in buying one. But after researching a bit, I have changed my mind. I really hate puppy mills. And wouldn’t like to be part of them.
I read your list of pros and cons. I payed careful attention to the cons, and the one that seemed the most annoying, is perfectly fine with me. I’m referring to answering personal questions or having to wait for approval during the adoption process. And on the other hand, the pros are so good, that I have decided that adopting is my best option.
Hi Henry,
I am happy to hear that you have researched, and decided that adoption is best for you. By adopting, you will help the fight against puppy mills, and of course, saving a dog’s life.
I wish you all the best and thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts.
Jenny.