Every year, over half a million dogs in America are euthanized, while the majority of the others live day-to-day behind bars. While many pick out their dream puppy at the pet store, dogs who reside at shelters wait to be chosen, but many don’t make it to their forever home. 

The phrase, “Adopt don’t shop” is becoming increasingly common, but do we truly understand how severe this problem is? In the United States alone, animal shelters are becoming more and more overwhelmed with the increasing number of pets being surrendered. More often than not, the solution to the overcrowding epidemic is euthanasia as puppy mills and purebred animals are becoming more popular. 

As of 2024, APPA (American Pet Products Association) reported that 34% of dogs are bought from breeders, while only 23% are adopted from shelters and humane societies. In addition, backyard breeding is extremely unethical, and should not be supported. 

Dogs who come from backyard breeders are raised in unsanitary, and poor conditions, and a lot of them aren’t properly socialized. A lack of proper socialization leads to animals with behavioral or aggression issues, and many pets end up being surrendered because of this.        

The majority choose pets based on breed, appearance, size, and temperament, which is what makes it so easy to buy from breeders. Breeders can pick and choose the appearance of the puppy, which makes this so appealing. Though it may be tempting to buy the adorable, purebred puppy, chances are that you can find a similar or even better pet at your local shelter. 

Pros of Rescuing a Dog 

• Adopting saves two lives. 

When you adopt one dog, you are not only saving one life, you are saving two. Every pet that leaves makes room for another.

• Many dogs in shelters are already trained

A large percentage of shelter dogs have already been in a home, meaning that many have already been trained and taught basic house manners. This advantage makes rescuing a dog much easier. If they have behavioral issues, many shelters have programs that help you work with your new pet upon adoption.

• Puppies!

Many people believe that shelters have mainly older dogs, but this is not true. If you are looking for a younger dog, give a local animal shelter a try. You can find dogs with almost every trait desired, without having to buy from a breeder.

• Fight Back Against Unethical Breeding

Support organizations who care more about the welfare of every animal, instead of contributing to places like puppy mills, and backyard breeders who likely only care about their proceeds. 

• Shelter Dogs Have so Much Love to Offer

Almost every dog provides unconditional love to their owners, but shelter dogs have proven to adore their families, and show them so much love for giving them a second chance at life. 

• Affordability

Typically, buying pets from a rescue is more affordable than buying a purebred puppy, and many of the necessities like leashes, collars, and starter food are provided to the new owners. Adoption fees are also much lower. Buying a puppy from a breeder can be thousands of dollars, versus only a couple hundred collars at a shelter. 

In the end, the overwhelming crisis of overpopulation in animal shelters all over the world can be fought, one adoption at a time. Adopting instead of shopping saves lives, and there are endless benefits to this simple action. Ultimately, looking beyond appearance, and giving shelter dogs a second chance will change their life, and yours.