I take adding another dog to our pack, whether it is a foster dog, or permanent pack member very seriously. I wish more people would do the same. So this week I want to introduce you to our newest pack member, Rory. I also wanted to explain the process we use to choose a dog for our pack and why. To watch the extended version of this blog post, check out the video here!
When adding a new dog to your family it’s important to consider your current family make up. Things like, do you have children or other animals and what are their personalities. Are you an active family? Are your other dogs energetic or more laid back? How balanced is your current pack?
These are all questions I ask myself and I encourage others to ask when looking for a dog. The success of your new dog’s life depends on you to be honest with what your current lifestyle looks like and then choose a dog to best fit that lifestyle.
We are so excited to share that Bubbles (now Nelly) was adopted February 16th, 2020. We loved having Bubbles around for the energy and joy she brought us, but it was never our intention to keep her. As is with all of our foster dogs, we take dogs who need our help to become the best version of themselves. We rarely bring a dog in that doesn’t need some form of training and help.
I rely heavily on our pack to influence new dogs in the best way possible. In order for me to do this, our pack has to be strong and balanced. The number one quality I look for in a new dog is being naturally calm and quiet. I also want them to already be as balanced as can be. This time around I was looking for a female. I wanted a female not only because I am surrounded by boys (hello husband, horses, cats and dogs) but also because I believe it is important to see how new dogs interact with both male and female dogs.
Enter, Rory (fka Tam) from Arizona Adopt a Greyhound rescue. I have wanted a greyhound for as long as I can remember. They are such incredible athletes and when describing the breed a few characteristics always stuck with me: gentle, sweet tempered, independent. When we met Rory I instantly knew she was going to be the perfect addition. She has such a quiet and calm energy about her, exactly what we need.
When considering a dog for your own family don’t forget to ask yourself the following:
- Are we an active or quiet family?
- Are my current dogs high, medium or low energy?
- What behaviors does my current dog have that I wouldn’t want a new dog to have too?
- Are we willing to work through the decompression and growth period of a new dog?
Be honest about your current family make up and looking for a dog that fits best, rather than focusing on breed or appearance. Focusing on these important factors will allow you to easily welcome a new pack member as seamlessly as possible. If you are looking for a specific breed, know that there are thousands of breed-specific rescues around the country and you are bound to find the perfect pup with time and effort.
Don’t forget to check out the video!
Should you have any questions or need help finding a dog for your family, please reach out! It’s one of my favorite things to do and I am happy to help.
