Many choose to go to a Hill’s partner shelter, other animal shelters or through a rescue organization to find a new pet. This is a wonderful choice because it gives a homeless pet a Second Chance for Love through adoption.
Adult dog or puppy? With a healthy adult dog you’ll have a good idea of the dog’s temperament. A puppy may behave one way in its youth but can change significantly as it grows up. An adult dog’s personality will be more consistent and evident through its interaction with the shelter staff.
Another reason to pick an adult dog over a puppy is, frankly, it’s less work. Puppies need lots of attention to keep them stimulated and to keep them from trouble. An adult dog is not likely to seek as much care from the owner, who might not have the time or energy to keep up with a puppy.
Factors to consider when adopting an adult dog:
- Personality — make certain the dog is a good fit for you. The shelter staff will be able to give you a good idea of the dog’s temperament.
- Interacts with other pets or is better by itself — the shelter staff will inform you if the dog is clingy or laid-back. If you’re bringing a new dog home to a house that already has cats and dogs in it, look for a dog that has lived with other, animals before.
- Spend some time alone with the dog or dogs you want to bring home — ask the shelter staff if there is somewhere quiet where you can interact with the dog.
- Being in a shelter with other dogs can be extremely stressful and frightening, so it may take a few minutes for the dog to calm down and display his true personality.
Health check and vaccines are vital. Most shelters already will have performed a thorough health check, and the dog is likely to be current with all of its vaccines and to be spayed already. Still, give the dog a good once-over from nose to tail to try to spot any health concerns. Also, be sure to ask about the kind of dog food currently being fed and talk to your veterinarian about whether it’s a good choice for keeping your dog healthy.
Tasty Tips
Adoption requirements can vary. Some shelters require that you sign a contract when you’re ready to adopt. Be sure to read this thoroughly. It may have requirements such as not giving the dog as a gift. If you’re planning on giving the dog as a gift, arrange for the prospective owner to visit the shelter and participate in the adoption.
Pick the dog (or dogs) to which you feel the strongest attraction. Good luck and congratulations on the new addition to your family.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet Small & Mini dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Chicken & Potato Recipe dog food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free dry dog food is gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Entrée Variety Pack Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Variety Pack
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day one
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Rice Stew
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetables Entrée Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Hearty Vegetable & Chicken Stew dog food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Oral Care Chicken, Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up
Hill's Science Diet Adult 6+ Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports energy & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, joints, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & barley entree with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small Bites Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Large Breed dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious large bite size for large breed dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight Chicken & Vegetable Entrée Dog Food
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Hill's Science Diet Adult Large Breed Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food
Supports energy level & beautiful coat. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Related articles
Heterochromia in Dogs: Why Your Dog Has Two Different-Colored Eyes
If you've wondered why your dog has two different colored eyes, learn about this condition called heterochromia and if it's tied to any health issues.
Enlarged Prostate in Dogs: Managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Signs of an enlarged prostate in dogs (benign prostatic hyperplasia) aren't easy to spot, so learn more about symptoms, treatments & prevention options.
How to Compare Dog Years to Human Years
Learn how to simply and inexpensively build a DIY dog ramp to help your dog get up & down more easily (great for senior dogs & those with mobility issues).
Why Do Dogs Paws Smell Like Corn Chips?
You're not the only pet parent out there wondering, "Does My Dog Smell Like Corn Chips?" Learn why this is such a common smell your pup might give off.
Washing Your Dog from Ear to Paw: Eight Supplies to Make It Easy
Use this dog washing supply checklist to help you get all the materials needed, making bathing your dog at home a fun and easy experience.
Safe Dog Biscuits to Share with Your Pup
You love your dog, and you want to spoil him with treats all year round without compromising his health. What are the best safe dog biscuits?
Dogs & Table Food: Why to Avoid Feeding Them Scraps
While feeding your dog table food or scraps might seem innocent, it can actually be harmful for them. Learn reasons to avoid feeding scraps to your pup.
Old Dog Syndrome: All About Vestibular Disease in Dogs
Learn about old dog syndrome, also called vestibular disease, which could be a reason your senior pup is having balance or dizziness issues.
Dogs & Holiday Sweets: Which Are Bad & What To Do if a Dog Eats Them
If you suspect that your dog has eaten holiday sweets or candy, find out which common treats might be dangerous for him and what you should do next.
5 Popular Small & Toy Dog Breeds in America
U.S. Dog Breed Spotlight: 5 Popular Small & Toy Dogs
How to Spot & Treat Dog Bug Bites
Dog bitten by pesky insect? Learn how to identify common bug bites on your dog, including ticks, mites, fleas & mosquitoes, and how they can be treated.
Strokes in Dogs: Signs, Risk Factors & What You Should Do
Strokes in Dogs: Signs, Risk Factors & What You Should Do
Why Do Dogs Chase Cars? (& How to Get Them to Stop)
Learn why many dogs are fascinated with chasing cars, why this behavior can be very dangerous, and training tips to help your dog to avoid this behavior.
How to Ride a Bike With Your Dog: Tips for Success
Discover tips for enjoying a bike ride with your dog: How to decide if your dog is a good fit, planning the first ride, items to bring along & safety tips.
Why Do Dogs Sniff Each Other's Butts?
Why do dogs sniff each other's butts? In short: It's their most effective option for a meet and greet. Learn more about this common dog behavior.
Dealing with Dog Digestive Problems
Digestive issues are something that every dog owner will face, but learning how to identify how serious his problem is and what to do about it is key.
Caring For Your Senior Dog's Special Needs
Get helpful advice on basic care requirements to keep your aging dog healthy and happy in his golden years.
My Dog Was Sprayed By A Skunk: What Should I Do?
Learn what to do if your dog gets sprayed by a skunk, including determining where they were sprayed and tips for getting the skunk smell off of your dog.
Steps to Successfully House Train Your Puppy
Learn about the rules for house training your puppy, preventing your puppy from starting any bad habits, how to keep a schedule and rewarding good behavior.
Pulmonary Hypertension in Dogs: What You Need to Know
Learn how to recognize the signs of pulmonary hypertension in dogs and complications that you should take care to avoid if he suffers from this condition.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.