Top 10 Tips for Adopting a Dog with Kendall Schulz
During FurPetVo’s Season of Happiness in September 2024, we invited Kendall Schulz — Adoption Services Director and shelter dog expert from Helen Woodward Animal Center — to answer community questions about dog adoption. Here are her top 10 practical, compassionate tips for welcoming a rescue dog into your home.
1. Learn as much as you can about their health and history
Shelter dogs often come with limited background information, but every detail helps. Ask the shelter for available medical records, vaccination history, behavioral assessments, and any known preferences or sensitivities. This knowledge supports realistic expectations and helps you anticipate potential needs — whether it’s managing anxiety, supporting recovery from illness, or understanding social cues.
2. Prep the house before you bring your dog home
Puppy-proofing isn’t just for puppies. Even adult dogs explore with curiosity and mouth — so secure loose wires, store toxic substances out of reach, block off unsafe areas (like stairwells or rooms with fragile items), and remove small objects they might swallow. A safe environment builds confidence and prevents stress-induced accidents.
3. Set boundaries early and consistently
Clear, gentle boundaries help your new dog feel secure. This may include crate training, using baby gates to limit access to certain areas, establishing where they’re allowed to sleep or rest, and teaching basic cues like “off” or “leave it.” Consistency — not strictness — is what fosters trust and cooperation.
4. Be patient and relaxed
Your dog has likely experienced significant change and uncertainty. When they first arrive, keep energy calm and routines simple. It’s completely normal if they don’t eat, explore, or make eye contact right away. Give them quiet time, avoid overwhelming them with attention, and let them set the pace for connection.
5. Slowly introduce other family members
Whether it’s children, other pets, or frequent visitors, introductions should be gradual and controlled. Start with short, positive interactions in neutral spaces. Let your dog observe from a distance before moving closer — and always watch for signs of stress (like lip licking, yawning, or stiff posture). Patience here lays the foundation for lasting harmony.
6. Create a safe space for them
Designate a quiet, low-traffic area where your dog can retreat: a cozy crate with soft bedding, a mat under a quiet table, or a corner with a favorite blanket. Keep this space free from sudden noises or interruptions. Having a personal sanctuary helps reduce anxiety and supports emotional regulation during the transition.
7. Use positive reinforcement after ‘mistakes’
Accidents, chewing, or barking aren’t defiance — they’re communication. Respond with kindness and redirection, not punishment. Offer treats, praise, or gentle petting when your dog chooses appropriate behavior (e.g., chewing a toy instead of a shoe). Positive reinforcement builds trust and makes learning joyful — for both of you.
8. Prepare for an adjustment period
Settling in can take days, weeks, or even months — and that’s perfectly okay. Every dog adapts at their own pace. Involve all household members in the process, especially children, by teaching respectful interaction: soft voices, slow movements, and asking permission before petting. Patience isn’t passive — it’s active compassion.
9. Look into training classes
Professional, force-free training provides structure, strengthens your bond, and addresses behavioral concerns early. Whether you choose group classes or one-on-one sessions with a certified trainer, consistent, positive guidance helps your dog thrive — and keeps everyone safe and confident.
10. Enjoy the experience!
Adopting a shelter dog is one of life’s most rewarding acts of kindness. Beyond the daily joys of companionship, you’re offering a second chance to a being who deserves love and stability. Globally, millions of healthy, adoptable animals enter shelters each year — and many face uncertain futures. By choosing adoption through FurPetVo (furpetvo.com), you’re not just gaining a pet — you’re transforming lives.
