{"id":8557,"date":"2025-02-19T06:00:46","date_gmt":"2025-02-19T11:00:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/?p=8557"},"modified":"2026-02-04T10:29:26","modified_gmt":"2026-02-04T15:29:26","slug":"how-to-get-a-dog","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/how-to-get-a-dog\/","title":{"rendered":"What Shelters or Rescues Help You Find Dogs?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>How to Get a Dog: A Comprehensive Guide. Adding a dog to your family is an exciting and life-changing decision. Dogs bring joy, companionship, and love, but they also require time, effort, and responsibility. Before taking this step, it\u2019s crucial to understand the process of getting a dog and ensure you\u2019re ready for the commitment. This guide walks you through every stage, from deciding if you\u2019re ready to bringing your furry friend home and helping them thrive.<\/p>\n<p><!--more--><\/p>\n<h3><strong>What Shelters or Rescues Help You Find Dogs?<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"284\" data-end=\"589\">If you\u2019re planning to <strong data-start=\"306\" data-end=\"321\">adopt a dog<\/strong>, shelters and rescue organizations can be some of your best resources for finding your new companion. These groups work every day to care for homeless, surrendered, and stray dogs and help them find loving homes through adoption.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"1040\"><strong>Animal Shelters<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"591\" data-end=\"1040\">Local animal shelters \u2014 often run by municipalities or humane societies \u2014 take in dogs that need care and a second chance. Many of these dogs are <strong data-start=\"759\" data-end=\"818\">already vaccinated, spayed\/neutered, and health\u2011checked<\/strong>, making adoption more straightforward. Shelters typically list available dogs online and at their facilities, and many allow you to meet pups in person to see if there\u2019s a good match.<\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"1042\" data-end=\"1495\"><strong>Rescue Organizations<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1042\" data-end=\"1495\">Rescues are usually nonprofit groups that operate either from a central facility or through foster homes. These organizations often focus on specific types of dogs \u2014 such as certain breeds, sizes, or age groups \u2014 and work closely with shelters to pull dogs who need homes. Because many rescues rely on volunteers and fosters, dogs may be seen by appointment or at special adoption events.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1042\" data-end=\"1495\"><em data-start=\"195\" data-end=\"484\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-7515 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Service-Pro-Tips-e1736622469982.png\" alt=\"Adopt a dog\" width=\"120\" height=\"120\" \/>\u201cWe believe every dog deserves a loving home, and part of our mission at PetWorks is to help pet parents connect with the right resources. Whether that\u2019s a local shelter, a trusted rescue, or adoption listings online, so they can find their perfect companion with confidence and care. We&#8217;re a pet care services booking platform. But every day, it seems we get dozens of pet parents and rescue orgs asking us for help with dog adoptions and rescues. And so we always do our best to point our customers in the right direction, with proper guidance.\u201d<\/em> &#8211; <strong>Kevin Kinyon, Co\u2011Founder of PetWorks<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3 data-start=\"1497\" data-end=\"1835\"><strong>Online Adoption Platforms<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p data-start=\"1497\" data-end=\"1835\">Websites like Petfinder and other directories list adoptable dogs from shelters and rescues across the country. These platforms let you <strong data-start=\"1665\" data-end=\"1709\">search by breed, size, age, and location<\/strong> so you can explore a wide range of dogs without visiting multiple facilities in person.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1837\" data-end=\"2055\">Visiting local shelters in person and checking adoption listings online can significantly increase your chances of finding the right dog \u2014 and giving a deserving pup a loving home.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>But Let&#8217;s Go Back To The Beginning&#8230;<\/strong><\/h3>\n<h3><strong>Step 1: Decide If You\u2019re Ready for a Dog<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Owning a dog is a long-term commitment that can last 10 to 15 years or more. Evaluate whether you have the time to walk, feed, train, and care for a dog daily. Financially, dogs come with expenses like food, veterinary care, grooming, and supplies. Additionally, assess your lifestyle: Are you active enough for a high-energy dog? Do you travel frequently? Ensure you\u2019re prepared to adjust your schedule to meet the needs of a pet.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-6834 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243.png\" alt=\"how to get a dog\" width=\"704\" height=\"131\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243.png 704w, https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243-300x56.png 300w, https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/petworks-logo-article-e1734545691243-640x119.png 640w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 704px) 100vw, 704px\" \/><\/p>\n<p data-pm-slice=\"1 3 []\"><span style=\"color: #000080;\"><em><strong>Are you finding this article useful?<\/strong> <\/em>Would you like 100% free access to more articles like these, and free access to <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"color: #000080; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/request_quote\">over 5,000 vetted pet care service professionals<\/a><\/span> throughout the United States? <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"color: #000080; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/join\">Sign up here <\/a><\/span>for a free PetWorks account, and we&#8217;ll email you a\u00a0 10% discount code, good towards your first pet care services booking on PetWorks!