Skip to main content

How to find the shelter dog that fits your lifestyle

So, you’ve decided to welcome a shelter dog into your heart and home. Good for you! Too many people buy into the myth that if you adopt a pet from a shelter, you’re inheriting someone else’s problem. The truth is, most dogs end up in shelters because of human problems such as divorce, a move, or families having no time for the dog. Most shelter dogs are happy and healthy and just waiting for someone like you to offer them a loving home. Finding a shelter dog that fits your lifestyle does take time, but in return, you get to share your home with a devoted companion.

Why you should adopt a dog from a shelter

  • Because you’re saving a life. According to the most recent statistics compiled by Best Friends Animal Society, 625,000 animals were euthanized at shelters across the U.S. in 2019.
  • Many shelter dogs are already house trained and used to living with families and other pets.
  • When you adopt from a reputable shelter, the cost of spaying/neutering, first vaccinations, and sometimes even microchipping is included in the adoption fee.
  • You’re helping in the fight against puppy mills. According to leading animal welfare groups, puppy mills still exist because unsuspecting consumers shop in pet stores, over the internet, or through classified ads.
Young woman choosing dog at shelter.
Hedgehog94/Shutterstock

Do your research before visiting shelters

A list of dogs available for adoption is right at your fingertips. You can begin by searching the adoption lists from your local shelters. These will give you access to photos and profiles of each dog available for adoption. For a wider search, go to Petfinder.com. This site has an online directory of homeless pets at thousands of shelters and rescues across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Since there are so many adoption scams online, you can feel confident searching the Petfinder database because all the shelters go through a screening process before being listed.

Related Videos

Petfinder has a wonderful “Get Personalized Pet Matches” feature that asks a series of questions and provides a list of dogs in your area that are considered a good match for your lifestyle based on your responses. Those questions include:

Who lives in your household?

If the family includes children, you’ll need to consider that when adopting. Many families think puppies and kids work well together, but this isn’t always the case. Like kids, pups require lots of time and training, and families with children don’t always have this time. Adult dogs are often a much better choice for families with children.

Do you currently have pets?

If you already have a dog or other pets, you’re looking for a pup that gets along with other animals. Most shelters will ask that you bring your current dog to meet the dog you’re interested in adopting.

Do you have a size or breed preference?

It’s important to consider your living space when choosing a dog size. If you live in a home with a fenced-in yard, then a large active dog might be a good fit. However, you would probably do better with a medium or smaller laid-back breed if you live in an apartment or condo.

What’s your activity level?

Active individuals or families who like to go for long runs, walks, or hikes should look for a high-energy dog, while a household that’s more into relaxing might look for a smaller, less active breed.

Are allergies a concern?

It’s important to know there’s no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. However, dog breeds or breed mixes who are no-shed or low-shed often make great companions for allergy sufferers.

Woman kissing dog.
Samson Katt/Pexels

5 questions to ask before signing the pet-adoption agreement

  1. Why is the dog in the shelter? Was he a stray, rescued from a high-kill shelter, or surrendered by the owner? If the owner left the dog at the shelter, what reason was given?
  2. Does the dog have any training? Some shelters work with trainers who conduct temperament tests or behavioral assessments. If this is the case, ask if you can see the results of these tests.
  3. Has the dog been adopted out before? If yes, why was he returned? Don’t let this stop you from adopting, as it could simply mean that the previous adopters weren’t willing to work with the dog.
  4. What kind of medical care has the dog received? Is he fixed, heartworm tested, and current on vaccinations?
  5. Do you offer postadoption support? Many shelters provide a trainer or experienced volunteer to help adopters with issues that may arise as the dog adjusts to his new life.

Volunteering at your local shelter is a great way to get to know the dogs. If a particular dog catches your interest, you could spend time walking and playing with him. Fostering also offers a wonderful opportunity to see how a dog would adjust to your lifestyle while giving him a welcome break from the shelter. Many adoptions begin as fosters, so don’t be surprised if you quickly fall in love and adopt your new best friend.

Editors' Recommendations

Can huskies be aggressive? It depends on the circumstances
Huskies can be hyperactive, but are they aggressive? Experts weigh in
A blue-eyed Siberian husky puppy sitting on grass

With their luxurious coats and striking blue eyes, huskies are an immediately recognizable breed. Given their size and stubborn personalities, many prospective husky parents wonder, "Are huskies aggressive?" According to the American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard, "The characteristic temperament of the Siberian husky is friendly and gentle [...] he does not display the possessive qualities of the guard dog, nor is he overly suspicious of strangers or aggressive with other dogs."

That being said, just because the AKC breed standard claims huskies aren't an aggressive breed doesn't mean they can't become aggressive in certain circumstances. We'll go over the different types of aggression in dogs, how to deal with your pup if he becomes aggressive, and -- most importantly -- we'll walk you through the warning signs of aggression, so you can nip it in the bud before it starts.

Read more
New Year’s resolutions that can make you a better pet parent in 2023
5 ways you can become the best pet parent this year
A woman strokes a blue-eyed white dog while outside

We all kick off the new year with resolutions, but for pet lovers, the goal to be a better pet parent is a resolution worth keeping. From teaching your fur babies to get along to helping your cat kick a treat addiction, there are plenty of things we can do to improve our four-legged friends' quality of life. We'll take a deep dive into the top New Year's resolutions pet parents should make to ensure their furry companions stay happy and healthy throughout 2023.

How to set a New Year's resolution you'll keep
We all start off the new year with the best of intentions, vowing to eat healthier, get more exercise, and spend less time doomscrolling on social media. However, by the end of January, the vast majority of people have already started to backslide -- or have given up on their resolutions altogether. But when you're setting resolutions with your fur babies in mind, keeping them is more important than ever. Try:

Read more
How cold is too cold for dogs? What you should know
Signs that your dog is too cold in the outdoor winter conditions
An Australian shepherd playing outside in the snow

Your dog is more than just your constant companion; he's also a beloved member of the family. No matter the season, frequent exercise, a well-balanced diet, and outdoor playtime are essential to your dog's health and happiness.

Not only does exercise prevent obesity, but it also provides the mental stimulation your pup needs to lower the risk of mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. We're all aware of the potential dangers of overheating, but what should we do when temperatures drop? At what point is taking your pup outside for a walk more harmful than helpful? How cold is too cold for dogs?

Read more