Adopting a Dog or Puppy

Adopting a new puppy or dog can be an incredibly rewarding experience, but what can you expect from the entire process?

There are so many dogs in animal shelters all over the world looking for their forever homes, including both puppies and older dogs. These adorable dogs may have come to a rescue centre because they've had a rough start to life or their previous owners may no longer have been able to care for them. One thing's for sure though, rescue dogs just need someone who can offer them plenty of love and understanding. If you think you could offer a rescue dog or puppy a warm and happy home, keep reading and we'll answer all your questions, including how to adopt a dog and where to find a rescue centre.

Find out About Adoption

Adopting a dog

Giving a rescue dog a happy new home can be a rewarding experience for you and a transformation for dog that's waiting for a second chance, but there's a lot to consider and prepare for when adopting a rescue dog.

Should I adopt a dog or a puppy?

Adopting a dog or puppy from a rescue centre can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only will you be supporting the work of a worthwhile charity, but you'll also be giving an unwanted pup a second chance. If you're thinking about adopting a dog, you'll need to decide whether you have time for a bouncy puppy or want to get a calmer, older dog instead. Puppies will demand a lot of devotion such as training, cleaning up, disciplining and will require plenty of attention to give them everything they need. Because of this, it's not a good idea to consider a puppy if you work long hours or if there won't be someone around during the day to care for them. On the other hand, if you adopt an older dog, they will already have an established routine, a degree of training and will generally just be more responsible.

Finding a friend for life

If you're unsure what kind of dog best suits your lifestyle, home and family, your local dog adoption centre can help with that. When you express an interest in rescuing a dog or puppy, the dog rescue will usually give you a questionnaire to fill out to better understand your current circumstances, then they'll be able to recommend a suitable dog for you. They're well versed in finding good matches for both people and pets, so you can rest assured that they can help in finding you a friend for life. Additionally, leading charities can offer you lifelong support, so if you ever have issues with your dog, most rescue centres will be willing to help. If your circumstances ever change, most will welcome their dogs back again too.

Things to consider when adopting a dog

Making the decision to get a new dog is always exciting, but there are many considerations you should also take into account.

• In some sad circumstances, dogs end up in rehoming centres because of neglect or maltreatment. Some may come with a bit of baggage, but staff will always be honest about a dog's needs: be sure you can handle the commitment if you're adopting a dog with a hard history.
• If you live in rented accommodation, be sure to check with your landlord that you can have a dog at the property beforehand.
• If you already have dogs, introducing a rescue animal should be done with care.
• If a dog has been used for breeding or showing, they may have learned certain behaviours that you'll have to help them adapt.
• It can take time and effort to settle a rescue dog into your home and build a bond, so be patient.
• Dogs need plenty of space inside and out. Ensure you have enough room in your living arrangements before rescuing a dog.
• You'll also need enough space in your schedule. Dogs require daily walks and interaction: be sure you have enough time to dedicate to their behavioural, social, and physical needs.
• There are cost implications of adopting a dog; as well as adoption fees, which vary among rehoming centres, you also need to think about the long-term cost implications of having a puppy. Account for pet insurance, potential vet bills and routine treatments, food, grooming, accessories, toys and kennel bills for when you're on holiday.

Dog breeds

At adoption centres, there's a huge variety of dog breeds available, from West Highland Terriers to Husky's, you never know what you're going to get! There does tend to be a lot of more mixed breeds. However, just because a pup doesn't have a pure bloodline, doesn't make them any less of a worthy companion!

How to adopt a dog

When considering how to adopt a dog, the first thing you need to do is to find a dog adoption centre, there are hundreds of options which can be found online or locally. It's a good idea to find one that's relatively local to you as some centres will require you to go for multiple visits to ensure that you're a good match with your chosen pup.

Once you've found your perfect puppy, you'll need to complete an application form which will include information about you, your family and your living circumstances, this will help for them to assess if the dog will match you. After this, you can expect a phone call or email from the adoption centre where they'll set up an appointment for you to finally meet your potential pup. Once you get there, you'll be able to meet and interact with them and usually, you'll also be able to visit and interact with a variety of other dogs to ensure that your choice is the right one.

