HAVE YOU EVER THOUGHT THIS?

Common myths about adoption and rescue:

• I have small kids, so I want a puppy. In actuality, the idea of puppies and small kids is not optimum. Puppies have sharp little teeth and nails, they are learning to be potty-trained (children can step in accidents left behind), and they require a lot of constant attention and training, much like your children. Puppies require a lot of work - oftentimes, taking on a puppy is more work than people bargained for.

• It’s better to get a puppy because you never know what you’re getting with an older dog and I want to mold how the dog will turn out. The exact opposite is actually true. Once a dog hits sexual maturity - what you see is what you get. Puppies are still growing physically and behaviorally and there is no fail-safe way of judging how they will eventually turn out. Furthermore, you need to educate yourself about proper training so that the” little puppy you want to mold” doesn’t turn into a monstrous adult dog. Regardless of the age of the dog, the pivotal piece in this equation is how much training, effort, care and research you as the owner are willing to do to make this a success. You indeed can teach an old dog new tricks and the resiliency and adaptability of these dogs is truly amazing at whatever age they are adopted.

• I don’t want a “broken” dog. There is no such thing as a perfect dog. Anything in life that is worthwhile does takes work. Many of these dogs have come from hard circumstances; but dogs are incredibly resilient. Dobermans especially are eager to please and very intelligent. A rescue dog is like any other dog that fell into less than desirable circumstances. Go into adoption with an open mind. Take things day by day and don’t expect too much too fast – giving the new dog time to get into your routine and learn the boundaries is the best approach.

• These dogs are not good dogs or else their original owners wouldn’t have given them up. There are many reasons why dogs enter rescue. The number one reason is that the animal was most likely purchased as a cute puppy without taking into consideration the lifetime commitment that a dog requires. Other reasons include:

  • Owner passed away
  • Dog was mistreated and seized
  • Moving and don’t want to take the dog with them
  • Irresponsible owners

• I want to go to a breeder because then I will know what I am getting. If you are considering a breeder, please make sure you are doing your research. Most breeders are not responsible breeders. A good breeder will breed for health, breed standard, and temperament. If you see an ad on craigslist, in the newspaper, or at a pet store, those breeders want one thing: MONEY. They are not breeding for the good of the breed and oftentimes pets are not in good health. In fact this irresponsible breeding continues undesirable inherited health conditions and is chiefly responsible for the burgeoning pet overpopulation problem. If you need a recommendation for the name of a responsible breeder, HADR will be happy to help.

The internet is a great source regarding gathering information about the Doberman breed. HADR also is happy to assist you in any way. We want what's best for all dobermans and their owners Don't hesitate to contact us.

Here is a list of useful resources:

• http://www.ApartmentList.com
• https://www.zumper.com/apartments-for-rent/houston-tx/pet-friendly
• http://www.dobermanrescue.org/ownersmanual.html
• http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/faq/dobermanpinschers.html
• http://dpca.org/breed/breed_health.htm
• http://www.flyball.org/
• http://www.hikewithyourdog.com/
• http://www.j-canine.com/
• http://texasvetbehavior.com/about-dr-haug/
• http://www.magnoliakennel.com/

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