- 1). Research different dog breeds. According to the Partnership for Animal Welfare (PAW), before considering adopting a dog you should find out about a breed's known behavioral problems, size and weight, life expectancy and hair length.
- 2). Call your local animal shelter to set up an appointment to meet dogs that are available for adoption.
- 3). Check online for rescue organizations in your area. According to the American Kennel Club, these organizations don't charge as much in adoption fees as breeders do, but note that adoption guidelines are stricter, since many of these dogs have been abandoned.
- 4). Consider how much room you have in your home before adopting a dog, as well as the costs of dog ownership. The American Kennel Club states that owning and caring for a dog can be quite expensive.
- 5). Check to see how well the breed in which you're interested interacts with children and other pets. Some dog breeds do not get along with other breeds and/or do not mix well with children.
- 6). Visit a variety of dogs at animal shelters and rescue organizations. Petscentral.com recommends petting and walking a dog you're interested in before adopting to see if you and the dog will be a good match, that is, if you will suit each other's personality and lifestyle.
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