Asking questions.

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Now that you've learned what to expect from the adoption process, the next step is to figure out what to aks once you find the dog you'd like to adopt! It's not hard to fall in love in the shelter, but is he really the one for you?

Be ready to find out everything you can about your potential new dog. Before you hit the shelters, make up a list of possible questions, including:

Why is he available for adoption?
Do you know anything about his history?
Is he housebroken?
Was he ever returned after an adoption? If so, why?
What's his temperament like?
Does he have any behavioral problems?
How is he with children, cats, and other dogs?
Is he neutered; is she spayed?
Are his vaccinations up-to-date?
Does he have, or has he had, any illnesses?
Is he on any medication?
What's his approximate age?
What are his grooming requirements?
What are his exercise requirements?
What commands does he know?
Does he walk well on his leash?

Take notes while you're at the shelter. It can only take one wrong answer to make him the wrong dog for you; and you the wrong owner for him. Again, if you're not 100% sold, go home and ponder your notes until you're absolutely sure if he's the one.

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