People put their pets up for adoption for any number of reasons. It’s easy to assume these reasons are selfish, but sadly some are forced to re-home their four-legged friends because they’ve lost their jobs and homes, or because disability renders them unable to care for their animals. It’s never an easy decision to surrender a pet, but sometimes it’s the right thing to do. Have a question? Get an answer from a Vet now!

A Tough Call

Having a dog is a great responsibility. Dogs rely on their owners for more than just playing fetch and affection. They need shelter, food and veterinary care. When owners are scrambling to provide their dogs with the basics and find themselves slipping on annual vaccinations, it’s time for them to consider making a difficult choice. Re-homing your best friend may be the most difficult thing you have to do, but you will ultimately be fulfilling your promise to ensure his safety and well-being.

Time Is of the Essence

Regardless of the reason, those looking to put their dogs up for adoption must leave themselves plenty of time to take the necessary steps to ensure their pets end up in safe, loving homes. Re-homing a pet requires more than just a few days, a couple of weeks and even a month. Time is needed not only to find someone willing to take in a new dog, but also to check that person’s background and references. Give yourself at least two months.

Rescue Organizations

The first thing to do is check out local rescue organizations. Even if they are overwhelmed and cannot immediately take your pooch and put him in a foster home, they might be able to help spread the word about your situation. Of course you can advertise your dog online without any help, but rescues can save you time in dealing with respondents. They have experience weeding out puppy mill owners and others whose intentions for adoptable dogs may be less than stellar.

No-Kill Shelters

People who are trying to re-home their dog should also check out no-kill shelters, even if they aren’t nearby. Shelters are usually overwhelmed, but may still be able to help. If a no-kill shelter is far away, there are transportation services available. Rescue organizations or sites like the Shelter Exchange, a nonprofit organization that provides a free Web service that helps connect dogs with adopters, should be able to suggest safe and reputable transportation companies or volunteers.

Dogs acquired from an animal shelter, rescue organization or private party can provide you with years of enjoyable companionship, but any new dog can present some initial challenges. Be prepared for Fido to experience some behavior problems, such as temporary anxieties or relapses in house-training, after you bring him home. Have a question? Get an answer from a Vet now!

Manage Expectations

Your adopted dog may have previous house-training, or he may never have been taught the rules of living in a house or apartment. Regardless of training history, all shelter dogs endure a certain amount of stress from being displaced, from being around barking dogs, and from experiences they may have had in the street. Even a previously well-trained dog may revert to inappropriate soiling when he arrives in the new home.

Start at the Beginning

For the first few weeks, proceed as though Fido isn’t house-trained, and take necessary precautions to prevent accidents. Limit the dog’s access to your home until he or she is reliable. Use a crate, baby gate or leash to confine Fido when you can’t supervise his actions. If he was once house-trained, the re-training process should progress quickly; some dogs catch on after just a few days of instruction.

House-training Basics

“House-training your dog or puppy requires far more than a few stacks of old newspapers — it calls for vigilance, patience, plenty of commitment and above all, consistency,” says the Humane Society of the United States on its website. House-training is best when the dog owner helps the dog be successful. The owner watches the dog and looks for signs that needs to go out, such as sniffing and circling. Take Fido outside and reward him for good behavior when he performs the task. HSUS provides instructions for accomplishing house-training goals on its website.

Special Problems

House-training should go smoothly if you follow a solid plan. New dog owners should invest in a dog training class, which is likely to cover house-training topics. However, physical or emotional issues can cause elimination problems. Check with your veterinarian or an animal behaviorist if you encounter prolonged training problems. Although house-training can be frustrating and unpleasant, never take your frustrations out on Fido, or you could make the problem much worse. Kathy Salzberg stress the importance of remaining calm on NetPlaces.com. “Never scream angrily at your dog or hit it with your hand or a newspaper if it has an accident. Rubbing its nose in it doesn’t work either. The dog will become afraid and confused, and it will learn to distrust you as well,” she says in an article about house-training problems.