One thing to be aware of is that some centres like to make a home visit before you officially rescue a dog to ensure it is a suitable environment. If you already have pets, they may also want to see if the dog gets on with them.

Find out more about rehoming centres in your area via Dog's Trust, The Blue Cross, The RSPCA in England and Scotland, Battersea Dogs' and Cats' Home, and the Dublin Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

The first encounter

We're all guilty of letting our heart lead our head, you may see a cute little ball of fluff at your local rescue centre and fall instantly in love, but when you get home you might discover that your personalities are not compatible. Due to this, when you first meet your potential pup, you should go with a list of questions to ask the staff. The following questions are a good starting point:

• Was the dog appropriately socialised as a puppy?
• How old are they?
• Do they have any special needs I need to be aware of?
• How long have they been at the rescue centre?
• Do you have any information on their life before the centre?

What extent of training have they had?

These questions are just a starting point, but prior to your visit you should sit down and compile a list of all the things you need to know. Also, think of any desirable/undesirable qualities for a dog, as this will ensure that the match between your and your adopted dog is right first time will reduce the risk of them having to be returned.

Does it cost money to adopt a dog?

Most dog adoption centres require an adoption fee, which varies between centres. Usually it will help towards the cost of your dog's stay at the rescue centre and the small fee will ensure that they can continue to help other animals. The initial adoption fee will also usually cover your dog's vaccinations, their spay or neutering procedure - if they're old enough - as well as a full vet check-up.

How do I rescue a stray dog?

Before rescuing a stray dog, you should firstly ensure that it is homeless. Ask people in the area if they recognise the dog and post online to see if it's lost. You should also visit a vet to see if the dog has a microchip. Once you've determined the dog is definitely homeless, take it to a vet for a full check-up and a microchip for before settling them into your home.

How long does the process of rescuing a dog take?

The process varies between cases. If you're adopting a scared or nervous dog with a difficult past, you'll need to visit the centre several times to allow them to get used to you. It'll also depend on if the centre requires a home check to take place too, as this will lengthen the process. That's our guide on how to adopt a dog! If you're ready to welcome a new dog to your home, take a look at our guide.

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Big Life Changes to Expect and the Benefits of Having a Dog

There are so many benefits of having a dog. Of course, there's the obvious benefits like extra exercise and a best friend for life, but they can also improve your physical and mental health! All this greatness also comes with some lifestyle changes, however.

It's known far and wide that dogs are man's best friend. Their adorable faces and happy go lucky attitudes fill our lives with such joy, but did you know that there's actually numerous benefits of having a dog? Along with the benefits, you’ll want to find out how having a dog changes your life! From helping you to get fit to meeting new people to getting you up early, your puppy can actually help to improve your health and social life with their presence

Want to find out more? Keep reading to discover the benefits of dogs and the big life changes to expect!

How getting a dog changes your life - top 9 ways to expect 

Nothing compares with the joy of taking a dog into your life – but unless you are prepared for all the changes that are ahead of you, you may well feel as if your life has been turned completely upside down! (Which it kind of has!

So, how does having a dog change your life? Here are top 9 lifestyle changes to expect when your pooch waltzes into your home:

1.    Expect to have early mornings – every day!

While some dogs can grow up to be couch-potatoes who enjoy an occasional long lie-in, most will be up at the crack of dawn raring to start the day. Puppies especially will need to go out very early in the morning so your days of lounging around in bed till midday on a lazy Sunday are well and truly at an end!

2.    Daily walks are a must

No matter what the weather might be, dogs need daily exercise. Even those breeds who have fairly low demands when it comes to the great outdoors, need the change of scenery, enrichment, and the break from what can otherwise be a pretty boring day of just hanging around the house.  And of course, some of our most popular breeds were created to work all day every day – and so for them, getting out and about for a long, daily walk (or two) is a complete necessity. Without this, all kinds of dog behaviour problems can arise – and you will have an unhappy, bored, frustrated canine on your hands. 

