Tips For Adopting An Adult Dog

Most often, when people talk about adopting a dog, it is taken for granted that they are referring to adopting a puppy, but many people are more interested in adopting an adult dog. Adult dogs have usually already experienced being in a home with a family, and for some reason have been surrendered for adoption to a shelter.

They can be just as loving, as much fun, as great a companion and just as loyal as if you had raised them from the beginning. Also, they can be finished with potty training, teething, chewing, and will be excited to join your family.

Making the right choice…

Obviously, if you are adopting an adult dog, whether from a shelter or a previous owner, you should learn as much about him/her and his past as possible. This will not only help you to know about his past, but also help you give him a better future.

•  Ask general questions:
  • How did he get to the shelter?
    • Was he a stray
    • Was he surrendered by a previous owner, if so, why.
  • Did he have any medical issues or injuries?
  • How long has he been at the shelter?
  • How does he interact around other dogs?
  • Is he house trained?
• Ask questions about his temperament: It’s important to know how your potential dog reacts and what type of personality he has. Is he anxious, shy, friendly, laid back or aggressive. How does he act around people, especially children?
• Ask questions about his health: 
  • Has he been microchipped? If so, find out how to get him registered under your name.
  • Is there a record of vaccinations?
  • Has he been examined by a veterinarian, or is there a record available from the previous owner?
  • Has he been previously dewormed?
• Ask questions about his food (and treats): It’s important, if possible, to feed your new dog food that he is used to eating. It will help him to be comfortable in his new home and also help to avoid upset stomachs because his diet was changed. If you feel a different type of diet would be better for him, make the change slowly once he is feeling secure in his new home.

Dogs aren’t perfect, like us they come with little quirks which are easy to work with and overcome. Be patient, loving and consistent with your new friend, and you’ll end up with a buddy for life.

I believe that the most effective method of dog training revolves around teaching your dog what you want them to do, how to behave, how to act in their environment, and what appropriate behaviors are, under given circumstances and situations.

If you’re having a difficult time training your dog, don’t have the time to train him properly, or you would like to learn along with your pup, Contact me or check out my family friendly classes.