Questions to Ask Yourself Before Adopting a Dog

A puppy's adorable expression and pleading eyes may make you want to take it home right away. However, you should think very carefully before adopting one.

According to Leah Schmitz, who works for the German Animal Welfare Association, people should ask themselves several questions before adopting a dog.

1. Do you spend more time at home or away from home?

2. How much space does your home have, and what kind of area do you live in?

3. Do you want a quiet, even-tempered dog or an active one?

4. Are there other animals in your home? If so, will the dog get along well with them?

Once you adopt a dog, you need to train it so that it can adapt harmoniously to its surroundings, including other people and animals. This series of steps is known as socialization. If you are considering adopting an abandoned dog from an animal shelter, you should visit the shelter several times and spend time with the dog you hope to adopt, such as by taking it for walks. Before completing the formal adoption process, you should also consider fostering the dog temporarily to see whether it can adjust well to your household.

On the day you finally adopt the dog, it is best for all family members to go together to welcome it. Animal behavior expert Zania Katzurke said, "The dog will perceive the people who came to welcome it as its pack." You should also purchase all necessary supplies before bringing the dog home.

After bringing the dog home, give it a quiet space where it can spend time adjusting on its own. If you are worried about whether the dog will adapt well, consider seeking help from a professional.