Chances are you’ve considered adoption as a way to bring a new dog into your home. While you understand the importance of adoptions, you may not know of all the benefits of adopting a rescue dog. Whether you’re looking to do a great thing for animals or you want to make sure you find the best pet, adoption is a great option. That’s just the beginning, though. You’ll be amazed at how beneficial adopting a rescue dog can be. Have a question? Get an answer from a Vet now!

You’ll Save a Life

Most dog shelters euthanize dogs. When you adopt a rescue dog, you’re saving that dog’s life. This is an incredibly rewarding experience.

The Shelter Will Have Room for Another Dog

Not only are you giving a home to one dog, but you may save the life of another by making room in the shelter. Shelters that don’t euthanize can only help so many dogs before they fill up. When you adopt, they have room for one more.

The Dog Will Be Heathier

Dogs in shelters have usually been checked out by the vet, fixed and are up-to-date on shots. This means that you’re adopting a dog you know is healthy. If there are any issues, the shelter will be upfront with you so there are no surprises.

You’ll Save Money

Adopting a dog is much more affordable than buying a dog from a pet store or breeder. While price varies from shelter to shelter, you will save money not only on the cost of the dog, but on vet care. Most rescue dogs have already been fixed, which can save hundreds.

You Won’t Support Puppy Mills

You never know what conditions a pet store dog was raised in, which means you may be supporting puppy mills. When you adopt, you’re putting one less sale into the pockets of irresponsible breeders.

You’ll Sleep Better

It feels good knowing that the pet you just brought into your life is a dog that you saved. You won’t have to question your decision the way you would if had you bought a dog. You’ll know you did the right thing.

You’ll Help Reduce the Pet Population Problem

When you buy from a pet store, you create a demand for more puppies. This means breeders will continue to breed their dogs to make more sales. When you adopt, you’re giving a home to an abandoned dog and preventing the need for additional breeding.

Many Rescued Dogs are Already Trained

Some shelters raise dogs in foster homes, which means the dog has already been exposed to house training. Dogs that have been abandoned by their owners may also be trained to live indoors. This can make owning a pet even more enjoyable.

You Can Find Puppies and Purebreds

Dog shelters have pure bred dogs and puppies. If you absolutely must have either, visit the shelters in your area and see what your options are.

Shelters Can Help You Find the Right Dog

You have no idea what the temperament of a puppy is when you’re shopping at pet stores. Pet shelters know the temperament of the dogs in the shelter and can help you find the right dog for you. This helps prevent the need to give the dog up in the future.

An adopted dog will often need an adjustment period and a lot of extra love and attention while he adapts to being part of a loving family again. Shelter dogs have unknown and often unhappy pasts, but can blossom when they become a member of a family. Time and patience will result in a happy dog that your family will treasure. Have a question? Get an answer from a Vet now!

1Prepare your home beforehand. Remove any items he could choke on and put up any electrical wires. Change is stressful, and behavior problems may arise while he adjusts to his new environment. Set up a crate or a safe room where he can stay when you are not home to watch him. Place his food and water bowls in the area so he sees it as his.

2Walk him around your property first when you bring him home, keeping him on the leash so he doesn’t wander off. Give him plenty of time to investigate every inch of the yard if he wants to, and lead him to all areas he will use. Walk him long enough for him to empty his bladder as well so he will be less likely to mark indoors.

3Take him inside when he is done exploring the yard. Keep him on the leash as he explores his new home. Walk him from room to room, allowing him to stop and explore as much as he wants. Do not rush this process. If he attempts to mark his new territory, stop him by saying “no” loudly and take him outside to urinate.

4Show him his crate or area where his food and water bowls are. Fill both bowls and allow him to eat or drink if he wants. Remove his leash and allow him to roam freely, but watch him carefully. Take him outdoors to potty every two hours. Shower him with affection and hand out treats when he potties in the right place or behaves properly.

