Advice on choosing a rescue dog?

stanleh

We lost our bulldog about 6 weeks ago and while I can't imagine ever having any other dog, I am starting to think about a new furry friend for us to have.  I miss having a dog around and my daughter is starting to ask when we are getting another one.  I don't know much about different breeds of dog but know I want a rescue dog and obviously, one that is good with kids.

How does one go about trying to find a new family member?  Do you just visit the shelters and try to find one that sort of picks you?  I really have no idea where to start.

Thanks for any advice!

RedheadBaker

I'm very sorry for your loss.  

I would look for shelters and rescues in your area that utilize foster homes. Then ask to meet dogs that are being fostered with children. 

Make a list of attributes that you want, or want to avoid:

Age range

Energy level

Grooming requirements

Etc.  

Sanderso39

I started on petfinder.com.  I also knew I wanted a jack russel though.  I would do research on breeds before going to a shelter.  You dont want to walk in there and fall in love with a lab but not have time to play for an hour everyday or fall in love with a pug who doesnt leave the couch and you are outdoor people.  If your bulldog was a good fit you can search for another.  I love petfinder.com. 

byrne15

RedheadBaker:

I'm very sorry for your loss.  

I would look for shelters and rescues in your area that utilize foster homes. Then ask to meet dogs that are being fostered with children. 

Make a list of attributes that you want, or want to avoid:

Age range

Energy level

Grooming requirements

Etc.  

this!  We foster for a local pitbull rescue and the plus for those adopting dogs from our household know that they have lived with a dog, a cat and a child.

misspunky

I second looking at petfinder.com and researching breeds. We got our rescue dog from petfinder from a wonderful rescue. Even though we aren't planning on getting another dog for a long while, that site still gets me every time I look at it!

oparcm

We got our 2 year old rescue a few months ago from New England Lab Rescue.  It was a great experience.

APendola

I agree with previous posters that it is great if you can find a rescue group in your area that keeps the dogs in foster homes.  This way, there will be one person that knows the dog really well and can answer all the questions you need to know.  It also means that they are living in a home already and may already have some training, experience living with kids etc.

petfinder.com is a great place to start and may help you find some rescue groups in your area that you have never heard of.

stanleh

Thanks for all the replies....this is extremely helpful.

rikkidawn28

I also found my rescue dog from petfinder.com. I wanted a dog who would be good with children. I heard labs were among the most gentle. I also wanted a dog who was not too active or nervous. When I read Benny's profile, I arranged to meet him. I am so happy I have adopted him. He is very calm yet always gives us a warm welcoming when we get back from work. My cat actually trys to boss him around but he does not pay him any mind. We don't have any kids yet but I know he would be very gentle with them when we do!