<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><strong>Step 2: Research Dog Breeds and Types<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Canines come in all shapes, sizes, and temperaments. Spend time researching breeds or consider mixed-breed dogs to find one that matches your lifestyle. For instance, active individuals might love a Labrador Retriever, while those seeking a low-energy companion could consider a Basset Hound. Remember, every breed has unique needs and potential health concerns, so research carefully. If you\u2019re adopting, meet the dog to learn about its personality and behavior.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Step 3: Decide Where to Get Your Dog<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Once you\u2019ve decided on the type of dog, determine where to get them. Here are three main options:<\/p>\n<p><strong>Shelters and Rescues<\/strong><br \/>\nAdopting from a shelter gives homeless dogs a second chance. Most shelter dogs are already spayed\/neutered and vaccinated, making the process easier.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Reputable Breeders<\/strong><br \/>\nIf you\u2019re interested in a specific breed, work with a <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aspca.org\/about-us\/aspca-policy-and-position-statements\/position-statement-criteria-responsible-breeding\">responsible breeder<\/a><\/span> who prioritizes the health and well-being of their pups. Avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Other Sources<\/strong><br \/>\nYou might find dogs through friends, family, or online platforms, but be cautious and ensure the pooch&#8217;s history and health are well-documented.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Step 4: Prepare Your Home for a Dog<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Before bringing a dog home, make sure your space is ready. Purchase essentials like a leash, collar, food, water bowls, a bed, toys, and grooming tools. Puppy-proof your home by securing electrical cords, removing toxic plants, and keeping small items out of reach. Set up a comfortable area where your canine can feel safe and relaxed, especially during the adjustment period.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Step 5: The Adoption or Purchase Process<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>If you\u2019re adopting, visit the shelter or <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/nmdr.org\/our-dogs\/available-dogs\/\">dog rescue<\/a><\/span> to meet the pups and ask questions about their history, temperament, and medical needs. If you\u2019re buying from a breeder, request to see the puppy\u2019s parents and living conditions to ensure ethical practices. Complete any required paperwork and confirm vaccinations, microchipping, and spaying\/neutering before taking your dog home.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Step 6: Bring Your Dog Home<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The first few days with a new pup are crucial for building trust and helping them adjust. Start with a calm introduction to their new environment. Establish a routine for feeding, walks, and playtime to provide structure and comfort. If you have other pets or children, introduce them gradually and supervise interactions to prevent stress. Patience is key as your puppy learns to navigate their new surroundings.<\/p>\n<h3><strong><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-7032\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Petworks-Pet-Care-Hedgehog.png\" alt=\"Petworks Pet Care Hedgehog\" width=\"108\" height=\"69\" \/>Step 7: Care, Training, and Socialization<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Taking care of your dog involves regular vet visits, vaccinations, and preventive care like flea and tick treatment. Begin basic <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/hire\/dog-trainer\">dog training<\/a><\/span> immediately to teach commands like sit, stay, and come. Positive reinforcement works best, as it strengthens your bond and encourages good behavior. Socializing your dog with other doggy friends and people is equally important to ensure they\u2019re well-adjusted and confident.<\/p>\n<p>Getting a dog is a rewarding journey, but it requires dedication and preparation. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition for your new pet and create a loving, happy home. A dog\u2019s loyalty and unconditional love make the effort worthwhile, providing you with a lifetime of memories and companionship.<\/p>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col text-sm pb-25\">\n<article class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [&amp;:has([data-writing-block])&gt;*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" tabindex=\"-1\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:73164799-3a2d-4e07-ab52-5f3d632ecacb-15\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-32\" data-scroll-anchor=\"true\" data-turn=\"assistant\">\n<div class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:--spacing(4)] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(6)] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:--spacing(16)] px-(--thread-content-margin)\">\n<div class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\" tabindex=\"-1\">\n<div class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col grow\">\n<div class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&amp;]:mt-1\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"42a79602-59fa-44e3-89d9-a611cc97c481\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-mini\">\n<div class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden first:pt-[1px]\">\n<div class=\"streaming-animation markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full wrap-break-word light markdown-new-styling\">\n<p data-start=\"132\" data-end=\"480\"><strong data-start=\"132\" data-end=\"196\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/christa-chadwick-b6261829\/\">Christa Chadwick, Vice President of Shelter Services, ASPCA<\/a><\/span>:<\/strong><br data-start=\"196\" data-end=\"199\" \/><em data-start=\"199\" data-end=\"480\">&#8220;Many dogs have so much love to give \ud83d\udc36, though they are sometimes overlooked because of their size, breed, age, or special needs. Shelter staff can make adoption easier by introducing you to dogs who fit your lifestyle and sharing what they know about each dog\u2019s ideal home \ud83c\udfe1.