What to Know Before Adopting a Dog

If you are considering adding a new dog to your family, adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue group is an incredible way to provide a loving home for an animal in need.

But before you fill out the paperwork and pick out toys and treats for your new pet, there are important considerations to take into account—especially for first-time dog parents.

“Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. They have different energy levels and grooming needs,” says Anne McLaughlin of the Humane Society of Missouri. “Think about your lifestyle and the personality of your ideal dog. Consider your current family situation and who will be interacting with and caring for the dog.”

If you’re just getting started with the dog adoption process, consult this guide for advice on how to adopt a dog and the steps you should take when deciding which pet is the right fit for your family.

How to adopt a dog

If you are considering dog adoption, there are several organizations available to explore. These include animal shelters and rescue groups. Shelters may be operated by a city or county, or they may be privately owned and operated. Rescue groups may have a physical shelter location, or they might operate through a network of dog foster families.

As you begin your search for a new dog, visit shelters and attend adoption events in your community to get familiar with the adoption process and begin learning about different dogs that are available for adoption.

Before you make a final decision, it’s important to research the shelter or rescue group you’re considering to make sure you understand its policies and procedures for adoptions. “Each shelter has different fees and requirements for adopting a pet,” says Rena F. Lafaille, director of administration, shelter and veterinary services, at the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

When it comes to selecting the perfect canine companion, here are some important things to consider and discuss before making a decision:

Make sure you’re ready for pet parenthood. Adopting a dog is a lifelong commitment and it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. “The first step is to make sure everyone in the household is ready for the responsibility,” says Lafaille. “When adopting, you are making a commitment to care for an animal for the rest of their lives—that could mean 10 to 15 years for dogs. As you go through lifestyle changes such as moves, the birth of children and new jobs, your animal will remain a permanent part of your life.”

Identify the type of dog you want to adopt. In order to narrow down your dog adoption choices and find the right fit, it’s important to research the type of dog best for your family’s lifestyle.

This starts by thinking about whether you want to adopt a puppy or an adult dog, and spending time researching the personality traits and energy levels of different dog breeds. Before you start your search, you should decide on the qualities you’re looking for in your new dog.

“Think about your lifestyle and the personality of your ideal dog,” says McLaughlin. “Are you looking for an adventure buddy to go on hikes and camping trips? Or would you rather have a couch potato to snuggle while you stream your favorite movies and shows?”

Consider your home environment. Your home environment and living situation may dictate the type of dog you decide to adopt. If you rent an apartment, you may need to get approval from your landlord before bringing a dog home. If you live in a city house or apartment that is small on space or has limited outdoor access, a smaller or less active dog may be an ideal fit over a larger or more active breed.

“Talk to your shelter or rescue’s staff about the qualities you are looking for in a dog,” says Lafaille. “It is extremely important to ask a lot of questions to the adoption staff about the dog to better understand their personality and behavior.”

How much does it cost to adopt a dog?

Most shelters and rescue groups charge dog adoption fees, and those fees typically range from $50 to $500, depending on your location and the type of dog you are looking to adopt. Puppies tend to have higher adoption fees than older, adult dogs.

“Every adoption center has different fees,” says Lafaille. “Some adoption centers provide microchipping and spay or neuter [services] in the initial adoption costs as well as other benefits such as collars and I.D. tags. It’s a good idea to read about or ask about your chosen shelter or rescues fees and benefits before adopting so you’ll be prepared.”

Before adopting a dog, it’s imperative that you and your family are prepared for the ongoing costs associated with pet parenthood.

“Routine veterinary care like vaccinations, flea and tick treatments, and heartworm preventatives can add up quickly,” says McLaughlin. She also cautions that “Illness and injury could arise unexpectedly,” making it a good idea for pet parents to consider purchasing pet insurance or setting aside an emergency fund for their pet in case of unexpected expenses.

Other expenses such as grooming, pet sitting, and the ongoing costs of buying food, treats and toys should also be considered before adopting a dog.

Dog adoption tips for first-time dog pet parents

If you’ve never been a dog parent before, don’t stress—prepping for a new canine companion takes research, time and energy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Here are some tips to help first-time dog pet parents who are considering dog adoption:

• Ask lots of questions. If you’re new to pet parenthood, you won’t have all the answers right off the bat. During the adoption process, make sure to use the staff and volunteers as resources. “Adoption counselors and shelter staff are a wealth of knowledge, and they’re happy to answer any questions about the dogs in their care,” says McLaughlin. “They may have information…about their personalities or habits before coming to the shelter.”
• Pet-proof your home. Before welcoming your new dog into your home, make sure to identify and address any potential safety hazards such as steep stairs or toxic plants or foods left out on counters or within reach of the dog. “Examine your home and think about ‘puppy-proofing’ by securing cords and picking up items that may be dangerous should a new dog decide to chew away,” says McLaughlin.
• Establish a routine. Quickly establishing a regular routine helps dogs acclimate to their new surroundings and adjust to your schedule and lifestyle. “Dogs are creatures of habit, and getting them on a schedule helps them understand what you want from them and when,” says McLaughlin.
• Consider training classes. If you need some additional help teaching your new dog appropriate behaviors at home, consider investing in dog training classes. “If your pet needs to learn some basic manners and skills, you might benefit most from group obedience classes,” says Lafaille. “Group classes are also ideal for young puppies who need socialization.”

