Guide to Adopting a Dog:
What to Consider Before Bringing Your New Friend Home
Adopting a dog comes with significant responsibilities and thoughtful planning. While you can find plenty of information online, in books, or from professionals, we have gathered key points to consider when choosing your new dog based on our own and our community’s real-life experiences.
How to Choose the Right Size Dog
When choosing the size of the dog to adopt, it’s important to consider your lifestyle and the dog’s energy levels and daily needs. Larger dogs often require more exercise and space, so they might be a great fit if you have a big yard and an active routine. Smaller dogs may need less space but can still be energetic and require daily walks and playtime. Think realistically about how much time and energy you can dedicate to exercising and caring for your dog daily.
One important thing to know is that dogs generally don’t enjoy flying, even if they travel in the cabin. Traveling by plane tends to be stressful for them, regardless of size, so choosing a dog solely because it’s “cabin-size” for travel convenience isn’t always the best idea. Instead, match the dog’s needs and temperament with your lifestyle and environment to ensure a happy and healthy relationship.
Puppy or Adult Dog: Which One Should You Adopt?
Choosing between a puppy and an adult dog depends on your lifestyle, but adult dogs have some clear advantages. Puppies need lots of time, patience, and training. Adult dogs are often already house-trained, calmer, and have known personalities, so you can better predict their behavior. Many adult dogs wait long in shelters for a family, and giving them a home can make a significant difference. Adults are usually less destructive and settle in more quickly.
Embrace Mixed-Breed and Street Dogs
Unfortunately, in Türkiye, certain dog breeds become trendy occasionally through media, celebrities, and popular culture, leading to increased demand, breeding, and sales. As a result, many purebred dogs are abandoned in the streets or shelters after being adopted on impulse or just because they are in fashion. However, due to uncontrolled breeding, mixed-breed and street dogs make up a much larger population. Volunteers and animal lovers recognize that these dogs are just as loyal, loving, and intelligent as many purebreds, yet they often receive less attention and demand. That’s why efforts to rescue and care for mixed-breed and street dogs are just as important.
Due to their diverse genetics, mixed-breed and street dogs often benefit from stronger health and longer lifespans. They tend to be adaptable and resilient and have unique, loving personalities. Rather than focusing on breed, prioritize temperament and compatibility. These dogs frequently develop strong bonds and show great loyalty.
Adopting a Disabled Dog
Adopting a disabled dog requires additional consideration but can be very fulfilling. These dogs often face difficulties finding homes and greatly benefit from patient owners. Disabled dogs may need special medical care, equipment, or lifestyle changes, so ensure you are ready emotionally, physically, and financially to provide ongoing support. With the proper care, many disabled dogs live happy, meaningful lives and become deeply connected companions.
Consider the Dog’s Daily Routine
Dogs thrive on routine—regular feeding, walks, playtime, and rest help them feel secure and comfortable. It’s essential to assess whether you or someone else can consistently meet your dog’s physical and emotional needs. Steady care and attention are necessary for their well-being.
Financial & Time Commitment
Owning a dog involves long-term financial and time commitments. Be prepared for expenses such as vaccines, health checks, transport, and quarantine—especially if adopted internationally. Also, consider possible costs for trainers, vets, or behaviorists. Think about future life changes like moving, traveling, or job shifts, and have the plan to ensure your dog stays well cared for.
Interaction with Other Pets
Consider how a new dog will integrate into your household if you already have pets. Introduce them slowly in neutral spaces and observe their reactions. Gradual introductions help reduce stress and prevent conflicts. Ensure each pet has space, resources, and attention to minimize rivalry. Over time, many pets learn to live together peacefully and may even become close friends.
What to Do During Vacations
Before traveling or going on vacation, plan where your dog will stay. While some believe that adopting a small “cabin-size” dog makes travel easier, dogs generally do not enjoy flying even in the cabin, and plane trips can be stressful regardless of size. Instead of choosing a dog only for travel convenience, focus on matching your dog’s needs with your lifestyle.
Fortunately, professional dog hotels and care services exist in many regions, like Europe, the UK, and Canada. Platforms like www.rover.com and community networks (WhatsApp groups, etc.) offer various options for dog care, ranging from boarding facilities to caregivers who host dogs in their homes or even in-home care.
Psychological Readiness & Sensitivity
Every dog has a history and personality; some may need extra patience and understanding as they adjust to a new home. It’s important to consider how you manage challenges like frustration or setbacks and to be ready to build a lasting, trusting bond. Being prepared to support your dog emotionally throughout their life is key to a happy and healthy relationship.
Support System & Emergency Plan
Having a reliable support network is valuable when caring for a dog. Consider who can help if you’re unavailable due to travel, illness, or unexpected situations. Planning for medical needs or behavioral changes ensures your dog receives consistent care and attention.