&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"482\" data-end=\"671\"><strong data-start=\"482\" data-end=\"529\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.aspca.org\/about-us\/aspca-policy-and-position-statements\/position-statement-responsibilities-animal-shelters\">ASPCA guidance on shelter responsibilities<\/a><\/span>:<\/strong><br data-start=\"529\" data-end=\"532\" \/><em data-start=\"532\" data-end=\"671\">&#8220;Shelters should clearly communicate how they help stray pets return to their owners \ud83d\udc3e and provide guidance on reclaiming lost pets \ud83d\udce8.&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<p data-start=\"673\" data-end=\"842\"><strong data-start=\"673\" data-end=\"707\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/vetmed.vt.edu\/news\/2023\/adopting-from-animal-shelters.html\">Animal welfare expert insight<\/a><\/span>:<\/strong><br data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"710\" \/><em data-start=\"710\" data-end=\"842\">&#8220;By adopting a shelter dog \u2764\ufe0f, you\u2019re giving a deserving animal a second chance and supporting the welfare of animals in need \ud83c\udf1f.&#8221;<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"pointer-events-none h-px w-px absolute bottom-0\" aria-hidden=\"true\" data-edge=\"true\"><\/div>\n<!--[if lt IE 9]><script>document.createElement('audio');<\/script><![endif]-->\n<audio class=\"wp-audio-shortcode\" id=\"audio-8557-1\" preload=\"none\" style=\"width: 100%;\" controls=\"controls\"><source type=\"audio\/mpeg\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a?_=1\" \/><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a\">https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/09\/169-Old-Redding-Rd-22.m4a<\/a><\/audio>\n<h3 data-start=\"7576\" data-end=\"7805\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/infos\/about\">About PetWorks<\/a><\/span><\/h3>\n<p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-7722\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/Dr-Marty-Goldstein-Natures-Blend-Petworks-Nutrition.png\" alt=\"Dr Marty Goldstein Nature's Blend - Petworks Nutrition\" width=\"111\" height=\"In 2021, Dr. &lt;span style=\" \/><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/dr-marty-goldstein-of-petworks\/\">Marty Goldstein DVM<\/a> joined the pet care platform PetWorks as an advisor in its <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/hire\/animal-nutritionist\">Animal Nutrition<\/a><\/span> care division. Dr Marty Nature&#8217;s Blend is on a mission to help your pets live their healthiest lives possible. Dr. Marty\u2019s pet nutrition expertise and guidance has helped PetWorks evolve and become the preeminent animal and pet nutrition consultation service for pet parents in North America.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-8658\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/William-Bishop-Jr-Petworks-Pet-Nutrition.png\" alt=\"Bill Bishop Blue Buffalo Pet Nutrition\" width=\"96\" height=\"99\" \/>In 2022, <span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><a style=\"text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/blue-buffalo-dog-food\/\">Blue Buffalo<\/a><\/span> Founder Bill Bishop Jr. joined PetWorks as Senior Advisor in our Animal Nutrition Care Division. Bill brings his extensive expertise in pet food innovation and business leadership. His guidance helps PetWorks enhance our pet nutrition service offerings, helping to ensure that pet parents throughout the world receive trusted, science-backed nutritional support for their dogs, cats, and animals.<\/p>\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">About The Author<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"markdown prose w-full break-words dark:prose-invert light\">\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"><em><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-10642 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Kevin-Kinyon-2025.jpeg\" alt=\"Kevin Kinyon PetWorks Pet Care Service Professional\" width=\"91\" height=\"108\" \/><\/em>PetWorks<\/span><\/a> Co-Founder <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/kinyonkevin\/\"><span style=\"text-decoration: underline;\">Kevin Kinyon<\/span><\/a> is a life-long animal lover who works tirelessly to improve the lives of pets and their parents. Human and animal qualities he values most are integrity, humor, and empathy. Kevin lives with two cats, and is well-acquainted with strange cat behavior!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>How to Get a Dog: A Comprehensive Guide. Adding a dog to your family is an exciting and life-changing decision. Dogs bring joy, companionship, and love, but they also require time, effort, and responsibility. Before taking this step, it\u2019s crucial to understand the process of getting a dog and ensure you\u2019re ready for the commitment. &hellip; <\/p>\n<p class=\"link-more\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.petworks.com\/articles\/how-to-get-a-dog\/\" class=\"more-link\">Read More<span class=\"screen-reader-text\"> &#8220;What Shelters or Rescues Help You Find Dogs?&#8221;<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8567,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[132],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-8557","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dog-training-advice"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v25.3.1 (Yoast SEO v25.3.1) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>What Shelters or Rescues Help You Find Dogs?<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Adding a dog to your family is an exciting and life-changing decision. 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