You’re finally ready to take that step. You’ve done all your research, you have everything you need, you’ve dog-proofed your house, and you’ve decided on the exact variety you want. You’re ready for a Doodle dog! You’ve decided that instead of going right to a breeder, you want to adopt a rescued dog. There’s just one problem. How do you find one?
You can’t guarantee that you can find one at the shelter, and trying to find a rescue in your area can be difficult even with the internet. Have no fear, future Doodle parent. We’ve made it easier for you to find a Doodle for adoption near you and have put together some tips that are helpful when adopting any type of dog. If you’re ready to find your dream Doodle, let’s get started.
How To Find An Adoptable Doodle
It might not seem like it, but there are lots of Doodles in need of a good home. Doodles, especially Labradoodles and Golden Doodles, are extremely popular right now. That means that, unfortunately, sometimes these dogs are matched with owners who didn’t know what they were getting into. Reputable breeders will always take their dogs back, but sadly, not every Doodle comes from a reputable breeder.
When a dog ends up in the shelter, especially kill shelters, breed-specific rescues will swoop in and remove the dog. The dog will then stay with a foster family until a forever home can be found for it. Rescues also accept owner surrenders from people who, through no fault of their own, can no longer care for their dog.
Search tools like Petfinder, PetSmart Charities, and Adopt A Pet are great resources when looking for a Doodle to adopt. They allow you to enter your location and the traits you’re looking for in an adoptable dog. Then they provide you with a list of dogs near you that fit that description. This makes it easier for you to find the exact Doodle type that you are looking for.
Petfinder, PetSmart Charities, and Adopt A Pet are listing services for adoptable dogs. They are not involved at all in the adoption process. If you find the perfect Doodle, you’ll submit your application, and correspondence will all go to the rescue group responsible for that particular dog. Each rescue group has its own application process and qualifications. Always review these before applying to adopt a dog.
Doodle Rescue Collective is a volunteer group that works with other rescues, veterinarians, and foster families to rescue and rehome Goldendoodles and Labradoodles. Doodles available through DRC are also visible on Petfinder. Doodle Rescue Collective has very strict rules regarding who may apply for one of their rescues, so be sure to read all of their requirements carefully before applying.
What To Know When Adopting A Dog
Giving a dog a second chance through adoption is a wonderful thing. There are definitely some things you need to be aware of before proceeding. Being informed helps make the adoption process easier and helps you understand what you’re getting into.
Many rescue groups have extremely strict guidelines to follow. If you don’t meet all of their requirements, you may not even be contacted back about the dog you want. Before applying, make sure you meet all of the rescue group’s criteria so you don’t get your heart set on an unattainable dog.
Have everything ready to go. There is a home visit requirement for many rescue groups. Make sure everything is ready for a dog immediately. If they say you should have a 4-foot fence, make sure you have that fence before the home visit, or you could disqualify yourself.
Remember that when you adopt a dog, especially an older dog, you don’t know their whole story. The rescue group may not even know much. It can take you a little longer to form a bond with a rescued dog. This is fine! Don’t think that the placement has failed if the Doodle is not immediately your best friend. They are very likely a trauma survivor, and you will need to work to build trust.
Get your rescued dog into training as soon as possible. They likely have some bad habits acquired in their old home. Help your new Doodle settle in by setting boundaries and expectations early. You absolutely can teach an old dog new tricks and the bond that proper training and positive reinforcement will help build is well worth the work.
Since the origins of an adopted dog are unknown, be prepared for any health issues that may pop up. The foster family or rescue may be aware of some of these, so make sure you ask about the dog’s medical history since coming into their care. Your adopted Doodle will have seen a vet in order to be placed, so be sure to have all of these records sent to your vet of choice.
When To Contact A Breeder
Many Doodle breeders are a part of wider Doodle rescue efforts. A breeder may be able to get you in contact with a rescue group that can help you find the right dog. You can also contact a breeder to find out if they have any failed placements. Reputable breeders will take their dogs back, no matter how old they are, and they may have older puppies or adults that they are hoping to place in a good home.
If you don’t feel like you can handle a dog with a murky past, then it may be worth it to adopt an older dog from a breeder. Do your research first to make sure you aren’t dealing with a backyard breeder or potential puppy mill. If you aren’t certain how to find a reputable breeder, you can learn more about what to look for here.
Once you’ve found your new doodle don’t forget that training! Book a virtual training session to start learning the basics and get your Doodle on track to becoming a well-mannered and balanced dog!