3.    You’ll need to invest in waterproofs and wellies

This, of course, means you need a whole new wardrobe! Winter dog walks can be a chilly, wet affair if you are not properly dressed for the climate. Your hitherto stylish wardrobe will change – and your priority will be staying dry and warm as you explore the countryside or local area with your new best friend!

4.    Dog hair…there’s a lot of it

Speaking about your wardrobe… most of your clothes will now come with the added addition of dog hair! As will your carpets, soft furnishings and car. Some breeds shed more than others ( often it is the smooth or short coated dogs who shed the most) and so an investment in a good pet vacuum cleaner (and matching your clothes to your dog’s colour!) is going to be a key part of your new life as a dog owner.

5.    Poo bags in every pocket are a must

This one goes without saying. It is vital (and in most places, a legal requirement) that you pick up after your dog – and you only have to get caught out once and have to try and ‘improvise’, to realise that everywhere you go, you need to have a good supply of poo bags. And always have at least three times more than you need. You can never predict when it could end up being a ‘multi-poo walk’

6.    Nights out will need to be planned ahead for the foreseeable future

Your care-free days of impromptu nights out with your friends are at an end. Just like when you have children, you always need to take your dog into account when you go out. In time, your puppy may be able to be left alone for a few hours – or you might have friends or family who can puppy-sit – but part of your new life will be making sure your dog is looked after and happy when you are not there.

7.  Holiday planning will need to include your pooch’s needs

How getting a dog changes your life includes your holidays. Just like nights out, holidays have to be planned ahead. No more heading off for a spontaneous weekend away or a fortnight in the sun without thinking about your dog. Thankfully there are plenty of places you can go for an idyllic break where your dog can come too – but of course, this will depend on your dog being well-behaved and social (and that takes time and input from you). 

If you want to have a dog-free holiday however, you need to think about who will look after your dog when you are away. Family? Friends? A local boarding kennel? And if it is the latter, the good ones need finding well in advance and booking up early – and giving your dog a couple of trial overnight stays to make sure they are happy and comfortable long before you board a plane!

8. An empty bank account is likely for dog owners

Dogs are expensive. Sometimes eye-wateringly expensive. One animal welfare charity in the UK forecast that the potential lifetime cost of a large dog could be over £30,000 and at least £5,700 (although that was before the recent cost of living rises!). Food, vet bills, dog insurance, puppy equipment and accessories… they all cost money and are often unpredictable.

9.   You will have a full heart

While your bank account might be empty and your clothes covered in dog hair, your home – and your heart – will be full of love. Your dog will always be happy to see you (even if you’d only been gone for five minutes!), will always want to be by your side, and will give you the unconditional love and devotion that you can only ever dream of.

Knowing how getting a dog changes your life is imperative so you know what you’re in for and how to prepare. Though a lot of these may seem daunting, they’re actually great experiences that just require a lot of commitment. 

Now let’s list the main benefits of getting a dog – read on!

13 unexpected benefits to getting a dog

If you’re looking for a pooch to enter your life but you’re not 100% convinced yet, we’ve listed some of the unexpected benefits to getting a dog! Maybe these reasons can help you make that commitment after we listed those big lifestyle changes…

1. Life is better with dogs

Nothing beats a long walk with your four-legged friend on a fresh, spring morning. Or seeing the joy on their faces when you pick up a ball and they know it's playtime in the local park! Even relaxing at home feels better in each other's company.

There's an old saying, which is certainly true, that dogs repay the love you give them ten-fold. Before you rush out and adopt a dog, it's important to think it through very thoroughly. As we mentioned, caring for a dog can be hard work and it's a lifetime commitment as your dog will be relying on you for many years to come.

2. Having a dog can help you stay active, as well as them!

As we mentioned previously, dogs need walking every single day but one of the key benefits of having a dog is that they also significantly increase the amount of exercise you do on a regular basis - and you might not even notice it! While it can be difficult to motivate ourselves to go for a walk alone, when we know our puppy needs exercise, we often don't think twice. All those strolls through the park and adventures in the wood add up.

Even playing games with your dog counts as exercise. You've probably noticed how tired you feel after a long game of 'fetch', even though your dog is the one who's been running around. One of the biggest benefits of dogs is the way they encourage you to be more active, which supports your health as well as theirs.

