Q&A for How to Adopt a Dog

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How long does it take for a rescue dog to adjust to its owner?

Christina Shusterich
Dog Behavior Expert
Christina Shusterich is a Dog Behavior Expert, cited a Top Dog Trainer by the APDT and the owner of NY Clever K9 Inc. With over 20 years of experience, Christina has created her Total Harmony Dog Transformation® System to successfully treat behavior problems in dogs. She specializes in providing expert advice nationally and internationally on dog obedience, health, behavior problems, aggression, separation anxiety, and depression. She has received her certification as a Canine Behavior Counselor, Dog Trainer and Canine Behavior Specialist through the Animal Behavior Center of New York. She is a registered American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen Evaluator.

Christina Shusterich

Dog Behavior Expert

Expert Answer

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What if I'm in an apartment without the space for a dog?

Community Answer

Don't get a dog if you cannot provide basic needs such as adequate shelter. You may be able to get a small dog that doesn't need a lot of space, but avoid getting a big dog that will feel cramped and uncomfortable in an apartment - that's not fair to the dog.

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Question

Can I rescue a dog tomorrow?

Community Answer

Generally speaking, you can start the adoption process quickly. Whether you can bring a dog home the same day that you start the adoption process is determined by the individual shelter. Some may require checking references, a home visit, or other processes that may make it difficult to complete the adoption process in a single day.

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How do I train a young dog that is not housebroken?

Community Answer

As soon as you take the dog into your house, place it on newspaper and say, "toilet" or something easy to understand. Using a newspaper makes it easier, as it will know where to go for a pee. Also, if you want it to sleep in a certain area, place a bed or blankets and carry it there every night.

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Where would it be best to bring a new puppy to play?

Community Answer

Go to places where you know other dogs are friendly and vaccinated, such as your friends' houses. At dog parks, adult dogs could not be vaccinated, and may be hostile.

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Question

How much does it cost to adopt a dog?

Community Answer

Adoption fees are set by the shelter or rescue with whom you work. Generally speaking, fees may run anywhere from $75 to $300, depending upon the breed, the age of the dog, what vet work the shelter includes with adoption, and whether they offer extras like training programs. Contact your local shelter to find out the cost of adoption.

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Question

Where is the "go to" place to adopt a dog aside from the shelter?

Community Answer

I suggest a website called Petfinder.com. You can search for shelter and rescue dogs (and other pets) by sex, size, age and more.

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Question

How much time before I adopt the dog do I need to start preparing?

Community Answer

You should probably start preparing a month or two ahead of time.

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Question

What is on the adoption form I'll be asked to sgn?

Community Answer

This varies depending on the shelter you adopt your dog from. Most shelters have a section on their website where you can print out the application form. Typically, the forms ask questions about who lives in your household, your age, previous and current pets, your contact information, the condition/size of your house and yard, etc.

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Question

What is the best breed of dog for a family?

Community Answer

This depends. What do you want your dog to do? Do you want it to be protective? Playful? Friendly? Talk with someone professional who has studied dog breeds about what you want your dog to do. Generally, labs and golden retrievers are the best for a regular family environment, but they still require training just like any dog would.

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What is the best family dog to get?

Community Answer

Dogs are individuals and have their own personalities, but in general, retriever breeds are friendly and good with children.

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