It’s easy to fall in love with nearly every dog you see. Many people spend hours poring over pictures on pet adoption sites when looking for a dog to add to the family. It’s easy to think that many of the dogs you see on such sites are meant to be yours, but you need to look past the puppy dog eyes and goofy dog smiles to be sure that you adopt a pet that suits your lifestyle.
Here are some tips for finding a dog that will be happy and healthy in your home.
Consider Activity Level
Need a running partner? A Japanese Chin or lazy Frenchie probably isn’t the right choice for you. Conversely, if you live a low-activity lifestyle—or just don’t have the time to heavily exercise your pet—you should avoid dogs with a lot of energy and a desire to go, go, go!
Think About Grooming Needs
Bichon Frises, Afghan Hounds, and Poodles are beautiful, but they also require a LOT of grooming. That can be expensive and time-consuming. There’s nothing wrong with a high-maintenance pooch, but such a commitment isn’t suitable for everyone. That’s why the level of grooming that’s required should be overlooked.
Size Matters
The idea of a Great Dane or Cane Corso may be tempting, but these gentle giants may not be right for you if you live in a small apartment. Some big dogs are happy to lounge around all day in a small space, but you’ll still need room for all their gear and must consider if you want to spend the next decade sharing a small living area with a Marmaduke-sized pooch.
Other things to consider with extra-large dogs include:
- The Food Bill: Don’t underestimate how much giant dogs eat. You’re in for a hefty monthly food bill if you choose a large dog.
- Cost: From vet care to grooming and food to daycare, everything costs more for huge dogs.
- Weight Restrictions: Some hotels and apartments have pet weight limits. This can be problematic if you plan on moving into a different rental or would like to travel with your pet.
Does He Play Well with Others?
Even if you don’t have other pets, you should know whether or not the dog you’re considering gets along with other dogs or cats. This is important if you plan to have your friends’ pets come around or, more importantly, if you’d like to adopt more animals in the future. If the dog is a bit of a loner, that’s not necessarily a dealbreaker; it’s just one more thing to think about when deciding if a particular dog suits your lifestyle.
Special Needs?
Shelters and animal rescue groups have many adoptable dogs who need a home. In some cases, caring for special needs dogs could be as simple as administering medication. Other times, the care required may be more intensive. Some special needs dogs don’t require any extra care at all, and they just have something a bit different about them, such as a missing limb. If you have it in your heart, consider adopting a special needs pup.
Bonded Pairs
Special needs pets have a hard time finding a home, and so do bonded pairs. A bonded pair refers to two dogs or cats who are highly attached to each other and don’t do well when separated. Two dogs are twice the love and twice the fun, and just think of the joy you’ll bring to your home and to the bonded dogs who will be able to stay together!
The Click Factor
Do you believe in love at first sight? It can happen with pets as well as humans! While an instant connection won’t happen with every dog, sometimes you’ll get lucky, and you’ll “just know” as soon as you meet a dog.
Don’t Rush It
You’re not just looking for A dog; you’re looking for the RIGHT dog. If you visit the shelter and don’t feel like any of the dogs you see are a good fit, don’t force it. It’s easy to fall in love with every dog but take your time to make sure you find a pet that’s a perfect fit instead of making a snap decision.
One thing is sure: There is no shortage of dogs who need a loving home, so finding the right one isn’t a matter of if but when. Adopting a dog isn’t like buying a new pair of shoes—and you shouldn’t just plan on returning him if he doesn’t work out. Bringing a pet into your home is a lifelong commitment. Taking time to learn about the dog on the front end will ensure a perfect fit so that you can enjoy a lifetime of love and companionship!
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