Deciding to add a dog to your family is a big decision that should not be taken lightly. Choosing to adopt a shelter dog is a great place to begin, but be aware that rescue organizations a likely put you through the ringer before being allowed to leave with any dog. Since 1990 they have been notoriously critical of families that come to adopt, citing reasons like no children, no yard, no job, and so on as reasons to deny your application. Families that are intent on adopting a dog should push through the process and fight back if critiqued unfairly. The love of a shelter dog is unlike any other. Just like any other big decision in life, it needs to be thought through completely. There are lots of things that need to be taken into consideration before taking the life-long plunge into dog ownership.

Children in the Family

You should consider the breed of dog based on how old your children are and the rescue agency will definitely take this to heart. Thousands of applications are denied every year because they don’t believe children should be around puppies. Whether you agree with this or not, that’s just how it goes with adoption agencies. If you are set on adopting a dog, it will take a lot of convincing to get around having small children.

Toy breeds should definitely be avoided if your kids are less than seven years old. These dogs have serious needs and need constant supervision. They can break bones and get hurt very, very easily. Large dogs are much more tolerant but still, all children need to be supervised when around dogs without exception.

Cost

Dogs are expensive. Most dogs live for between 12 and 15 years and that is a lot of food, toys, and medical care. If you are not prepared to take off work for your dog, spend money on your dog, and provide the type of life for him that you would any other member of your family, then you are not ready to own a dog.

Time

Dogs take up a lot of time. They need love, attention, and exercise. Unlike you or your children, they won’t just go out for a walk or play a video game; they need you to do it with them. If you are not willing to devote hours of your day to spending time with them, you are not ready for the responsibility of a dog.

Shelter dogs may need extra time, extra love, and extra medical attention. You are taking on someone else’s responsibility and have to pick up the pieces of what they left behind. It’s the noblest of causes but will require some effort and patience on your part. The rewards, however, are life-long and well worth it