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
How often should your dog visit the veterinarian?
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
Adult Oral Care Small & Mini Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Clinically proven kibble technology to reduce plaque & tartar build-up, specially designed for small & mini dogs
Adult Chicken & Beef Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Beef Entrée in a delicious loaf with complete & balanced nutrition to help keep adult dogs active and healthy
Adult Large Breed Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Puppy Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & Barley Entrée in a delicious loaf with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Related articles
Hill's Puppy Food: Quality Ingredients for Health & Nutrition
Learn about Hill's puppy food and the nutritional benefit & high quality ingredients that it contains for your pup.
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
Choosing the Right Food for Your Adult Dog
Learn about choosing the right dog food to help ensure your adult dog will receive the correct balance of nutrition.
Is Chocolate Bad for My Dog? (& What to Do If They Eat It)
Learn the the dangers of feeding your dog chocolate, which types are most dangerous, and what to do if you discover that they have consumed chocolate.
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.