5Continue keeping him under supervision for several weeks while he adjusts. Once he is comfortable in his new home and has learned what is acceptable, he can be left to roam freely if that is what you prefer.

Adopted dogs and children need to get along or the pet may find itself returned to the shelter.

According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and studies reported in the Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science, 20 percent of dogs in shelters were adopted from shelters. The adopters returned their pets for a variety of reasons, most having to do with behavior problems, conflicts between the new pet and in-home pets or a problem between the owner’s children and the new pet. Have a question? Get an answer from a Vet now!

Behavioral Problems

Almost a third–28 percent–of pet owners who return their pets do so because of a behavior problem. Many shelter dogs end up in the shelter because of behavior issues, only to be adopted out again–and returned again–for the same issues. Problems such as destructive behavior, inappropriate elimination, aggression, excessive barking, escaping, and other unwanted behaviors can lead to the owner’s dissatisfaction, and the dog’s return to the shelter. Some owners are unwilling or unable to correct their new dog’s behavior problems and return the animal. In many cases either the owners were not informed of the dog’s behaviors, or they held different expectations.

Conflicts Between Pets

Of the pet owners returning their dogs to the shelter, 19 percent cited that the dog did not get along with the other pets in the household. Bringing a new dog into a household of other pets often disturbs the hierarchy established by the other pets. The owner will often shower attention on the new addition to the dismay of the current pets, thus causing strife between them. Dogs will often behave differently at a shelter than in a household, so it is difficult to judge if the new dog will fit in.

Conflicts Between Dog and Children

One problem that causes dogs to be returned to the shelter are conflicts with the child or children in the household. These conflicts ranged from the children stressing the dog to the dog being too rambunctious for the children. Around 15 percent of owners returned their pets for this reason, and 4 percent of owners expected their children to care for the pet. In these cases, the shelter failed to match the family to the appropriate pet.

Other Reasons

Other reasons for shelter returns include that the dog got too large, the owner or family member had an allergic reaction, the dog had a health issue or the owner didn’t have enough time to spend with the pet.

Reduction of Dog Returns

Most returns occur from a failed set of expectations. The adopter often has a skewed perception of pet ownership and the role a dog plays in it. To reduce returns, shelters need to educate their potential adopters better as well as screen the people looking to adopt a pet. If the shelter educates the new pet owner on what to expect in the dog’s behavior, health, and cost, the pet owner may be able to make an informed decision regarding the pet they adopt.

Early German breeders developed the German Shepherd Dog from herding and farm dogs. Today’s German Shepherd Dog embodies the versatility needed to excel at various careers like policing, tracking, drug sniffing, search and rescue, and assisting.

The GSD’s history traces to the 1890s, when German calvary officer Capt. Max von Stephanitz sought to perfect a superior herding dog from his native country. He admired intelligent, strong dogs and saw many superior traits in native herding breeds. Despite his search, however, he didn’t find one that embodied his ideals until he attended a dog show with a friend in 1899.

Known as the father of the breed, von Stephanitz spied a dog named Hektor Linksrhein who impressed him so much that he purchased him on the spot and formed Verein für Deutsche Schäferhunde (SV), of Society for the German Shepherd Dog, later that year. This milestone in the GSD’s history marked its entry into the purebred-dog arena.

Von Stephanitz renamed the dog Horand von Grafeth, and his seed became the genetic starting point for the breed we know today. Horand’s most celebrated son was Hektor v. Shwaben, who in turn sired Heinz v. Starkenburg and his little brothers Beowolf and Pilot. Each of these dogs produced offspring who became pillars in the development of the German Shepherd Dog. As president of the SV, von Stephanitz guided the German Shepherd breeding programs. He followed the credo that the GSD should be bred for utility and intelligence above all else.