3. Having a dog is a great way to meet new people

One of the unexpected benefits of dogs is the way they add to your social life. Going to obedience classes, saying 'hello' to other dog walkers when you go to the park with your canine companion - there are dozens of ways in which your dog makes you more sociable.

Your new puppy will get you out and about, trying things you never considered before and introducing you to new experiences. Whether you're going to a new pet shop or exploring a new area to make your dog's daily walk more interesting, you're bound to see new people all the time.

You're unlikely to stop for a chat with a stranger when you're walking by yourself, but we all know how easy it is to talk when our dogs want to make friends. These people can be invaluable as dog walking companions, sounding boards, and the perfect people to off-load when you need to ask “does your puppy…?” or when everything gets a bit much (as, at some point, it probably will.) 

Do, however, fully expect to be known by your dog’s name and not your own (“Max’s mum,” or “Daisy’s dad”!”)

4. Dogs are great for your blood pressure

One of the most fascinating benefits of dogs is their amazing ability to make us feel calm - and that has a brilliant effect on our health. According to Harvard University, studies have shown that dog owners have lower blood pressure which is both due to the increase in exercise and that blood pressure goes down when you merely pet your pooch.

It may surprise you to learn that our blood pressure actually has a big effect on our wellbeing too, so next time you feel stressed, or just need some time to relax, give your dog some TLC - you'll both feel the benefit!

5. Dogs are brilliant companions

One of the most noticeable benefits of owning a dog is that it's almost impossible to feel lonely when your dog is by your side, and for good reason. Most dogs are highly sociable, and they love company, whether it's canine or human.

When your puppy enthusiastically greets you after a day at work, or looks forward to being taken on their favourite walk, you know you always have a friend by your side.

6. Dogs teach us valuable skills

Dog owners know that training requires time, effort and patience - all things that are useful in other aspects of our lives. But that isn't the only thing having a dog teaches us. From enjoying the great outdoors to appreciating the smaller things in life, our dogs really know how to lead by example when it comes to happiness. Dogs and children are also an excellent match as they can teach them a lot about responsibility. Try making your child responsible for a certain aspect of your dog's day - such as feeding them in the evening or brushing them at night (oversee everything yourself, though!) - and you'll be encouraging valuable life skills that can't be learned anywhere else.

7. Additional benefits of having a dog

• Dog owners generally have a stronger immune system, helping them to stay well and spend less time getting over sickness and bugs. In fact, dog owners visit the doctor less often than non-dog owners, and are less likely to be on medication.
• People recover faster from illnesses and even have higher survival rates after a heart attack if they have a dog.
• Children who have a furry friend have fewer days off school due to sickness.
• Children with chronic illnesses often cope better with treatment when they have a canine companion.
• Dogs provide us with a sense of emotional wellbeing thanks to the unconditional love they give, which is why they're also great company and comfort for people who live alone.
• Owning a dog can help people to recover from personal trauma, such as bereavement.
• Dog ownership can help those with mental health problems to recover and feel better.

On top of all these serious benefits of having dogs, they are also fantastic fun. They always make you laugh, they’re there at the end of a hard day, and they’ll almost always be on hand for a reassuring hug when you need it! 

We hope this article on the lifestyle changes and unexpected benefits of getting a dog was helpful and informative! Persuaded to get a new puppy yet? Take a look at our content for handy guides and tips.

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Getting a New Dog: 13 Questions To Choosing the Right Dog

Getting a dog is one of the most exciting decisions you will ever make - and one of the biggest! Like all important decisions, doing your homework before taking on a new pup will make sure that you're choosing the right dog for you and your lifestyle.

It's important to carefully consider what dog you would like before taking one home. It can be very easy to be swayed by big brown puppy dog eyes or a fluffy ball of energy, but remember that a dog is a long-term relationship, so it's best for you and your pet that you're compatible. Your dog will be a part of your life for a long time to come, so it's important to research ahead to know what to expect, and so you can make the right choice when it comes to adopting the right dog.

