April 30th is National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day. Each year, National Adopt a Shelter Pet Day raises awareness for the thousands of pets that are awaiting their forever homes in shelters. It also helps raise awareness for the need for shelter volunteers and expenses. The Perfect Pup works with several different Connecticut shelters to place dogs in loving homes. If you are considering adopting a dog, there are several factors to consider on how to pick the right dog to adopt. Where you live, how many children you have, and the amount of care you can give should all influence your decision on how to pick the right dog to adopt.
How to Pick the Right Dog to Adopt
Picking the right dog to adopt for where you live
The size of your living space should heavily influence the type of dog you adopt. If you live in an apartment, you may want to adopt a dog that is small and quiet. If the apartment is in more of an urban setting, you will also want to consider the exercise requirements for the dog. Often small urban apartments do not have access to a yard so you will have to walk your dog regularly. Alternatively, you could also bring them to the city dog park. If you do own a larger home with an expansive yard, you can consider a larger dog that may have more exercise requirements. You should also consider your neighbors when picking a dog. A dog that is more vocal when you are not home may irritate your neighbors.
Picking a dog to adopt that matches your energy level
Are you an active person that likes to jog or hike or do you prefer to stay home? A dog that has a lot of energy can easily tire an owner who is not as active. Dogs that are active and high energy can develop troublesome behaviors if they don’t get enough exercise. The best dog match for you is one whose activity needs are similar to yours.
What age should the dog be that I adopt?
There are pros and cons to adopting a young or old dog. You should base this decision on your ability to care for your new pet. Puppies are often adopted out before they are housetrained. Puppies also have a lot more energy than older dogs and will need basic obedience training. Adult dogs are often calmer and usually come housetrained. There is also the gamble of not knowing the dog’s medical history and personality. Also, some older dogs may not do well around small children.
Picking a dog based on grooming needs
If you are uninterested in having more cleaning to do, you should not adopt a dog that sheds a lot. Many breeds shed more than others. You should also take into account of whether you have time to bring the dog to the groomer if it needs it. Even if the dog is a mixed breed, they may retain some of the traits of the breed which may mean more trips to the groomer, more brushing, and more vacuuming.