Adopting a Rescue Dog and Bringing It Home

Adopting a rescue dog can be tremendously rewarding. What could be better than giving a sweet pooch a loving home and getting a new best friend to boot? 

Let’s dig into the process of adopting a rescue dog—from finding the right pup to navigating those first few days, weeks, and months at home with them.

Why should I adopt a rescue dog?

Adopting a rescue dog is more than just bringing home a pet—it’s giving a deserving animal a second (or third) chance at a happy life. Rescue dogs often come from difficult circumstances such as abandonment, neglect, or abuse, and by adopting, you’re helping to reduce the number of homeless animals in shelters.

Beyond the life-changing impact for your new furry friend, adopting a rescue dog comes with many benefits for you, too:

• You’re saving a life. Shelters and rescues often face overcrowding, and adopting helps free up space for other animals in need.
• Rescue dogs come in all shapes, sizes, and personalities. Whether you want a playful puppy or a calm senior, you can find a dog that fits your lifestyle and preferences.
• Many rescue dogs are already vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and sometimes trained or socialized, which can ease the transition into your home.
• Adopting is generally more affordable than buying from breeders or pet stores. Plus, you’re supporting ethical pet ownership and discouraging puppy mills.
• You get the chance to form a special bond with a dog who will appreciate their new home in a way that’s uniquely rewarding.

Choosing to adopt is a compassionate, fulfilling way to add a loyal companion to your life—and it’s a wonderful way to make a positive difference in the world, one paw at a time.

Where can I adopt a rescue dog?

Some reliable resources for finding rescue dogs near you include Petfinder and the ASPCA’s national database. Both of these sites can help connect you with pups from local shelters and rescues. 

Note too that rescues and shelters–although both excellent places to adopt from–are slightly different things. While shelters are usually government-funded organizations that protect and care for all of their pups under one roof, rescues are privately funded operations that tend to rely on individual fosters to house all of their adoptable dogs. 

What are the requirements for adopting a rescue dog?

In most states, you’ll need to meet three requirements to adopt a rescue dog:

• Be 18+
• Have a photo ID
• Show proof of residence (through a utility bill, for example)

You might also be asked to provide personal references who can vouch for your readiness for pet parenthood.Before taking the leap, make sure that you’re familiar with all of the responsibilities of dog parenthood.

How much does it cost to adopt a rescue dog? 

Adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue usually costs up to $500, depending on the organization, your location, and the dog’s age or breed. That fee often includes essentials like vaccines, microchipping, and spay/neuter surgery—all of which can add up to hundreds of dollars if paid for separately.

While some rescues may charge more for puppies or in-demand breeds, adoption is typically far less expensive than buying from a breeder, which can cost $2,000 to $5,000+ just to bring a puppy home.

Altogether, your initial setup—including adoption fees, supplies, and first vet visits—could range from $880 to $8,900, depending on how much you splurge. But by adopting, you’re not just saving money—you’re giving a dog a second chance at a happy life.

What kind of rescue dog should I adopt?

Choosing what kind of rescue dog to adopt is a big decision, and you should weigh several factors before making your choice. 

Ask yourself:

• Are you a seasoned pet parent, or a first-time dog owner?
• If you have any other dogs or cats, do you know how they react to newcomers, and what temperaments they might get along with better?
• Will you be raising a house dog with a fenced in backyard, or an apartment pup?
• How much time do you spend at home? Would that change if you get a new job in the future, for instance?
• How much time and experience do you have to train and socialize your dog? 
• Are you prepared to take on the responsibilities of puppyhood, like potty training and more frequent vet visits, or could adopting an adult dog be a better fit?

Rescues and shelters are usually pretty good at assessing pet-parent-to-pooch compatibility and take these questions into account as they help match you with the right dog. They’ll also be familiar with your dog’s behavioral history and be able to brief you on any issues that aren’t immediately apparent when you first meet them. 

You might think you’ve found love at first sight, but it’s generally still a good idea to shop around—even among other rescues—to make sure you find the perfect match! 

And, even if you bring home the sweetest and gentlest pup you’ve ever met, their integration and 

What should I do before I bring home my rescue? 

Starting the journey with a new pet is unpredictable and even a little messy at times. Here are some simple steps you can follow before picking up your pup to help ease the transition:

• Decide where in the house your dog will be spending the most time. They might be overwhelmed in those first few weeks and forget some of their housebreaking, so make sure to pick a room that will be comfortable for them, and easy to clean (like the kitchen).
• Dog-proof your home, or at least the room where they will be staying in the early days. Stow away any dangerous decorations and potentially toxic food, plants, or chemicals. Make sure that all valuables are out of reach (especially things of the more chewable and scratchable variety).
• Set up the crate if you’re planning to crate-train your rescue.
• Establish a training plan with your whole household—consistency is key. Agree on a shared vocabulary of commands so that you’re not sending mixed messages. And, if you’re bringing home a puppy, try to create a schedule for them.
• Stock up on dog food, treats, and toys. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need for your new dog. Ask the rescue what food they already eat, and consult with a vet if and how to transition them to different food.
• Consider microchipping your pup if the rescue hasn’t already done so. It will come in handy if they ever run away or get lost. 

What do I do after I bring my rescue home? 

The first few weeks with your new dog set the tone for everything to come. Whether you’re bringing home a puppy or an adult rescue, consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement go a long way. Start by establishing a daily routine that includes meals, walks, rest, and training—dogs thrive on predictability, especially in a new environment.

Training should begin right away. Crate training can give your dog a secure place to rest and ease separation anxiety, while simple commands like “sit” or “stay” help shape good behavior. Use treats to reward what you want to see more of, and gently redirect behaviors like barking or jumping before they become habits. The goal is to guide your dog rather than overwhelm them—especially if they come from a shelter or have a history of trauma.

Bonding happens through routine, play, and clear communication. Games like fetch or tug not only burn energy but also build trust and connection. Make training part of your everyday life—for example, ask for a sit before meals or before going outside. And make sure everyone in your household uses the same rules and commands to avoid confusion.

If you have other pets, introduce them slowly and calmly, starting in neutral spaces if possible. Don’t rush the process; let them get comfortable at their own pace. Over time, with gentle guidance and positive experiences, your rescue will begin to feel right at home.

Before we go…

Adopting a rescue dog can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Doing your research and prepwork beforehand can make a big difference in this long-term commitment. And don’t forget to be patient with both yourself and your new furry friend, especially during your first few months together. 

Choosing the right dog might take time, but you can sign up for Lemonade pet insurance in seconds. Click below to get your quote started.

A few quick words, because we <3 our lawyers: This post is general in nature, and any statement in it doesn’t alter the terms, conditions, exclusions, or limitations of policies issued by Lemonade, which differ according to your state of residence. You’re encouraged to discuss your specific circumstances with your own professional advisors. The purpose of this post is merely to provide you with info and insights you can use to make such discussions more productive! Naturally, all comments by, or references to, third parties represent their own views, and Lemonade assumes no responsibility for them. Coverage and discounts may not be available in all states.