Adopting the right dog for you is one of the most exciting decisions you will ever make - and one of the biggest! With so many breeds of dogs - and even more crossbreeds – getting the right dog for you is the first start to having the dog of your dreams.

We live in a time where statistically our relationships with our dogs are likely to last longer than our marriages – so we should select our canine companions with as much care as we would a life partner if we want to ensure it is a match made in heaven and not in hell. 

The secret to having the relationship with your dog that you’ve always dreamt about is very similar to choosing a human life partner. You have to enjoy doing the same things and your outlook on life has to be very similar too if you want to avoid conflict. 

Choosing a dog: top 13 questions when adopting a puppy 

1.    How much exercise do you want to give your dog?

Some dogs will be happy with half an hour while others will need upwards of two hours plus training and stimulation every single day for the next 12+ years. The rough guide is if they were bred to work all day (such as the gundog, working, pastoral and terrier groups), they are going to need a lot of exercise!

Adopting the right dogs for you isn’t just about what it looks like and whether it’s suited to your lifestyle, but also whether you have the time and ability to give it the exercise and lifestyle it needs. 

2.    Do you want a dog to match your social tendencies?

Some breeds are more likely to love everyone while others are more likely to be totally disinterested, suspicious or even unfriendly to strangers (whether they be human, canine, feline, sciurine (no, I didn’t know either… it’s squirrels!). 

There are also breeds who love people but not other dogs - or love people and dogs but would not be safe with cats or other small furries. If you have children, other dogs, cats, lots of visitors - or want a dog you can take everywhere - choose your breed based on this.

3.    Are you ever going to leave your dog on their own?

No dog enjoys being left but some breeds - especially those bred as companions - really hate it and will struggle with even the shortest of absences. Others can, with patience, trainingand understanding, learn to tolerate it.

4.    Do you want to train your dog to a high level?

Toy breeds and the smaller companion breeds do take longer to toilet train (mostly because their digestive systems are so tiny and so they can’t ‘hold on’ for long). 

Some dogs are easy to train and will hang on your every word - mostly those whose original job was to work closely in harmony with their owner - while others will look on anything you ask them to do with complete disdain or at best more of a suggestion.

5.    What environment do you live in?

A dog should suit not only your lifestyle but your surroundings too. For example, if you live in a smaller home with little outside space, then a little dog may suit you better. What a dog was originally bred to do is going to impact significantly what they are going to be like to live with. Dogs don’t just like doing the things they’ve been selectively bred to do, they need to do them in order to be happy and healthy.

Do you have close neighbours, or do you hate noise yourself? Some breeds you will hardly know are there while others will tell you (and everyone within earshot) about absolutely everything! All the time!

6.    Are you ready to be covered in hair 24/7?

How much hair are you prepared to put up with in your house and all over your clothes? Some dogs shed hair… a lot, everywhere - and it’s not always the ones you think! Many short-haired breeds shed far more than longer-haired ones.

7.    Are you prepared to groom them as well as yourself?

Depending on the breed, this can be anything from a wipe over with a cloth a couple of times a week to a full groom taking an hour or more every single day. Others will need to be professionally groomed - especially the ones that don’t shed (this can also include crossbreeds such as Cockapoos and other doodles, who can have very challenging coats).

8.    Do you have a specific ‘look’ in mind?

How much predictability do you need in terms of what your dog looks like, how they behave, and their personality? Pure breeds (those that are registered with the Kennel Club) breed ‘true to type’ – in other words have a set size, shape, coat type etc and have the same working ancestry. 

Crossbreeds (including the designer breeds that have interesting names that are an amalgamation of the breeds that have been mixed to produce them) are much more of a voyage of discovery, as they can have all or any (or none) of the characteristics that make up their parents. This can be a blessing or a curse!

9.    Are you ready to be hands-on?

All puppies are adorable but have you spent time with adults of your breed of choice, and having had that experience, do you really like them and can you imagine yourself living with them for the next 12-15 years? 

10.     Do you prefer a lap dog?

Do you want a physically affectionate dog - or one who is more independent? Most dogs bond very closely to their owners but how they express that is very different. Some will want to be beside you (or better still, on you) and have close physical contact every minute of the day while others are more cat-like and will love you just as much but from a slightly aloof distance! Mismatches here can lead to serious conflict – and even sometimes aggression.

