How to Pick A Shelter Dog

Adopting an animal from a shelter can be extremely rewarding. As long as you pick the dog that's right for you and your situation, adopting a homeless dog is a much better experience than buying from a breeder.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Source of income
• Appropriately sized home

1. Locate your local humane society or animal shelter. If you're looking for a purebred dog, you can usually find a breed-specific rescue to adopt from.

2. Decide on what type of dog you are looking for. There are many pros and cons between choosing a mixed-breed or pure-bred. Purebred dogs often have genetic health issues, such as bone cancer in Greyhounds and Hip Displaysia in Shepherds.

3. 
    
   While quite large, Greyhounds are typically laid back and need less excersise than other Large breeds

   Learn about your desired dog's size, temperament and exercise requirements. For a small apartment, you might want to look into dogs such as the Pomeranian or Poodle. If you are looking for a family dog, a good choice would be any kind of Labrador or a Collie.

4. Decide what age dog you are looking to adopt. If you are lacking in time or patience, you may want to go with an older dog. Puppies and younger dogs will require much more training and supervision.

5. When you decide on a dog, make sure to ask questions about its history. Find out if it has had problems with children, cats, etc. Be sure you know the individual dog's personality. A shy, quiet dog may be more likely to feel threatened by a child and bite.

6. Prepare your house ahead of time. Buy toys, food, dishes, bedding and a leash. Move anything poisonous or harmful, such as cleaning agents to a cupboard your dog can't get into. Act like you are child-proofing your home.

Tips & Warnings

• A dog training book is always a good idea, no matter what dog you choose.
• In order for your dog to be as healthy as possible, look into higher quality food.
• Learn what ingredients to look for when picking out a brand of dog food.
• Never leave a dog alone with a child unsupervised, no matter how well they know each other and get along.
• Always keep your dog on a leash

Resources

• Humane Society of the United States

[Mindee94]

on 4/18/2009 Great pointers! Dogs are such an undertaking not to be entered lightly. History of the dog is very pertinent in finding the correct match! These tips will help keep our pet friends happy and from not reentering a shelter in the future. Thanx

[kingofbastion]

on 4/18/2009 Thanks for the support, i was a little worried about how my first article would turn out. Both pictures were taken by me of my own dogs, so there will be alot more like this. If anyone has any suggestions for more animal-related articles, i'd be happy to hear them.

[consignmentchic]

on 4/17/2009 These are all great tips on picking up a doggie from a animal shelter! Nice photos too. Our 10-yr old rottie died just one week ago today, we are already thinking of adding a new doggie to the household! 5* and I recommended you. Welcome to eHow!

[lovesherboys]

on 4/17/2009 Great tips for picking a shelter dog :)

[aquaeyedgirl]

on 4/16/2009 My little black Lab-mix came from a shelter and I could not have asked for a better pup! Good article!~