So you've made the decision – you want a dog. But where should you find the perfect, long-awaited companion who will become a major part of your life? How about a dog shelter?

When choosing a dog, many people have a list of requirements regarding size, personality, appearance, or activity level. Once you know what kind of dog suits you, you might start looking into breeders or adoption centers.

Too often, shelters are overlooked due to common misconceptions – like the belief that dogs end up there because something is "wrong" with them. That’s not true. Many shelter dogs have been unfairly labeled as aggressive, anxious, or problematic due to a lack of proper guidance in their previous homes. Every dog’s behavior has an explanation and can be improved with love, patience, and consistency.

Conditions for Adopting a Dog

Regardless of whether the dog will live inside your home or outside, proper care is essential. The dog’s space must protect them from weather extremes, provide daylight, and allow them to move freely.

You must also consider your household – the personalities of your family members, potential allergies, and other pets living in your home.

Keep in mind that animals have rights, and we have legal responsibilities toward them. The Animal Protection Act outlines these. On Greypet.com, you’ll find blog posts that explain your obligations, including how long a dog can legally be tethered or what to do in an emergency.

The Five Freedoms of animal welfare must be respected:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst
2. Freedom from discomfort
3. Freedom from pain, injury, or disease
4. Freedom from fear and distress
5. Freedom to express normal behavior

Meeting these needs ensures your dog stays physically and mentally healthy.

Where to Look for Dogs to Adopt

Once you’ve considered your lifestyle and preferences, it’s time to decide where to get your dog.

You can buy a puppy from a reputable breeder – it should come with a health record, microchip or tattoo, and pedigree documentation.

But you can also adopt a dog from a shelter. Our website features a database of pets waiting for loving homes. Shelter dogs are no less lovable – they may even appreciate your love more. If you're unsure, read our article “Dog from a Shelter? YES!”

Adoption Process

Every adoption center has its own process, but the steps are generally similar and not overly complicated.

To adopt from a shelter:

• You must be 18 years old.
• Fill out an adoption questionnaire.
• Participate in an interview.
• Sign the adoption agreement.
• You may be registered in the national animal owner database.

Dogs ready for adoption are usually vaccinated, microchipped, and may already be neutered/spayed. Rabies vaccinations are mandatory annually – failure to comply can lead to fines or imprisonment.

Ask for a veterinary summary – this provides info about the dog’s medical history and procedures they’ve undergone. You should also receive a health booklet.

Before Your Dog Comes Home

Prepare a few essentials for your new family member:

1. A calm, cozy sleeping spot where your dog can relax and feel safe
2. Food and water bowls, and the right kind of dog food
3. A collar, leash, and some treats for walks
4. Toys or chew items for entertainment

Some shelters provide an adoption starter kit – ask about it! Certain organizations even offer these as a reward for adopters with big hearts.