11.     Pedigree, crossbreed or mixed breed?

As a first-time dog owner, and through your research of finding the right dog breed for you, perhaps the first thing you should consider is if you'd like a pedigree, crossbreed or mixed breed dog.

With over 200 dog breeds to choose from, you are bound to find the perfect match. Every one of those 200+ breeds of dog has been developed, sometimes over hundreds of years, to be specialists at a certain job.

The advantage of choosing a pedigree dog (also known as a pure breed) is that you have a certain amount of predictability. You can be fairly certain that your four-legged friend will be a certain size, with a certain coat length and texture, character, and energy level, and you'll also have a bit of warning about some potential health conditions that can affect certain breeds.

There's a certain amount of predictability with crossbreeds too. Crossbreeds have parents from two different pure breeds, but it can be trickier to be sure which breed, if either, will determine your dog's looks and personality.

The fun really starts with mixed breeds (otherwise known as mongrels). They come from a largely non-pedigree background, and although you can sometimes see glimpses of recognisable breeds in them, it often comes down to guesswork. One of the many good things about mixed breeds is that they can often be healthier, as they usually have a larger gene pool meaning that hereditary problems are less of an issue.

For more information on what breed of dog may suit you best, try our breed selector tool.

12.     Puppy or adult?

If getting the right dog for you has led you down the path of getting a puppy, you'll find that they're naturally curious and keen to learn, so having time to train them is an absolute must. With your love, care and training you can turn their enthusiastic blank canvas into a masterpiece! Training is great fun but hard work - you'll need to teach them everything from toilet training to walking on the lead. If you have the time and the patience, you'll find their transformation hugely rewarding and all the effort you put in will help build a great bond between you and your puppy.

Another option is to rehome a 'teenage' or adult dog. If you're a first-time dog owner you may find an older dog to be a better fit for your lifestyle.

Most adult dogs will come to you with some training and socialisation. That doesn't mean the job's done, however - there'll still be plenty for you to do, and there's no reason why you can't build a bond that's as strong as with any puppy.

Sadly, some adult dogs up for rehoming haven't always been blessed with a previous loving home, so they may come to you with a bit of 'emotional baggage'. These dogs need extra love, time and patience, but what you give to them will be hugely rewarding for both you and your dog, and result in a lifelong friendship. 

13.     Dog or bitch?

Another thing you need to think about when adopting the right dog is whether you want a male or female. Opinion varies enormously, and ultimately the decision really comes down to personal preference.

Some owners say that bitches are easier to train and tend to be more loving, while others argue that females are more independent and aloof. Males are often said to be more assertive, but neutering can make them a little easier to handle if they start out a bit too bold and over-confident (although this varies with the age of neutering and from one dog to another).

There's no simple answer, and you'll need to remember that a lot of your dog's character and behaviour will simply come down to individual personality and the amount of time that you dedicate to training and socialising with them. Unneutered dogs of both sexes can sometimes be a handful. 

For more information on how neutering affects both males and females, take a look at our neutering FAQs page.

What to look for when choosing a puppy?

• They should be playful and almost certainly up to mischief! Here are a few things to look out for
• Bear in mind that the smallest puppies in the litter can have health problems and that nervous, withdrawn or overly excitable puppies may need more training and socialisation.
• Your puppy should be plump, but not fat, and be free of any lumps or bumps.
• The perfect puppy should also have clean and bright eyes, clean ears and a clean bottom.
• Coats should be soft and clean with no bald or sore patches and the puppy shouldn't be scratching.
• Place your potential pup on the floor. They should be interested in their surroundings straight away. Clap your hands, or make a high-pitched squeak and notice how they respond.
• Deafness can be a problem in some breeds, like Dalmatians and other white breeds, so make sure your puppy reacts when exposed to obvious sudden noises.

Breeder or re-homing organisations?

