Puppy adoptions are a little more complicated than buying a dog from a good breeder. But a dog or puppy rescue adoption can be very rewarding, because you know that you have given an unfortunate dog, a loving home.
Tiny puppies for adoption, like a Bichon Frise, tug at our heartstrings – but there are some things you should know before you adopt a puppy.
Shelters and rescue groups typically observe puppies before putting them up for adoption. That’s because some of the dogs come from puppy mills. Others come from terrible conditions that can affect a dog’s temperament for life.
That’s why it’s so terribly important to check out the reputation of the shelter or group that you would like to use for your puppy adoption.
Trustworthy groups frequently require an adoption application and agreement as well as a reasonable fee that covers care and upkeep for the duration of the dog’s stay.
Rescue Puppy Adoptions
The first thing you’ll need to do is find a rescue or adoption group, to work with, for your puppy adoption.
Or, if you prefer, decide on a specific dog breed first. Then you can choose a rescue shelter that deals with that specific dog breed.
Keep in mind that not all puppies are suitable for all living situations. For example, if you live in a small space you probably don’t want a Weimaraner, lab or lab mix, due to size constraints.
Bichon Frise dogs, on the other hand, adapt well to apartments and smaller homes, and they do not require long walks or runs every day.
Take your time and ask questions about different dog breeds and what they need. The people who run good puppy adoption organizations have a lot of knowledge and experience, and they can help you find just the right new housemate.
Click here to learn more about adopting a Bichon Frise puppy.
Responsible Puppy Adoptions – Check Out Your Puppy Carefully
When you’ve made a choice about a breed, carefully observe any potential puppies before you adopt. Some things to keep in mind when you are selecting your new dog:
- Health – Make sure a puppy shows no signs of illness, like coughing or red, runny eyes.
- Shiny Coat – A healthy pup also has a healthy, shiny coat.
- Personality – Watch for personality traits. Some young dogs have lots of energy and bounce, while others are shy. A shy dog requires more help socializing but may be a better choice for your home if you want a calmer pup. If a dog is aggressive, it might not fit in with your family, especially if you have children or older people in the home.
- Interest and attention – Finally watch for a pup that shows interest in YOU. Dogs become long-term family members and relationship building starts at day one. Pups who let you hold them as you would cradle a baby, who climb into your lap willingly and who wants to sniff all of you are the best options.
Remember to visit your potential adoptee at different times of the day, to see how his behavior changes, depending on who is around and what’s happening in the environment.
Do not rush your choice. Your relationship with your new Bichon Frise dog will last for years.
Prepare your Home for Your Puppy
Before finalizing puppy adoptions, you will have to prepare a little bit for your new friend.
Make sure that you have these things on hand:
- healthy puppy chow
- sturdy puppy bowls
- a collar
- leash for leash training and walks
- an identifying tag
- grooming brushes
- a crate if you plan on crate training
Here’s a list of things you will need to have, before you bring your new dog home.
And don’t forget the toys! Interacting with your pup helps acclimate her to her new home.
There’s bound to be a period of adjustment for both of you. But given time, consistency and love, you and your adopted puppy will be getting along great!
Tracey says
Looking to give a bichon frise a good home