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Before you adopt · 4 min read
12 questions to ask a rescue before you adopt
The questions that reveal what a dog is really like day to day, from the people who live with them.
Foster carers know their dogs better than anyone. The best enquiries treat the rescue as a source of information, not just a gatekeeper. These questions help you hear the full story.
About everyday life
- What does a normal day look like for this dog in foster? Walk times, naps, meals, play.
- How do they behave when left alone? For how long have they actually been tested?
- How do they react to visitors, the doorbell and the postie?
- What are they like on lead? Pulling, reactivity to other dogs, distractions.
- Are they house-trained and crate-trained?
About compatibility
- Have they met children? What ages, and how did it go?
- Have they been tested with cats or small animals? "Untested" and "fine" are very different answers.
- How do they get along with other dogs? On walks, at home, at the park.
About history and health
- What do you know about their background? Even partial history helps.
- Any medical conditions, medication or dietary needs?
- Is there anything they're scared of? Storms, men in hats, wheelie bins.
About the process
- What support do you offer after adoption? Many rescues will help with training questions and will always take a dog back rather than see them rehomed elsewhere.
A question for yourself
If the honest answers to these questions don't fit your life, it's okay to say so. Choosing not to adopt a dog who'd struggle in your home is a kind decision, for you and for them.
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