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5 Ridiculous Myths About Rescue Dogs

Amy Tokic
by Amy Tokic
Updated:  July 1st, 2022 Published:  July 22nd, 2019

Don’t believe the negative myths you hear about rescue dogs – we take a look at 5 common misconceptions


You’ve heard the rumors and myths surrounding rescue dogs, and they may have prevented you from adopting one of these furry fellows. People want to be sure when welcoming a new four-legged family member, and seeing all these false facts about dogs from shelters can make them vary from opting for a rescue pooch. We get that.


But the problem is that these are mostly just myths- rescue dogs are as much worthy of adoption and as lovely as their luckier fellows whose fate wasn’t to end up in a shelter. We’re here to clear up some of the popular misconceptions and show you why bringing home a rescue dog may be the right choice for you.


Dogs end up in a shelter because of behavior problems


There are many reasons why a dog ends up at a shelter. Perhaps the owner died or moved somewhere that wouldn’t allow pets. It could have been a stray or born on the streets when it was found and brought in. Or perhaps the previous owner just didn’t have the time or patience to dedicate to a dog.


Each dog breed is different with its own strengths, quirks, and needs. It’s possible that the original owner failed to do the research to know what they were getting into before bringing their dog home only to find that it wasn’t a good fit. For example, many German Shepherds, Dutch Shepherds, and Belgian Malinois dogs are purchased because they are cute, and people love how sharp they look in their roles working with police and the military. But these dogs don’t stay small and cute for long! They are great dogs, but they require a lot of exercise and training.


Real behavioral issues usually make up a small portion of rescue dogs in a shelter, and it won’t ever be concealed issue. Dogs with severe behavioral issues or aggressive dogs won’t be adoptable in the first place. Many rescues team up with animal behaviorists and trainers who donate their time to work with the dogs that are most in need, addressing their issues and helping to transform them into incredible pets. Even those that have been through this process won’t be adopted out by a reputable rescue without full transparency regarding the dog’s history and what has been done to help him.


Those who need a bit of help with minor behaviors, such as those that are still not fully housebroken, or for example, dogs with separation anxiety will only be offered to experienced adopters. Rescues are also a wealth of information and connections to those that can help your dog adapt to their new home. If you are an experienced adopter and interested in taking on the challenge of a dog that may have some quirks to address, consider asking about recommendations for local trainers. In the meantime, a lot of the dogs from rescues work with volunteers and staff, or are enrolled in various programs that help them become perfect pets before going to a new home.


There are no purebred dogs at the shelter


Shelters have its share of mutts (and we have nothing again mutts – we love them to bits), but you’ll find that about a quarter of the rescue dogs are purebred. Unfortunately, many people don’t inform themselves about a certain breed before buying so a good percentage of purebred dogs gets abandoned after they realize they are not a good fit. As a result, there are plenty of organizations out there that focus on just one breed or type of dog.


If you have your heart set on a purebred, you should try a breed-specific rescue group. Just Google your favorite breed, along with the term “rescue group” and a location (city, state, province, country) and you’ll be treated to a list of breed-specific dog rescues close to you. Alternatively, you could ask around your local shelter and see if any dogs of your preferred breed were surrendered and put up for adoption. If you really want to focus on one breed, it will make the search a bit more complex than it usually would, but it in no way has to mean that you have to resort to buying over adopting.


Is there a breed that you have always wanted to own but have no previous experience with? If so, you may be wondering if it will even be a good fit for your family and your lifestyle. Don’t be afraid to contact breed-specific organizations, ask questions, and be honest about any reasons that you may be hesitant. These individuals are experts in their breed of choice and can help provide you with the information needed to make an educated choice.


Rescue dogs are unhealthy and sick


Again, another untruth. Dogs that are taken in by shelters are given a complete health exam by a veterinarian before being put up for adoption. If a dog does have any medical problems, you’ll be told about them upfront. It’s not the goal of a shelter or a rescue to profit on their dogs so they would try and deceive you, like dubious pet stores or puppy mills would. Their interest is to place the dog in a home where they would thrive, and that’s certainly not possible if they conceal an underlying medical issue from the dog’s future owners.