The German Shepherd Dog breed made its debut in the United States in the early 1900s and got its biggest boost in popularity after World War I when GSDs served as messenger, rescue, sentry and personal guard dogs alongside servicemen. Big-screen superstars Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart also helped promote the breed as loyal family dogs and home guardians.

The American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd Dog in 1908 as part of the registry’s Herding Group. Though the dogs retain their shepherding heritage, German Shepherds are now predominantly used as service animals and family companions. GSDs consistently remain near the top of the AKC’s most-registered breeds, securing their spot as one of the country’s most admired dogs.

You might know that caring for a dog can help children learn to be more responsible, but studies show that dogs also boost self-esteem in children, enhance social skills, and help them to be more cooperative and share. Whether you’re looking for a purebred dog or mixed-breed dog, here are a few that typically do well with children. Remember, an adult must always supervise interactions between any dog and children, and the kids must be taught to treat dogs gently and respectfully.

Airedale Terrier

The “King of the Terriers” is hugely versatile, performing successfully as a hunter, guide dog for the blind, livestock herder, elegant show dog, and loving family pet. Airedale Terriers are smart, sensitive, and playful, making them fabulous companions for children. More>>

Australian Shepherd

Australian Shepherds are active, intelligent “people dogs” who want nothing more than to be a part of the family. Happy to travel to kids’ baseball games, join in on fun outings like trips to the beach, and herd the kids around the yard, Aussies make wonderful companions for respectful children who are taught to behave properly around the dog.

Beagle

It’s hard to deny the Beagle’s rightful place in a fun-loving pack of “Peanuts,” though Beagles are more engaged and sincere than the ever-famous Snoopy and just as entertaining. This short-haired miniature hound loves to be a part of the family and to be involved in everyday things. He will follow little ones around the house and yard, keeping one eye on them and the other on mischief of his own. He needs a good parent to train him and teach him manners since he’s naturally a curious little fellow with big-dog ideas of his won.

Bearded Collie

Described as bouncy and exuberant—ideal for keeping happy kids active and moving— the Bearded Collie lives to be around children. With its long, easycare, unkempt coat and athletic build, the Beardie loves to participate in fun activities and sports, like jogging, running alongside a bicycle, hiking, and chasing sheep (get some!). The Bearded Collie’s strong sheepdog instincts can lead to its gathering (herding) young people or even nipping at their Nikes: parents must train the dog to know the difference between kids and ewes and supervise so that the dog’s nanny instincts are properly channeled.

Bernese Mountain Dog

For the family with children seeking a large dog, the Bernese Mountain Dog makes a docile, sweet-natured companion. With its long, silky black coat marked with characteristic white and rust, the Bernese stands up to 27.5 inches at the shoulder. It is a versatile outdoor dog whose smart and confident demeanor recommend it for the job of child’s companion. They are known to be able to do anything from pulling carts, herding cows, guarding the home, yard and farm, and even babysitting the kids.

Bichon Frise

This animated powder puff is a lovely companion for older children, and fits perfectly in any household, from suburban living to big-city apartments. The beautiful, plush, snow-white coat is low shedding dog breed but needs regular professional grooming to maintain. The Bichon Frise might be suitable for people with dog allergies.

Boston Terrier

Playful, gentle, and affectionate, the Boston Terrier makes a great pal. Sturdy enough to enjoy rough play, they want to be with you and are not backyard dogs. This compact, smart breed is easy to care for, requires minimal exercise, and does best when his humans show gentle leadership.

Boxer

The handsome Boxer is as loyal and dignified as he is affectionate and energetic. When trained and socialized, Boxers are tireless and downright silly companions for youngsters. Supervise to make sure 50 to 85 pounds of Boxer don’t knock over your kids and their friends.

Bulldog

The lumbering, gentle Bulldog is both sturdy and slow—a great match for families with kids. Often referred to as the English Bulldog, this dignified dog breed is typically an even-tempered and agreeable fellow, and tends to form tight bonds with children.