Not Quite Ready? Here's How to Move Forward With Confidence

It's completely normal to reach the end of your research and realize you still have a few things to sort out before bringing a dog home — and that's actually a sign you're approaching adoption the right way. Taking the time to get it right benefits both you and the dog you'll eventually share a life with.

Bridge the Gap With Fostering or Volunteering

If the timing isn't perfect yet, fostering or volunteering with a local adoption group is one of the most meaningful ways to spend that waiting period. Both paths give you real, hands-on experience that no amount of reading can fully replicate.

Fostering means temporarily welcoming a dog into your home — sometimes for a few weeks, sometimes longer — while the dog waits for a permanent family. You'll learn firsthand what daily dog care actually looks like: feeding schedules, exercise needs, crate training, and the emotional rhythm of life with a dog. Many foster pet parents discover exactly which size, energy level, or temperament is the right fit for their household before they ever commit to adoption.

Volunteering with a shelter or rescue group lets you spend time with dogs in a more structured setting — walking dogs, helping with socialization, or assisting at adoption events. It's a lower-commitment starting point if you're not yet in a position to bring a dog into your home, even temporarily.

Both options also strengthen your adoption application when you're ready. Shelters and rescue groups consistently look favorably on applicants who have demonstrated hands-on experience with dogs.

Find Adoptable Dogs and Local Groups Near You

When you're ready to search for adoptable dogs or connect with rescue organizations in your area, Petco Love is a great place to start. You can browse adoptable pets and find local adoption partners close to home.

A Quick Self-Check Before You Adopt

Use this checklist to gauge your readiness. If you can check every box, you're in a strong position to move forward:

• Stable living situation — Your home allows dogs, and your lease or HOA rules are confirmed in writing.
• Budget in place — You've accounted for food, routine veterinary visits, preventive care, supplies, and unexpected medical costs.
• Time and routine — You can commit to daily exercise, feeding, training, and companionship — dogs are social animals and do not thrive when left alone for extended periods.
• Household agreement — Every person in the home is on board and understands the responsibilities involved.
• Veterinarian identified — You've researched local veterinary practices and know where you'll take your dog for that all-important first wellness visit.
• Supplies ready — Food and water bowls, a crate or ex pen, collar with ID, lead, and a starter supply of nutritious dog food are on hand before your dog arrives home.

If a few boxes are still unchecked, that's useful information — not a reason to feel discouraged. Use the gap as a focused action list, and revisit when those items are resolved.

The Bottom Line

Adopting a dog is one of the most rewarding decisions a pet parent can make — and the preparation you put in now directly shapes how smooth that first week, first month, and first year will be. Whether you foster, volunteer, or simply keep refining your plan, every step you take brings you closer to a successful adoption and a strong bond with your future dog. When you're ready, your veterinarian is your best partner for guidance on nutrition, preventive care, and keeping your new companion thriving for years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the dog adoption process typically take? The timeline varies by organization. Some shelters complete same-day adoptions, while rescue groups that use foster networks may require a home visit, reference checks and an approval period that can stretch one to two weeks. Ask your chosen shelter or rescue about its specific steps before you fall in love with a particular dog.

What does a dog adoption fee usually include? Adoption fees generally range from $50 to $500 depending on your location, the organization and the dog's age. Many shelters bundle microchipping, spay or neuter services, an initial veterinary exam, a collar and an ID tag into that fee — but policies differ, so confirm exactly what is covered before you sign. Ask the adoption counselor for a written breakdown so there are no surprises at pickup.

How much does it cost to care for a dog each year beyond the adoption fee? Ongoing costs add up quickly. Routine veterinary care — vaccinations, flea and tick preventatives and heartworm prevention — is a recurring annual expense. Add food, treats, grooming, toys, a crate or ex pen, leashes and pet sitting, and first-year costs for a new dog can easily reach $1,000–$3,000 or more depending on size and health needs. Unexpected illness or injury can push costs significantly higher, which is why many adoption counselors recommend pet insurance or a dedicated emergency fund.

Is a puppy or an adult dog a better fit for a first-time pet parent? Neither is universally better — it depends on your lifestyle. Puppies require intensive time investment for house-training, socialization and basic cue work, and they go through a chewing phase that demands a thoroughly pet-proofed home. Adult dogs often arrive with some training already in place, and shelter staff can give you a clearer picture of their established personality. If your schedule is demanding, an adult dog may be the more realistic choice. Talk honestly with adoption staff about your daily routine so they can help match you with the right dog.

How do I help a newly adopted dog adjust to my home? Consistency is the single most powerful tool. Set a predictable schedule for meals, bathroom breaks, exercise and sleep from day one — dogs are creatures of habit and a routine helps them feel secure in an unfamiliar environment. Limit the dog's access to the whole house at first, using a crate or ex pen to create a safe, manageable space. Expect a settling-in period of several weeks; some dogs take up to three months to fully relax and show their true personality. If anxiety or behavioral concerns persist beyond that window, consult your veterinarian or a Petco-certified trainer.

What should I do if I'm not quite ready to adopt but still want to help? Consider fostering. Foster families provide temporary homes for dogs awaiting adoption, giving those dogs critical socialization and a break from shelter stress — and giving you a low-commitment way to learn whether dog parenthood fits your life. Contact local shelters or rescue groups to ask about their foster programs, or visit Petco Love to find organizations in your area.

This article was created with assistance from AI tools and reviewed for accuracy by Petco's content team.