The majority of shelter dogs are already vetted by a veterinarian, spayed or neutered, up to date on their shots, and more often than not, dewormed, tested for heartworm, and protected from parasites such as fleas and ticks. Dogs that have immediate medical needs are taken care of being placed for adoption. This could include surgery on a broken or fractured limb, amputation, or heartworm treatment among other medical concerns. If it’s something that will be ongoing, a reputable rescue will support you moving forward with your dog. For example, they may send your dog home during heartworm treatment if you can offer a suitable environment for the dog’s treatment. But they will provide the medications necessary throughout the process.


Abused rescue dogs don’t make good pets


People who think this are sorely mistaken. A dog that’s been abused has so much love to give. When they realize they are safe in their new home, they will blossom and the depth of their affection will blow you away. They have been shown first-hand how horrible life can be and, in time, will recognize the incredible differences between their previous life and the life that you have offered.


These dogs can make a full emotional recovery in the right home, as long as you provide the right care and attention. In fact, an abused dog is so happy to be rescued you’ll find that your new pooch is often much more attached and loyal to you and your family. After suffering at the hands of people who were cruel, rescue dogs know how to appreciate kindness and love even more than you’d expect. Truly, there’s nothing like the love and devotion that a rescue dog gives you. They are thankful with every fiber of their being and will not be shy about showing it.


You can’t teach an old dog new tricks


That’s the biggest misconception out there! For ages, people have been spreading false information about how only puppies can be fully trained and that dogs that have a few years behind them are somehow unable to grow, learn, or adapt. That’s simply not true. Older rescue dogs in shelters will impress you with their ability to learn, in fact. Dogs are incredibly adaptable. A senior or an adult dog will be eager to please you same as a puppy would- more, in fact.


All they need is some guidance, patience, love and leadership from you. Once they have that, prepare to be amazed at how fast your dog picks up new habits and tricks. It’s really all about you. If you have the patience and the skills to teach your new dog manners, they are definitely more than able to pick up on it. Age is just a number in this case!


In terms of basic obedience and adopting an adult or senior dog may offer you a leg up. Many of these dogs went through some degree of training during their past life and will carry the lessons that they have learned into their future with you. For example, adult dogs will usually come to you fully housebroken. They may understand commands like “sit”, “down”, or “stay”. Many are also comfortable walking on a leash and have been taught some leash manners. This will give you a solid foundation that you can build upon, helping your dog learn to be the companion that you’ve always wanted.


What myths or rumors have you heard about rescue dogs? Do you have a wonderful experience to share about your rescue dog? Please share them in the comments section below.


WOW
Amy Tokic
Amy Tokic

Amy Tokic, Editor of PetGuide.com, is a passionate animal lover and proud pet parent of Oscar, a Shih Tzu/Chihuahua cross, and Zed, a Japanese Chin. Her love of animals began in kindergarten, when she brought her stuffed dog Snoopy into class with her every day. Now, she writes about her adventures in pet ownership and tirelessly researches products, news and health related issues she can share with other animal enthusiasts. In her free time, Amy loves perusing used book and record stores, obsessing over the latest pet products available and chasing squirrels with wild abandon (a habit attributed to spending too much time with her pooches).