If your heart's set on a pedigree or cross-bred puppy, then your best bet is to find a reputable breeder. Contact The Kennel Club or a breed-club secretary who may have a list of litters available, or should be able to put you in contact with breeders in your area. Try to choose a breeder who is part of the Kennel Club's assured breeder scheme.

It can be incredibly fulfilling to adopt a dog from an animal shelter and offer them a second chance in life. There are many dogs waiting for a loving forever home. Each dog has its own story and many have lost their first home through no fault of their own, and would love to become a part of yours.

Reputable centres will be very careful about matching the right people with the right dogs - they certainly don't want them being rejected again nor do they want you to take on a dog that's not suitable for you. Staff carefully assess the dogs they take in, and will spend time getting to know you, your family and your lifestyle before they match you with any of their dogs. They'll also be happy to give you advice and answer any questions you might have.

Not surprisingly, there are more adults’ dogs looking for new homes than puppies, and when there are pups looking for adoption, they often get snapped up pretty quickly. If you're determined to rescue a puppy, you may have to take your time contacting several shelters and rescue centres or have to travel further afield to find one that's right for you. Some of the larger organisations to contact include Dogs Trust, The Blue Cross, Battersea Dogs Home, RSPCA, Scottish SPCA or Dublin SPCA.

Whether you buy from a breeder or rehome a rescue dog, you can look forward to a fulfilling future of adventures with your new friend! Are you feeling the pressure from the little people in your life to get a canine companion? Take a look at our article, on whether getting a dog when your kids want one is a food idea, next.

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10 Benefits of Dogs and Children Growing Up Together

Dogs and children can be the best of friends when raised together and can offer a number of benefits to each other, including everything from increased playtime to happier mindsets. Read on to find out more about the advantages of dogs and children growing up together.

Most children love dogs. They're cute, cuddly, and oh-so-friendly. But did you know that growing up with a dog can actually benefit a child's physical and psychological development? Here are some of the many benefits of dogs being in children's lives.

1. Constant companionship

Although childhood isn't always easy, having a pet provides constant companionship through the ups and downs. Dogs can be a great source of comfort for kids - even when they're coming to grips with difficult life lessons. Whenever kids feel sad, angry, or afraid, they can always turn to their pet. Petting and cuddling dogs has also been shown to relieve stress and help people relax.

2. A more active lifestyle

Caring for a dog also encourages a more active lifestyle. Children with dogs exercise eleven minutes a day more than their non-dog owning peers. That might not sound like a lot, but over a week or month, it really adds up. Many dogs require daily walks or runs and plenty of play time. Those adorable puppy eyes they give you are sure to motivate you - even when you're not feeling up to it. Here are a few fun dog exercise ideas that will keep all the family moving.

3. Learning responsibility

Having a pet is a great way to teach responsibility to kids. Making sure that the family dog has food and water gives children a first glimpse of accountability and obligation. Children also learn empathy and compassion by caring for their pet, while developing a higher level of self-esteem by taking care of their pet-owning responsibilities.

4. Health is wealth

Studies have found that babies raised in close contact with a pet get sick less often in their first year of life, meaning fewer visits to the doctor's office. Exposure to pet dander and the microbes that pets carry into the home from the outdoors is suggested to improve babies' developing immune systems. Research has also found that children who grow up with dogs experience a reduced risk of allergies.

5. Learning unconditional love

Kids are the center of attention in any family and they quickly learn that the world revolves around them. This is why it's important to expose them to concepts such as unconditional love or loyalty. What better teacher than our canine companions?

6. Encouragement for speaking

Dogs provide countless opportunities for kids to practice talking. Whether it's calling the dog by their name, asking them to perform simple dog commands such as sit or stay, or just babbling, kids will be eager to get chatting with their new friend.

Dogs can also help children with speech difficulties by keeping them relaxed and entertained. They're often employed as the non-judgmental talking partner, making speech therapy less challenging and more fun for the little ones.

7. Protection and care

We've all heard stories of hero dogs saving babies from intruders, impending disasters or dangerous animals. Dogs are our trusted guardians. And when it comes to children, they truly let their protective nature take over. They'll look after the human "puppies" as if they are their own, never letting their guard down.

