When it comes to adding a new family member to your pack, the thought of finding the right match can feel overwhelming. First, it’s important to know what you’re looking for in your new dog. Are you after a puppy, an adult, or a senior dog? What energy level do you want your dog to have? How active will their lifestyle be? Will they be around young children or elderly people? How much time can you spend on grooming and maintaining their coat?
Once you’ve answered these questions, it will help narrow down your search.
Next, you’ll need to decide whether you want to rescue a dog or buy one from a breeder.
If you choose to rescue or rehome a dog from a shelter or rescue group, you’ve already taken the first step in saving a dog’s life! Remember, getting a dog from a shelter or rescue doesn’t always mean adopting an older crossbreed—many purebred dogs, as well as puppies, also need rehoming.
What Shelter or Rescue Group Should I Go To?
Sadly, backyard breeding is a significant issue in Australia. This occurs when someone who is not a registered breeder allows their dog to reproduce—whether with the same or a different breed. As a result, shelters, pounds, and rescue groups are overwhelmed with dogs year after year.
The upside is that there are many wonderful dogs looking for homes, so you’re truly spoilt for choice when it comes to rehoming the right dog for you.
If you’re looking for a specific breed, many breed-specific rescue groups can be found with a quick Google search. There are also broader breed-focused organisations—for example, Working Dog Rescue covers a range of breeds such as Border Collies, Kelpies, and Koolies.
If you’re unsure of what breed you’re after, or you’re open to a mixed breed, it’s a great idea to explore your options and find the dog that best suits your family. Visiting a local animal shelter, if there’s one nearby, is a fantastic way to meet potential new family members.
Another excellent starting point is PetRescue —a national website used by most shelters and rescue groups to list adoptable animals. You can filter your search by location, breed, size, age, and more, helping you find the perfect match. Some dogs are even available for interstate adoption!
What Happens if I Rehome a Dog and it Doesn’t Work Out?
Unfortunately, sometimes a dog may not be the right fit for your home—and that’s okay. Their perfect match is still out there waiting for them… and so is yours. Reputable rescue groups and shelters understand this and will allow you to return a dog if they’re not the right match for your family or home. Many also offer trial periods, giving everyone time to get to know each other before making a long-term commitment.
Another great option is to consider fostering a dog through a rescue group before proceeding with adoption. Fostering gives you the chance to experience what life with that dog might be like, while also providing a temporary home for a dog in need.
Not a Problem Dog—Just a Dog in the Wrong Home
Absolutely not. The reason a dog ends up in a shelter or with a rescue group is often unknown—but it certainly doesn’t mean they’re a “problem dog.” Some dogs are removed from their living situations for their own safety, while others are surrendered because their owners can no longer care for them. In cases of accidental litters, the owner might not have the resources to raise the puppies until they’re old enough for new homes, so entire litters may be surrendered as well.
Often, people don’t fully understand the needs of a particular breed. As the dog grows, they may find themselves unable to meet those needs, and rehoming becomes the best option for the dog’s well-being.
Whatever the reason, every dog is simply looking for their perfect match. The shelter or rescue group caring for them will conduct temperament testing and behavioral assessments to provide you with honest, thoughtful insights into each dog’s personality and the kind of home they’ll thrive in.
Welcoming a dog into your life is a big decision, but it’s also one of the most rewarding. Whether you’re adopting a playful pup, a calm senior, or a misunderstood mix in need of a second chance, the right dog is out there waiting for you. By choosing to adopt or foster, you’re not only changing a dog’s life—you’re adding a new chapter to your own.
Take your time, do your research, ask questions, and trust the process. When the right match comes along, you’ll know. And the love and loyalty you receive in return will make it all worthwhile.
