Adopting a dog is a wonderful decision – for you and for the animal. Every year, thousands of dogs in shelters wait for a new home. But an adoption needs to be well-prepared. Unlike buying from a breeder, you're getting a dog with a past – sometimes with quirks, always with character. In this guide, you'll learn what you need to know before, during, and after the adoption.
Why Adopt?
The numbers: Approximately 3.3 million dogs enter U.S. shelters every year, according to the ASPCA. Most of these dogs are not "problem dogs" – they simply lost their home because their owner's circumstances changed.
Good reasons to adopt:
- You save a life. Every adopted dog makes room for another animal in need.
- Lower costs. Shelter dogs come with an adoption fee (€150–400) instead of a breeder price (€1,000–3,000).
- Often already trained. Many shelter dogs are house-trained, know basic commands, and are socialized.
- Known personality. The shelter can tell you exactly what the dog is like – with a puppy from a breeder, you won't know for months.
- Health check included. Shelter dogs are typically vaccinated, microchipped, dewormed, and spayed or neutered.
Before Adoption: An Honest Self-Assessment
Before heading to the shelter, answer these questions honestly:
Your Living Situation
- Do you have enough time? A dog needs at least 2–3 hours of attention daily.
- Does your landlord allow pets? Get written permission first.
- Who will take care of the dog when you're on vacation or if you get sick?
- Are all family members on board?
- Do you have other pets? Compatibility needs to be tested.
Your Budget
| Expense | Monthly | Annually |
|---|---|---|
| Food | €40–80 | €480–960 |
| Vet (preventive care) | €15–30 | €180–360 |
| Dog license fee | €5–15 | €50–180 |
| Liability insurance | €4–7 | €50–80 |
| Accessories & treats | €10–20 | €120–240 |
| Total | €74–152 | €880–1,820 |
On top of that, there are one-time costs for the initial supplies. A complete list: Puppy Checklist: The Ultimate Essentials Guide.
The Adoption Process
Step 1: Finding the Right Shelter
Visit shelters near you or browse online platforms:
- Local shelters – Personal contact, dogs can be visited in person
- Rescue organizations – Often dogs in foster homes (better assessment of everyday behavior)
- International rescue – Dogs from abroad through reputable organizations
Step 2: Finding the Right Dog
Tip: Let them guide you. Don't go to the shelter with a fixed picture in your mind. The staff know their dogs well and can tell you which dog fits your lifestyle.
What to look for:
- Size and energy level matching your living situation
- Compatibility with children, cats, or other dogs
- Possible history (fear, trauma, health conditions)
- Age – older dogs deserve a chance too and are often calmer
Step 3: Getting to Know Each Other
Most shelters offer:
- Multiple visits – Come more than once
- Walk-throughs – Get to know the dog on a walk
- Foster-to-adopt – Some shelters offer a trial period
Step 4: Adoption Contract and Handover
When it's a match, you sign an adoption contract. It typically includes:
- Adoption fee (€150–400, depending on the shelter and dog)
- Responsibilities as an owner (proper care, veterinary treatment)
- Spay/neuter requirement (if not already done)
- Return clause (the dog goes back to the shelter if problems arise, not to third parties)
- Home check (the shelter may visit your home)
Step 5: The First Day at Home
The first day is exciting – for you and the dog. Here's how to do it right:
- Bring the dog home quietly, no party, no visitors
- Show them their bed, food bowl, and water bowl
- Let them explore the home at their own pace
- Take a short walk around the new neighborhood
- Don't expect too much – the dog needs time
The Adjustment Period: The 3-3-3 Rule
Animal trainers use the 3-3-3 rule for adopted dogs:
The First 3 Days
- The dog is overwhelmed and stressed
- Low appetite, lots of sleeping, and shyness are normal
- No big activities, no visitors, no training classes
The First 3 Weeks
- The dog starts to understand the routine
- Personality traits begin to show
- Boundaries will be tested – stay consistent but patient
- Gradually introduce new situations
The First 3 Months
- The dog feels at home
- Trust is built and the true personality emerges
- Now you can start with training, obedience classes, and new activities
Special Considerations for International Rescue Dogs
Dogs from international rescue organizations (e.g., from Southern or Eastern Europe, the Middle East, or Asia) sometimes come with unique challenges:
- Diseases: Tick-borne illnesses (Leishmaniasis, Ehrlichiosis, Babesiosis) – have a blood test done
- Trauma: Some dogs have never been inside a home, climbed stairs, or ridden in a car
- Socialization: Street dogs are often not used to leashes, collars, or confined spaces
- Flight risk: Take extra precautions in the first weeks – double leash, GPS tracker, escape-proof harness
Important: Only adopt through reputable organizations that offer an adoption contract, test dogs for tick-borne diseases, and provide post-adoption support.
Checklist: Complete Before Adoption
- Get permission from your landlord
- Family meeting: Everyone needs to be on board
- Check your budget (monthly costs + initial supplies)
- Get the starter kit (bed, bowls, leash, food)
- Find a vet nearby
- Research training classes
- Arrange vacation care
- Prepare dog license registration – How to Register and License Your Dog
- Order a dog tag – with name and phone number
- Get dog liability insurance
Why a Dog Tag Is Important from Day One
Adopted dogs have a higher risk of running away during the first few weeks. The new environment, unfamiliar sounds, and a bond that hasn't formed yet – all of this can cause the dog to bolt at the first opportunity.
A dog tag with your phone number is the fastest connection between the finder and you. The microchip is the second layer of safety – but the tag works instantly. What belongs on the tag: What Goes on a Dog Tag?.
Your Adopted Dog Deserves the Best
At Bark'n'Tag, you'll find over 50 designs for your new family member's first dog tag – made from stainless steel with personalized double-sided laser engraving. Order the tag before the adoption so it's ready on day one.
Discover all designs: Shop Now
Source: Information on shelter adoptions based on recommendations from the ASPCA and Petfinder.