- Pumpkin Team
- 22 hours ago
- 6 min read
Key Points
Research adoption options and choose reputable shelters or rescues that are transparent and trustworthy.
Find the right fit by matching a dog’s size, energy, and temperament to your lifestyle.
Prepare for lifelong care. Line up a veterinarian, plan for expenses, and consider pet insurance.
Adopting a puppy might just be the only life decision where “love at first sight” is actually real. One minute you’re scrolling through adoption listings, the next you’re rearranging your living room to fit a crate, chew toys, and a food bowl that’s three times bigger than you thought you’d need.
Whether you’re adopting from a shelter or rescue group, every adoption organization is different. With so many lovable, adoptable dogs out there, you’re bound to meet your match, but before you dive in, it helps to know what to expect (and what to avoid) before adopting a puppy.
The difference between shelters and rescue groups
Believe it or not, there are a few differences in the adoption process across shelters and rescue dog groups, and knowing them can help you determine how you want to move forward with confidence.
A local shelter is typically funded by local governments, and houses animals that have either been surrendered or abandoned by their previous owners. A rescue group is usually a private, volunteer-run organization that takes in animals from various circumstances. Whereas shelters have more dogs to choose from, rescues provide prospective adopters the opportunity to consider breed, temperament, and other dog traits.
Both are excellent options, and certainly ethical (unlike puppy mills and irresponsible breeders). There are many dogs in need of a new home, and adoption is a great way to change their lives for the better.
How to browse rescues responsibly
Although most rescue groups have dogs’ best interests in mind, a few do not operate with the same level of care or integrity. We highly recommend that you do your own research before contacting one, making sure it’s a trustworthy, reputable organization with a history of successfully rehoming and caring for dogs.
If you decide to adopt from a rescue, it’s important to also prioritize transparency: always ask where they get their dogs from, and if they have any relevant birth and medical records or documents that you can access. Ask about what policies they have in place to further protect their dogs, especially when it comes to ensuring a good fit with their new owner and rehoming circumstances.
Most reputable rescues should be able to freely share this information with you. If a group is hesitant or dodges your questions, take that as a warning sign and trust your instincts.
Finding the right new dog for you
Adopting a puppy is a big decision and should not be taken lightly. Before jumping straight into the process, think about the reasons why you want a dog. Make sure you’re pursuing adoption with the intention of welcoming a lifelong companion and adjusting your life to give them the love they deserve.
There are several factors to consider when finding the right dog for you. Depending on your lifestyle, home setting, and activity level, your preferred breed might vary. For instance, if you have a large and spacious home with a backyard, you may think about adopting a larger breed, like a Golden Retriever. However, if you live in a small apartment in a more urban setting, you might prefer a smaller, less active dog like a French Bulldog. Like people, dogs have different personalities and needs. Research to find out which one will work best for you.
Bear in mind that most rescue groups or shelters will have mixed breeds with unknown origins. Some prospective dog owners might feel hesitant, not knowing how big their dog will be or how their energy levels will pan out, but it’s good to keep an open mind. Even purebreds fall on a spectrum of temperament and disposition, so don’t count out a perfectly lovable mutt! There are also plenty of amazing dog DNA test kits out there that can help you learn about your pup’s traits and ideal lifestyle.
The dog application process
A shelter or rescue group can have many available dogs. However, because it’s crucial that they go to loving homes with the right family, organizations will often require you to submit an application. If your adoption application is initially accepted, the animal shelter can contact you for a follow-up interview and may even ask for official references.
Typically, adoption centers ask for more information about your home: whether you rent or own property, how many other family members or pets you have, and if you have prior experience owning and caring for a dog. They will also want to make sure that your home is pet friendly: so if you have a landlord, you’ll need to get their written or verbal approval before adopting a puppy.
If your application is accepted, you’ll be able to meet your dog and see if you’re a right fit for their temperament and background. Some dogs require additional medical care or need homes that meet certain requirements; ensure that you’re in a good place to provide both if needed. Depending on the shelter or rescue, they might also allow you to foster the dog for a set amount of time. During your foster care, you can then see how compatible you are, and make a more informed decision afterwards.
In the end, you may need to pay an adoption fee that covers various expenses, such as vaccinations and microchipping. But if your heart tells you that you’ve found “the one,” the costs will be well worth it!
Connect with a veterinarian
It’s extremely important that you find proper veterinary care after adopting a puppy, as emergencies or unexpected events can happen at any time. Whether you have to get them a microchip, ask for a deworming treatment, or look into a potential spay/neuter procedure, partnering and communicating with your veterinarian will help you maximize your dog’s health.
You may want to explore a few options before choosing a primary veterinarian.
Look for a veterinarian who fits your budget and offers convenient hours, clear communication, and a full range of services, from routine vaccines to emergency care, so your puppy is well supported at every stage.
New puppy responsibilities
Bringing home a new best friend is exciting, but it’s also a big commitment. Young pups can’t be left alone for long and usually need potty breaks every couple of hours. If they’re not yet house-trained, you’ll need to teach them this skill with patience and consistency.
Puppies are full of energy and need plenty of play, exercise, and attention. If you prefer calm evenings after work, an older dog might suit you better. But if you’re active, work from home, or have help from family or friends, a puppy could be the perfect fit.
What to get a new puppy
It’s handy to have all your puppy supplies ready before your pup moves in. It might be helpful to have a designated closet, cupboard, or shelf where all your puppy supplies are kept for easy access when you need them. Here’s a short list of the key things to get:
Dog bed(s)
Puppy toys, including puppy teething toys
A helpful book like The Puppy Primer by Dr. Patricia McConnell
Why you should get pet insurance along with a new puppy
Pet insurance works best when you enroll your furry friend as soon as you bring them home. A pet insurance plan can help pay for unexpected veterinary bills when your new puppy gets sick or hurt during their vulnerable first years –– and beyond. Plus, getting accident and illness coverage means you can make care decisions based on what’s best for your pet — not what it costs.
Be patient and loving
Many rescue or shelter dogs have suffered neglect or abuse (good organizations will make you aware of this!), so depending on their background, it may take some time for them to adjust and bond with you. Gentle puppy socialization can greatly benefit your pooch as they adapt to their new life. Your dog will have to practice how to behave around people and animals, as this determines their long-term ability to safely interact with others in various settings. Training your dog isn’t an overnight feat, and it’ll require a lot of patience and love.
With that said, turning your house into a dog home is an incredible experience that will change your life for the better. As long as you show proper care, love, and attention, your dog will become a happy, confident member of your family in no time.
