Dog and Puppy Training Courses

Before you adopt a dog from a shelter it’s important to ask several questions to help create the best match for you and the dog. FYI: Sometimes a shelter may not know a dog’s history, especially if the dog was brought in as a stray.

Is this dog a purebred or a mix?
If the dog is a mix, do they know what the mix is?
Was the dog a stray or owner release?
If it was owner released, why did the previous owner bring him/her in?
When the dog was brought in did he/she look like it was well cared for?
Do they know how old this dog is?
How long has this dog been at the shelter?
Do they know if this dog gets along with children?
Do they know if this dog gets along with other animals?
Do you know how this dog gets along with strangers?
Have they noticed if the dog doesn’t like men, women or children?

Was this dog housetrained?

Note: The dog may have been housetrained, but because of living in a cage may have gotten in the habit of going potty wherever it likes. Therefore, all it takes sometimes when you bring your dog home is to teach them where you want them to go potty through positive reinforcement ∓ praise.

Has the dog had a vet check?
If not, when will one be provided?
Was there a temperament test done on this dog?
Does the dog exhibit prior training?
Does the dog show an aptitude for training?
How much is this going to cost?
(Don’t forget to include the cost of vet care, food, training and supplies!)