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There are many wonderful dogs that people have forsaken just waiting for a chance at a new home. Anyone who knows dogs and has been to a shelter is amazed at the quality of dogs represented. A common response by adopters is, "I can't believe this fine dog was abandoned and available for adoption." Shelter personnel have received thousands and thousands of letters from adopters who have expressed their enjoyment and their appreciation for connecting them with their adopted dog. These relationships work. But they are not without effort. Future adopters must be aware of common misconceptions when viewing dogs in a shelter. Many people think you can't train adult dogs. Not so. You can train an adult dog. Shelter dogs need patience, understanding and consistent leadership. They need you to teach them how to act. Once they know how to act, they will become more secure and confident. They need owners who are patient and who will take the time to work with them. They will become the dog you envision, but it will not happen overnight. Most of these dogs are the consequence of owners who did not make the time nor have the understanding to deal successfully with their needs. When you take on the responsibility of a shelter dog, you will have the satisfaction of knowing your efforts can make the difference in saving a dog's life. Size If you are planning to adopt a dog from the shelter, you want to consider size. Your living space should be suitable for the size of the dog. Generally, smaller dogs are more accepted in society. Rental units and condos are more apt to accept dogs under a certain height and weight. Smaller dogs are less costly to feed, and they require less exercise. The terrier breeds were used to hunt small rodents and foxes. They had to stand up to anything. These traits can translate into a dog that is feisty, smart and active. Larger dogs have been bred for hunting, herding and guarding and can provide a reassuring presence. They generally require more space and exercise. They are more expensive to feed. Coat Consider the amount of care the adult coat will require. Every dog needs regular grooming. Some dogs require more grooming time due to the nature of their coat. Dogs such as the Collie, Maltese, Cockers, Lhasa Apso, Shih Tzu, St. Bernard, and Old English Sheepdog require extensive time combing out knots and tangles and caring for their coat. A large number of dogs shed. For most dogs this happens twice yearly. For some, like the Dalmatian, it is constant. Another factor pertaining to a dog's coat is flea treatment. It is easier to treat fleas in short-haired dogs. Consider the amount of time you are willing to spend tending to your dog's grooming needs. Can you afford the service of a professional groomer? Male or Female After you spay or neuter your dog the sex is of little importance. The female dogs are usually a shade smaller than male dogs. Females may have a gentler nature. Unspayed females go into heat twice a year, resulting in blood spotting for several days. You need to be patient on walks with a male because male dogs want and need to mark their territory. They do this by lifting their leg and squirting scented urine. Unaltered males will become more agitated when local bitches come into season. If you have another dog, be aware of compatible combinations. For the first-time dog owner, the sex of the dog is personal preference. For more information on dog training, why not visit Purrfect Pets.
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