7 Reasons to Adopt a Shelter Dog
Did you know that in the United States, approximately 6.3 million companion animals enter the shelter system each year (ASPCA)? Of those, around 3.1 million are dogs, and unfortunately, many of these loving animals face euthanasia due to overcrowded shelters. But there is hope—each adoption helps save a life and makes room for another pet in need. If you're considering adding a dog to your family, here are eight reasons why adoption is a wonderful choice.
1. You Actually Do Know What You’re Getting
When you adopt a shelter dog, whether they’re a puppy or an adult, shelter staff and volunteers can give you valuable insight into their behavior, temperament, and preferences. If the dog is in foster care, the foster family has lived with them and can provide even more detailed information. This helps ensure you find the right fit for your lifestyle. Breed isn’t always a perfect indicator of a dog’s personality, and shelter dogs come with the added benefit of having been observed and known by caregivers.
2. Raising a Puppy Is a Lot of Work—Adopt an Adult Dog Instead
Puppies are adorable, but raising them is no small task. From teething to housetraining, they require constant attention. By adopting an adult dog from a shelter, you can skip the exhausting puppy phase. Many adult dogs are already housetrained, calmer, and just as eager to be your loyal companion. Plus, puppies tend to be adopted quickly, while adult dogs often wait longer for homes—making them a wonderful choice.
3. Adoption Is More Affordable
The costs of purchasing a dog from a breeder can add up quickly, ranging from hundreds to even thousands of dollars. On top of that, you’ll need to cover spay/neuter surgeries, vaccines, and veterinary care. Adopting from a shelter is much more affordable—typically ranging in the low hundreds—and includes vaccinations, spay/neuter surgery, and sometimes even microchipping. Adopting not only saves a life but also saves you money.
4. Healthier and Happier Dogs
Shelter dogs often come from mixed breed backgrounds, which can make them less prone to certain genetic health issues. While purebred dogs from breeders are sometimes more susceptible to breed-specific conditions, shelter dogs benefit from a more diverse genetic pool, potentially leading to healthier lives. Adopting a dog means you can help them live their best, healthiest life with proper care and love.
5. Adoption Reduces the Demand for Puppy Mills
Many puppies sold in pet stores or online come from puppy mills, where dogs are bred under poor, inhumane conditions. By choosing adoption, you’re not only giving a dog a second chance but also helping reduce the demand for these cruel operations.
6. Shelter Dogs Have So Much Love to Give
Dogs that come from shelters often have a special bond with their adopters. They know they’ve been given a second chance, and they show it through loyalty and affection. These dogs may have experienced tough times, but their gratitude and joy when they find their forever home are heartwarming. Every shelter dog has the potential to become an amazing, loving companion.
7. When You Adopt, You Save Two Lives
Adopting from a shelter doesn’t just save the life of the dog you bring home. It also makes space for another dog in need of to take it's place, giving them a chance at finding a forever home too. Adoption is a life-saving act—both for the dog you adopt and for the one who will take their place in the shelter.
The Joy of Adoption
At Tedi’s, we believe that every dog deserves a good life—and that includes a loving home and healthy, wholesome food. By choosing to adopt, you’re giving a shelter dog a second chance at life.
Ready to welcome a shelter dog into your family? Start by visiting your local shelter—and don’t forget to explore our thoughtfully made products that help you care for your new best friend in every way.
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