I'm looking to adopt a dog
Congratulations on deciding to move forward with adding a furry family member!
To start, we’d like to share some friendly reminders:
- Owning a dog is a lifetime commitment. You are about to adopt an animal that has a lifespan of 15-18 years. They are a living, breathing companion who relies on your love. You should be prepared to have them by your side for every life moment or lifestyle change.
- Owning a dog is a lot of work. It can be fun work - but it can also be very hard, exhausting and sometimes even frustrating. Be prepared for the many ups and downs, especially if you are seeking a puppy. It will all be worth it!
- Owning a dog costs money. It’s important to make sure that owning a pet is part of your budget and to prepare for unexpected costs.
FIRST AND FOREMOST: DO YOUR RESEARCH
It’s very important to do a lot of research about owning a dog before choosing to adopt one. All dogs are different and have a unique set of needs. For example, if you’re more of a ‘Stay at Home and Watch Netflix’ type, a working breed (ie German Shepard) may not be for you, but there are many other types of dogs who would love to binge watch on that sofa with you!
Never base your choice on looks. All dogs are cute - but not all of them would be happy living with you. Not sure where to start? Consider taking a quiz online to see what breeds may work well in your family! Like this one here, here or here.
Is the dog a mixed breed and you know the mix? Research both breeds. It's good to get to know both breeds so you can have a rough idea of what your mix may actually be like.
Is it a rescue dog and they don’t know the mix? Be sure to ask your rescue many questions about that dog as an individual and be honest with them about what you are looking for in a companion.
CHOOSING A DOG RESCUE
There are many wonderful dogs waiting for their forever homes via rescues or shelters!
The following websites are classified websites used by many rescues and shelters. They’re a great place to start your search! You can search by breed, size, age and location and learn more about the rescues on their profile:
Some rescues will use social media as their main platform to share available dogs. Follow rescues you admire to be in the loop!
It’s important to make sure that you are working with a reputable and responsible rescue, as unfortunately not all rescues are created equal. Here is a great article to help you look out for red flags:
CBC: How to Find a Great Rescue and Match for your Family
CHOOSING A BREEDER
If you choose to adopt a dog from a breeder, it is very important to make sure that you are adopting a puppy from a reputable and responsible breeder. Unfortunately there are many breeders out there that are in it for the wrong reasons and do not care about the well being of their animals.
How do you know if your dog is coming from a responsible and reputable breeder? Read this great resource from the Humane Society before you search so you are aware what to watch out for and download this PDF that includes a checklist.
We also recommend using the Canadian Kennel Club breeder search. Breeders registered with the CKC adhere to a code of ethics and therefore are more likely to be a reputable and responsible breeder. Please note: It is important to use the above resource as a guide even when choosing a CKC breeder.