Important questions to ask when meeting a dog at a shelter
Showing up prepared helps you learn the most relevant facts quickly. Focus on medical history, behavior around people and animals, daily routine needs, and any training already done. Clear answers here reduce surprises after adoption.
Ask about:
- Medical history: vaccinations, spay/neuter status, ongoing conditions, and last vet visit.
- Behavior profile: reactions to children, strangers, other dogs, and cats.
- Energy and enrichment needs: typical activity levels, play style, and chew tendencies.
- Training background: housetraining, crate experience, basic commands, and known triggers.
- History and time in care: reason for surrender or stray history and how long in the shelter or foster.
- Ideal home: whether they recommend a quiet household, experienced owner, or specific management strategies.
Also request to meet the dog in a quiet setting, and, if you have other pets or children, arrange a supervised introduction. Ask whether the shelter offers post-adoption support or trial periods and clarify return policies. These practical details set expectations and help ensure a good match.