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Can you believe it is already winter, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner? As the holiday approaches, many dog owners may wonder how to include their furry family members in the festivities safely. While Thanksgiving is best known for being a time to indulge in delicious meals, we must remember that not all human foods are safe to share.In this article, we will look at the most common Thanksgiving dinner options, ranging from turkey and ham to veggies and desserts, creating a list of holiday treats your dog can enjoy safely (excluding others).Let’s get started on planning your dog’s ideal Thanksgiving feast…Should I Bring My Dog to Thanksgiving Dinner?For some families, including the pets in their holiday gatherings is a decision that is just as natural as any other member of the family. But there are a few essential questions that you should ask yourself before packing up your dog’s favorite toys and heading out on a holiday family road trip.Who is hosting the holiday gathering? Have you asked them if dogs are welcome?Does your dog have good manners around the table (not begging, counter surfing, or trying to steal food)?Is there a quiet space for your dog to go if they feel overwhelmed?Will there be other dogs there? Have they met previously, or will they be meeting for the first time in a busy/noisy setting (not advisable)?Will all family members respect your boundaries regarding what they can/can’t give your dog?Is your dog comfortable with large gatherings and high-energy spaces?While we understand wanting to have your dog by your side, many dogs would be happier at home in their cozy bed or on the couch – and that’s okay! When your dinner is over and you head home, you’ll have a loving companion waiting to greet you.What Not to Feed Dogs on Thanksgiving? Few things will ruin the vibe of your family Thanksgiving dinner like a trip to your local emergency veterinary clinic. Unfortunately, every holiday weekend, an influx of dogs come through the doors due to toxicity and poisoning – the result of eating unsafe foods (stolen or given to them) from the Thanksgiving dinner table. Here are a few items to keep safely out of your pup’s reach: Stuffing or Dressing Thanksgiving dinner isn’t the same without this traditional dish, but stuffing is made with several ingredients that could make your dog sick. Onions and garlic are in almost every traditional stuffing recipe, but these members of the Allium family can be extremely dangerous if ingested. They damage red blood cell membranes, causing a decrease in the red blood cell count, which can trigger serious health complications such as kidney damage. In the most severe cases, ingesting onions and garlic can be fatal. Plus, stuffing or dressing is often made with a variety of spices that can upset your pup’s stomach!

A New Survey Shows Both Pets and Owners Feel Separation Anxiety

When you really love spending time with your pet, and vice versa, it is only natural that you feel sad when you are apart. For pets, this is often manifested as the dreaded  separation anxiety, which can cause a lot of issues both for them and their owners alike. While you know you are coming back from work – unlike your pooch – so you won’t feel as stressed about the time you spend away from your pet, that doesn’t mean that it won’t affect your mental health. The latest  survey from PetMed Express only proves that separation has an effect both on dogs and their pawrents.The results of this survey were recently released after being conducted by OnePoll, and they show us that pet parents – unsurprisingly – while out away for work or chores, will deeply miss their four-legged friends back at home. And, interestingly, the poll shows that the strain only got worse after the owners had to return to their offices after the Covid pandemic and the time they spent in their homes. "This research confirms what we already know: People love their pets and prioritize being with them," said Matt Hulett, President and CEO of PetMeds. "What's eye-opening is how many pet parents feel their own sense of separation anxiety and loneliness when they're away from their pets – a concept that underscores the pivotal role our pets play in our lives."The results indicate that 4 in 10 pet parents said that they would rather accept a lower salary and work from home, just so they could be closer to their furry friends. It is a sad truth and an everyday occurrence that owners have to endure the commute and long work hours and yearn for the company of their pets all the while. PetMeds claims that pet parents begin to miss their pets just 37 minutes after being apart, on average. Furthermore, the results show that on average they find themselves thinking about their pets about 13 times per day. Here are some other stats included:44% expressed worry about their pets experiencing separation anxiety52% have felt an increase in their own separation anxiety in the past two years42% said they have observed a change in their pet's mental health and behavior in the past two years48% said their pets follow them to the door and look sad when they leave63% would like more support and guidance in understanding their pet's health and behavior70% would try pet telehealth servicesWhat about you? How do you cope with being separated from your cherished four-legged friend?

