Adopting a dog from a rescue or shelter helps animals in need find good homes and prevent unethical dog breeding. Not to mention, adoption fees are generally much more affordable than buying a new puppy.

However, bringing a dog home from a shelter or rescue isn’t without its challenges. Shelter dogs can have trouble adjusting to a new home, so it’s important to know what to expect and how you can help your new family member settle in.

Here’s what to know when adopting a shelter or rescue dog, including some of our top tips for a healthy and happy pup.

The Shelter Environment Can Create Behavioral Challenges

Most dogs need support when adjusting to new environments. This is true whether you buy a puppy or rescue an adult dog. When adopting a dog, they may have come from a shelter environment that encouraged certain behavioral problems.

For example, some shelters coddle dogs, which can create an animal that is overly dependent on you, creating issues with separation anxiety. Shelters may also give dogs too much mental and physical stimulation, which can cause hyperactive or hypervigilant dogs with no “off” switch.

It’s also possible that the shelter or rescue knows about certain issues with a dog but won’t disclose them in an effort to encourage adoption, or will give future owners unrealistic goals for their new dogs. 

How to Give Your Rescued Dog Their Best Life

So, what can you do when you have your heart set on adoption but are concerned about potential challenges with your new pet?

• Know before you adopt. Get as much information about the animal as you can before adopting. In many cases, shelters may have limited information about a dog, especially if it was found as a stray. However, don’t this stop you from asking plenty of questions, especially of shelter staff who interact with the dog every day.

• Make a plan. Have a plan before your dog comes home. Set their crate up away from people to help prevent separation anxiety, know what activities will or won’t be allowed, and what their routine will be. The more prepared you are, the easier your dog’s transition will be.

• Have help available. Working with a professional dog trainer can help you help your dog settle in and reduce their anxiety and potential behavioral issues when adjusting to life at your house. A dog trainer can help you teach your dog rules, set boundaries, and properly socialize with other people and animals. 

• Be patient. Remember that rescue dogs can take more time to adjust to their new life, so it’s essential to be patient. A dog trainer can help you understand your dog’s behavior so you can adjust yours accordingly and help them settle into their new environment with ease.

Schedule Your Training Consultation With Us

Nova Pack Dog Training understands that every dog is different. We have experience working with rescue and shelter dogs of all breeds and with all types of behavioral challenges, whether your dog is fearful, aggressive, or anxious. Schedule a training consultation with us today to help your pup live their best life!