Choosing the Right Rescue/Shelter Dog

There are many people, myself included, who believe that adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue group is the right thing to do.  Simply put, there are great dogs in shelters, and those dogs need good homes.   Of course, there are also canine train wrecks in shelters who are likewise looking for homes, but who might cause problems and trauma for the average dog owner.  Here are some tips to help prospective adopters in finding the diamonds in the rough in those shelters and rescue orgs.

Prep Before You Visit The Shelter

Consider what you’re looking for in a dog.  Overall, a great dog is one who will really like people and wants to be with them (has a high level of sociability), is affectionate, congenial, and bonds easily and strongly.  These types of dogs are the most rewarding and easy to have in your life.  In deciding between a puppy or young dog as compared to an older, more settled dog, you must remember the importance of high-maintenance versus low-maintenance responsibility on your part.

Visit Petfinder.com and research shelters and rescue organizations in your area.  Researching online will also make more options available for places to look for your new pup.  When you have selected a place to visit, call them and ask about their adoption procedures and ask if they will allow you to visit with a prospective new family member outside of the kennel, and if they do not allow it, cross them off of your list.  Another important question to ask is if they do any kind of temperament testing or evaluation.

Visit The Shelter And Look For Friendly Dogs

My advice would be to make a quick first pass through, making note of the dogs that stand out for you.  Then make a second pass and stop and visit each of the dogs you liked on the first round.

A friendly, social dog will wiggle when he sees you coming, and he may press against the kennel to try to get close to you.  His tail will be wagging, not high and tight over his back, but loose and low.
If he barks, his bark is excited and happy, not a deep, aggressive bark that comes from the chest.
Put your hand up to the kennel wire or bars (not inside).  The dog should readily come to you and sniff your hand.  Tell him he’s a good dog and move your hand slowly back and forth several times.  A social dog will follow your hand.

When you have identified the dogs who are friendly and social, take them out of their kennels, one at a time, either outside or to a quiet room if possible.

Once you are alone with the dog, use Cesar Milan’s no-touch, no-talk, no-eye-contact rule:  Ignore the dog, but stand or sit close to him so that he can get used to your presence and scent.  Do this for about 5 minutes if possible.  He should look at you and perhaps lean against you to try to get your attention.  You can get a good gauge of his friendliness and his interest in wanting to be with you, as well as his focus and energy level.

If he seems to want your attention, pet him slowly and gently down his back.  If he appears to enjoy this and leans into you, wanting more contact, he’s a keeper.  If he shakes you off or lunges away from your touch, he’s telling you that he doesn’t like being petted or being around you.  Put him back in the kennel and cross him off your list.
Ask if you can take your favorite choices for a short leash walk.  You will be able to learn about his energy and personality by a short 5-10 minute walk.  Watch for any aggressive behavior toward other people or animals while on the leash.   If you see any, cross this pup off your list.

It is important to notice during this whole visit how the dogs you’ve put on your favorites list behave when other people walk by, especially children.  Avoid a dog that barks too aggressively or lunges at anyone.
Some of the factors to consider during your visit are: the dog’s body language, how he responds to being touched, how rough or gentle he is in play, how excitable he is and how quickly he calms down, his reaction to other dogs, how he responds to being startled, and how he responds when approached when he’s in possession of food or a toy.

After spending time with your few favorite choices and using these tips, you will most certainly have picked the winner.  You can now proceed in the adoption process and bring your new family member home!

Cheri