8. More time spent outdoors

Whether it's daily walks around the neighbourhood or trips to the park, having a canine companion offers plenty of good reasons to take the whole family out of the house and away from the screens.

9. Bonding with siblings

Parents have a golden opportunity to encourage work team and cooperation between siblings by adding a pet to the family. Dog walking and dog feeding can become shared responsibilities, and when play time comes around, joining in on the fun of having a dog running around in the garden will bring them closer together.

10. Don't worry, be happy!

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits of dogs in early childhood is simply that they make children happy! Interaction with animals has been proven to raise levels of serotonin and dopamine, which are the chemical building blocks of positive feelings. All science aside, playing and interacting with dogs is just plain fun - and it's bound to brighten any child's day. Growing up with a dog can enrich the lives of children in so many ways. Having a dog join your family may be one of the greatest gifts we can give our kids.

Want to find out more about your dog's behaviour? Check out our article on teaching children to care for dogs and cats, next.

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My Kids Want a Dog: Is Getting a Dog a Good Idea!

Nearly every parent at some time or another will have their child begging them to get a dog. Maybe their friends have a dog, or maybe they have fallen in love with one they have seen in films or on social media.

Maybe they are just one of those dog-loving children who crave some canine company but for whatever reason, they just ‘must’ have a dog. But you have to ask yourself if the time is right just now to bring a dog into your family life. 

Is getting a dog a good idea? 10 Question you need to ask yourself

Do I want a dog? 

Realistically you are going to be doing the heavy lifting when it comes to looking after a dog, make sure you really want one. Not just to keep your child happy but really want one for the next 15 years.

Will it be a lifelong commitment?

A healthy dog can live for up to 15 years – this will take your child through their school years, studying for their exams, their first boy or girlfriend, college, university and possibly even their first job.

Is a dog really something my family needs?

Along with the begging comes all the promises… I’ll look after the dog, I’ll walk them, I’ll groom them, I’ll feed them, I’ll do everything. You won’t have to do a thing. But you have to ask yourself if getting a dog at the moment is what your family really needs, and whether it may rock the balance. 

Will this breed be suitable for my children?

Whatever breed your child has their heart set on, think about which breeds traditionally get on well with children. This isn’t just about your dog liking your own family members but also, they need to be happy around your child’s friends and any visitors you have to the house. 

Do I have time for a dog? 

Dogs are 24/7 – they are not just ‘outside school hours’ animals. Even if your child does do everything for their dog when they are not in school, the dog will still need to look after all the rest of the time.

Will I be able to live stress-free? 

They will need to go out to the toilet, they will need to be supervised and played with, and they will need to be considered if you go out for the day – or even when you go shopping. Even with the best intentions, a dog will completely change your life too.

Am I prepared for the training?

Toilet training a puppy does involve not getting much sleep for a few weeks. This isn’t compatible with being awake bright and early to go to school in the morning!

Am I ready for the commitment?

Once they are a bit older, a dog will need walking a couple of times a day. If your child is going to do this it will mean before school and after they come home – every day! In the winter, this often means in the dark. Otherwise, you will be walking the dog most of the time.

Do I understand the extent of the commitment?

Much as your child would prefer not to have to do homework, that is the reality of those school years – and so even when they are not in school, walking and playing with their dog can come into conflict with studies and school work.

Can I afford to look after a dog?

Dogs aren’t just cute bundles of joy that have to be walked and groomed, they are also pets that need a lot of care. They need to have certain foods, especially if they are a breed with a sensitive stomach, or have any health conditions such as pancreatitis in dogs. They also need to be wormed regularly, go for consistent vet checks and also need to have the correct puppy vaccinations. 

If you can answer all those questions positively, then yes, go ahead and start looking for a dog for your child – and for you, but just make sure that dogs for children, ultimately end up being your responsibility, and as long as you are prepared for that odd, then the relationship between you, your dog and your children, will be unbreakable. 

Growing up with a dog brings a whole host of benefits for children – they learn responsibility, have healthier immune systems, have fewer days off school, tend to be fitter and more active, and have someone who will always give them unconditional love through those difficult school and teenage years. Find out more about kids and pets, with our next article.

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