Scientists Uncover Secrets of Extinct "Wooly Dog" Breed

Throughout history, dogs have played several key roles in the lives of people globally. They have hunted, worked, and provided for us, forever weaving them into the fabric of human existence. We often use this knowledge to better understand our modern dogs by reflecting on their original purpose as a breed. Unfortunately, not every breed continues to thrive among us today.The Coast Salish wooly dog was a unique breed, kept by the First Nations people throughout the Pacific Northwest, including Vancouver Island, for its fleece-like coat. A new study reveals insights into the history of the now-extinct breed.Unlike most animals at that time in history, the dog was kept in pens and longhouses. This was done to prevent the dogs from mixing with village and hunting dogs, preserving the breed and the fleece it provided.“They were sheared like sheep, and the wool was woven into blankets,” recounted Eliot White-Hill of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “Blankets were like currency in our economy prior to contact and some of the most important things you could own and give away as gifts.”The dogs were fed a diet of fish and elk and were seen as beloved family members.“It’s not just a dog – it’s a relative. It has enormous spiritual power, conveyed in its wool,” explained Michael Pavel, an elder of the Skokomish-Twana tribe and one of the study's authors. “Imagine being able to receive the gift of wool fiber, being able to learn to weave that into yarn, into an entity, or a blanket or robe that you could wrap yourself in the coldest of winter and feel the warmth of those prayers. That’s how we look at it, and we can now enjoy a scientific view, as well.”Unfortunately, the breed did not survive colonization. It’s not clear exactly what caused the demise of the Coast Salish wooly dog – the introduction of European dog breeds, rules enforced on First Nations people during assimilation and displacement, or smallpox epidemics being a few of the hypothesized factors.But thanks to the preserved pelt of a wooly dog named Mutton, who died in 1859, researchers can now learn a little more about the unique DNA of the dog, its lineage, and insight into the breeding practices of local Indigenous communities.Researchers compared DNA from Mutton’s pelt to that of a separate non-wooly village dog that lived and died in the same region at approximately the same time.While the information gathered from the study did not offer any conclusive answers about the disappearance of the breed, it did hypothesize that the Indian Act of 1876 played a critical role as it would have directly impacted the ability of Indigenous women to pass on valuable knowledge about caring for the dogs and weaving necessary to its survival.On a positive note, the study did support historical facts shared by First Nations people in that area – a valuable piece of the puzzle as many work to reclaim the traditions of their ancestors.“It brought a large group of people together that reaffirmed for us the history we know,” stated Violet Elliott, also of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. “It was a gift of collaboration with other nations.”

Britain's Beloved Breed, the Scottish Terrier, Faces Extinction

Once an icon of British culture, the Scottish terrier is now facing extinction. The Scottie has a distinctive silhouette of a short-legged but sturdy dog with furnishings at the beard, legs, and lower body.These mighty pooches decorated everything from the Monopoly board to designer bags, and shortbread tins. However, the Kennel Club has placed the Scottish terrier on its “at watch” list after only 406 puppies were registered by breeders in 2023.The number of registered Scotties has been plummeting for five consecutive years, but this is a record low.The Scottie was the most popular in the 1930s when there were more than 5,800 registered puppies in a single year. Presidents Franklin D Roosevelt and George W Bush enjoyed the company of Scottie dogs, while countless celebrities including Dorothy Parker and Charles Lindbergh owned a Scottish terrier. Originally bred to hunt foxes, badgers, and other vermin in the Highlands, the Scottish terrier has a loyal, fateful, and bold nature, but is never aggressive. Scotties are dignified, self-assured, independent, and highly intelligent dogs that make wonderful companions to people of all ages.Unfortunately, the Scottie isn’t the only dog that has fallen out of favor with British dog lovers. On the Kennel Club’s “at watch” list are also the English pointer, the rough collie, the wire fox terrier, the Sussex spaniel, the curly-coated retriever, the otterhound, the Gordon setter, the Norwich terrier, and the Manchester terrier. “The Scottish terrier has been such an icon and recognizable breed in the UK for decades and means so much to so many different people, so these latest figures are really worrying,” said Bill Lambart, a spokesman for the Kennel Club.On the other end of the popularity spectrum are Bernese mountain dogs and miniature longhaired Dachshunds, which saw the biggest rise in registrations. The English setter, the Jack Russel terrier, and the Yorkshire terrier also experienced a surge in popularity. Brits are lucky to have more than two hundred wonderful dog breeds to choose from. Each of these breeds has unique personality and character traits and make amazing companions. However, most dogs seen in the parks and streets come from the top ten most popular breeds.“People often opt for well-known choices and simply forget to dig a little deeper, with the worrying knock-on effect that not only are some of our most iconic breeds in decline but also that people might not be getting the perfect match for them,” said Lambert. “People simply forget there are so many different dog breeds, with different personalities and characteristics, and it’s not just the well-known ones that could be a great match for our lifestyles.” The Kennel Club is pleased to see that some of the country’s native breeds, like the English setter, are regaining their popularity. However, the organization also stresses that many breeds are at risk of extinction only because they are no longer fashionable. The top ten most popular breeds in the UK, including the French bulldog, Labrador retriever, and Cocker spaniel, account for more than 60 percent of annual puppy registrations for all breeds. Despite the low registration numbers, there’s still hope for the Scottish terrier. Breed enthusiasts and clubs have started to promote the breed’s unique traits, in hopes of increasing the public’s interest in this amazing breed. The plan to educate the public about the Scottish terrier’s character, history, and suitability as a companion pet could be essential for boosting the breed’s registration numbers. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?