Bullmastiff

Created using a blend of 60 percent Mastiff and 40 percent Bulldog, the powerful Bullmastiff combines the best of both dog breeds in a large, strong package. This dog breed is devoted to his family, adores children, and possesses a protective but mellow outlook, making the Bullmastiff one of the better extra-large breeds for city living.

Bull Terrier

Like all terriers, the Bull Terrier is active and full of personality, and this sometimes comical breed is especially ready for fun. This is a substantial dog, weighing up to 70 pounds, and can be headstrong like a stubborn child. But with positive training, socialization, and inclusion in family activities, the Bull Terrier thrives as a loving companion.

Cairn Terrier

An active and super bright little dog—the breed once followed the skipping Dorothy down the Yellow Brick Road—Cairn Terrier loves to be the center of attention…in real life and movies! They’ve been described as rugged and resourceful and do best as family dogs, provided they have a dog-smart parent to teach them right from wrong. Since they will chase small animals, like squirrels and chipmunks, they must always be on lead when not in a safely fenced area.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Nicknamed the “Comforter Spaniel” by British royalty who favored the dog breed throughout history, today’s Cavalier makes a devoted pet for gentle children and does not require a castle to keep him happy. Cavaliers can adapt to a little exercise or a lot, and the beautiful, silky coat is easily maintained with regular brushing and combing, so no professional grooming is required.

Collie

Even though most kids today haven’t heard of Lassie, the Collieremains the proverbial children’s dog due to the breed’s instinctive protective nature and the intelligence of a ten year old child. Collies like to take walks and run in the backyard, but they adapt to the family’s lifestyle and can be happy in any size home. The rough Collie requires more grooming than the smooth coat, but it’s essentially amounts to just a few minutes a week.

Golden Retriever

The bright, smiling Golden Retriever is a medium-sized sporting dog, weighing in between 55 and 75 pounds, with a long, lustrous coat in various shades of “golden.” This breed has never met a stranger and views all youngsters as his designated playmates. The Golden is always ready for play, whether it’s galloping in the backyard, swimming on the beach, or hiking on a trail.

Labrador Retriever

Lead a Lab to water and it will retrieve all day: balls, sticks, and even children who happen to go for a swim. Whether black, chocolate or yellow, the Lab’s kid-friendly nature has helped make him the most popular dog breed in the United States. Patient and gentle by nature, the Lab excels in a home with respectful children, and craves regular play and exercise to channel his exuberance for life.

Newfoundland

A devoted family companion dog with a sweet and even temperament, the Newfoundland has proved himself reliable around kind, well-behaved children. Although kids should never be allowed to climb on top of or ride on the backs of these gentle giants, Newfies are robust and engaged playmates, and delight in hauling children around in carts.

Poodle (Miniature and Standard)

Although Toy Poodles are too fragile for young kids, Miniature Poodleand Standard Poodle are excellent playmates for respectful children. Well-bred Poodles are active and intelligent, and revel in learning fun tricks or playing endless games of fetch in the yard. An added bonus: Poodles are dogs that don’t shed and might be suitable for people with dog allergies.

Pug

The Pug is as sturdy and big as a Toy breed gets. Weighing in at 14 to 18 pounds, the Pug is a compact, little dog with tons of personality. Most Pugs are easygoing and playful, enjoying the attention of sensible children who recognize that the Pug is no plaything. In cool weather, Pugs are animated and entertaining friends for kids, but tire easier than larger dogs.

Weimaraner

No reason for the kids to be afraid of this ghost, the Weimaraner (called the “grey ghost” because of its distinct color) is an easygoing, tolerant family dog whose above-average intelligence makes him easy to train. Weims are naturally graceful and know how big they are, even if they attempt to snuggle with owners on small chairs on laps. Ancestors were bred to hunt, and today’s Weimaraner likes to be a member of the family pack.