Oh the JOY! Bringing a new dog into your life is a decision that comes with excitement, companionship, new responsibilities, and a lot of fun! If you’re considering a puppy or an older dog, choosing the right dog for your lifestyle is important to ensure a happy and healthy relationship for both of you. We are here to help with your dog adoption journey; let’s explore how to make the best choice and why adoption is an excellent option.
Understanding Your Lifestyle
Dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and energy levels; think about your lifestyle before choosing your new fur baby. Here are some helpful tips to consider:
Activity Level:
- Are you an active person who enjoys outdoor adventures? High-energy breeds like Border Collies, Labrador Retrievers, or Australian Shepherds (or any pups mixed with these breeds) may be a great fit.
- If you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider a dog with a lower energy level, such as a Basset Hound or a senior dog. Ask the rescue or shelter representative; they will know the dogs they care for and can match you to a dog.
Living Space:
- Friends/family that live in apartments might prefer smaller breeds like dachshunds, chihuahuas, French bulldogs, and Boston Terriers, which adapt well to compact spaces. Most small mixed breeds should be able to adapt to a smaller living space; my dog has five breeds in her beautiful DNA: Dachsand, Poodle, MinPin, Pekingese, and Chihuahua, which is a “Mighty Mutt,” also known as a “Super Cutie” (she does have a cape and crown) and is perfectly content living in a smaller space.
- If you have a large backyard, you could accommodate larger or more active breeds that need room to roam, like German Shepards, Pitbulls, and Jack Russels (small but super active). Consider mixed breeds when adopting. You get the personality traits of several doggos in one.
Time Commitment:
- Puppies require significant time for training, socialization, and care.
- Adult or Senior dogs often come with basic training and may fit better into a busy schedule.
Family Dynamics:
- Do you have littles (little kids)? Look for breeds known for their gentle and tolerant nature, like Golden or Lab Retrievers, Beagles, Poodles, and Pugs. OF course, consider mixed breeds, like doodles, chugs, and puggles. All of these dogs can be found at your local shelter or rescue. Here is the dog rescue resource page in southern California.
The Adoption Journey
Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue saves a life and allows more room for dogs in need. You are directly helping the pet overpopulation in California by adopting a pet. By adopting a dog locally, you are helping your community for the greater good.
Here are more benefits of adopting:
- Save a Life: Thousands of dogs are in local shelters or rescues waiting for loving homes and adoption gives them a second chance.
- Diverse Options: Shelters and Rescues offer dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds, making it easier to find your perfect match.
- Cost-Effective: Adoption fees are often lower than purchasing from breeders and include vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and sometimes microchipping.
- Support a Cause: By adopting, you’re supporting organizations dedicated to animal welfare.
Tips for a Successful Adoption
- Do Your Research: Learn about the breed or mix you’re interested in and their needs.
- Prepare Your Home: Create a safe and comfortable space for your new dog, including a bed, food and water bowls, toys, and a crate.
- Visit the Shelter or Rescue with an Open Mind: Sometimes, the dog you least expect will steal your heart.
- Ask Questions: Speak with the rescue or shelter staff about the dog’s behavior, medical history, and any special needs.
- Be Patient: Allow time for your new pet to decompress and adjust to their new home and routine.
Choosing the right dog or puppy for your lifestyle is a decision that requires some thought and planning. Considering adoption offers a meaningful way to find your perfect pup while giving a deserving animal a loving home.
Happiest New Year and together, let’s make a difference, one adoption at a time.