Final Thoughts - Can I Muzzle My Dog to Stop Barking?Excessive barking can be frustrating and, if left unaddressed, can put you, as the owner, in a difficult situation. In some places, this can lead to fines or even eviction due to noise complaints. Unfortunately, the process of training a dog to stop barking isn’t one that is usually solved overnight – but it can be done! While you might have seen it recommended to use an “anti-bark” muzzle to stop your dog’s barking, it is not recommended for anything more than a 10 to 15-minute quick fix. Not only does it not teach your dog not to bark in the future, but the muzzle's design could create a dangerous situation. Instead, start by identifying the cause. Is your dog overly excited? Is there a trigger that makes them feel fearful and stressed? Are they trying to protect you when someone walks onto your property? Knowing the trigger will help you not only stop it but also manage your dog’s barking in the short term. If you feel overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to contact a professional trainer or certified behaviorist to offer guidance and direction. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs?

Ah, peanut butter –who doesn’t love a smear of this sticky butter on their toast? Whether you top it with bananas or jelly or something else altogether, spread on bread, mix in oatmeal, or add to smoothies, you likely enjoy the nutty goodness of peanut butter at least a few times a week. But can you share PB with your dog? While this tasty spread is generally safe for dogs as they have no issue eating peanuts in the form of butter, it’s the other ingredients that may be in the PB you’re eating that could harm them. This is what you should know before giving your pet peanut butter – whether as an ingredient of something else or on its own.Is Peanut Butter Safe for Dogs? To give you a short and straightforward answer, yes, peanut butter is safe for dogs when it’s made only out of peanuts as the single ingredient. However, that’s not always the case with commercially made peanut butter. To tweak its consistency, shelf life, or even modify its flavor, companies can add a variety of different ingredients to their peanut butter products, so it’s crucial to read the label before giving your pet even just a lick of peanut butter – and it wouldn't hurt to do so before eating it yourself, either. The most dangerous ingredient (for dogs) that could be added to peanut butter is  xylitol, or birch sugar, as it is sometimes labeled. This sweetener is highly toxic to dogs as even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, and liver failure in dogs.Another thing that could be problematic about peanut butter for dogs is not a matter of a sneaky ingredient but the fact that it’s a high-fat food. If not given in moderation, peanut butter can largely contribute to obesity in dogs, and in turn, promote health issues such as  pancreatitis at worst and upset tummy at best. It is also important to note that some dogs may be allergic to peanuts, the same as is the case with us humans. If you are giving your pet peanut butter for the first time, monitor them for signs of allergic reactions, such as itching, redness, swelling, or gastrointestinal upset, and consult your veterinarian if concerns arise.Benefits of Peanut Butter for Dogs and How To Incorporate It In Your Dog’s DietIn addition to being yummy, peanut butter is also beneficial for dogs. It might be high in fat, but it is predominantly unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, joint function, and immune system function in dogs. It is also a rich source of plant-based protein and will support your pet's overall health when given in moderation. So how do you ensure you don’t overdo it with PB and that your pet reap only the benefits of this nutty spread? While an excellent reward to utilize when training with positive reinforcement methods, peanut butter should be given sparingly rather than every time your pooch does a good job. Use a small amount – a teaspoon will work well for the job. Alternatively, if your pet loves the taste of peanut butter but you’re trying to maintain their weight, opting for peanut butter-flavored treats is a perfect compromise. My dogs prefer crunchy treats and are big PB fans, so one of their favorites is  American Journey Peanut Butter Recipe Grain-Free Oven Baked Crunchy Biscuit Dog Treats.

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