While many people adopt dogs with the best intentions, the reality of pet ownership can sometimes be overwhelming, leading to the difficult decision to return a dog to the shelter. Here are 16 reasons why this happens, highlighting the complex emotions and challenges involved.
1. Aggression
Adopting a dog with aggressive tendencies can be frightening and dangerous, especially if there are children or other pets in the home. Despite shelters’ best efforts to screen for aggression, sometimes these behaviours only become apparent once the dog is in a new environment.
2. Financial Strain
The cost of owning a dog is often underestimated. Unexpected veterinary bills, food, grooming, and other expenses can add up quickly, leaving some owners unable to afford their pet’s care.
3. Allergies
Discovering that a family member is allergic to the dog can be heartbreaking. Managing severe allergies might not be feasible, forcing the difficult decision to rehome the pet.
4. Behavioural Issues
Destructive chewing, excessive barking, and other problematic behaviours can strain even the most patient pet owner. These issues often require professional training and significant time investment, which some owners are unprepared for.
5. Housing Restrictions
Many people face restrictions from landlords or housing associations regarding pet ownership. The discovery of such limitations after adoption can leave no choice but to return the dog.
6. Health Problems
Chronic health issues in a dog can be emotionally and financially draining. When a pet requires constant medical attention, some owners find themselves unable to cope.
7. Compatibility Issues
Sometimes, a dog’s personality just doesn’t mesh with the household. Incompatibility with other pets, children, or the owner’s lifestyle can lead to the decision to return the dog.
8. Time Commitment
Dogs require a significant amount of time and attention. Busy work schedules and lifestyle changes can make it difficult for owners to provide the care and companionship a dog needs.
9. Separation Anxiety
Dogs with severe separation anxiety can cause significant damage to a home and distress to the owner. This condition often requires intensive training and sometimes medication, which can be too much for some owners to handle.
10. Personal Circumstances
Life changes such as divorce, moving, or the birth of a child can make it difficult to keep a dog. These personal circumstances often force owners to make the tough choice to rehome their pet.
11. Unrealistic Expectations
Many people have an idealised view of dog ownership and are unprepared for the reality. When the responsibilities and challenges become clear, some owners decide they can’t cope.
12. Lack of Training
Dogs that have not been properly trained can exhibit unwanted behaviours that are difficult to manage. Without the knowledge or resources to train their dog, some owners feel they have no other option but to return the pet.
13. Human Health Issues
Health issues in the owner, such as mobility problems or chronic illness, can make it challenging to care for a dog. When an owner’s health declines, returning the dog may be the best option for both parties.
14. Barking
Excessive barking can lead to conflicts with neighbours and create a stressful home environment. If training efforts fail, the constant noise can push owners to return their dog.
15. Energy Levels
High-energy dogs require extensive exercise and stimulation, which some owners find overwhelming. When a dog’s needs surpass what the owner can provide, rehoming becomes a consideration.
16. Safety Concerns
If a dog poses a safety risk to family members or other pets, returning the dog to the shelter might be the only solution. Ensuring the safety of everyone in the home is a top priority, even if it means making a painful decision.
Reflecting on Commitment
Returning a dog is never an easy decision and comes with significant emotional consequences. It highlights the importance of thoroughly considering the responsibilities and challenges of dog ownership before adopting. Each returned dog has its own story, and while some reasons are unavoidable, many can be mitigated with proper preparation and support.
The post I’m Taking You Back: 16 Reasons Dogs Are Returned first appeared on PawShore.
Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Pixel-Shot.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
