Many people fall in love with specific dog breeds, causing them to be more likely to adopt and foster dogs of that breed. All dog breeds could appear in shelters, but some are certainly more common than others. Most dogs in shelters are mixed breeds, but certain breeds can get surrendered too, such as if they’re given up by their owner or discarded by a breeder. However, both mixed breeds and purebreds can make great companions, so don’t overlook mutts.
What are the most common shelter dog breeds, and what types of dogs need foster homes? The answers might surprise you.
If you’re ready to foster a dog regardless of their breed, consider taking in one of the at-risk dogs in Memphis. Fostering or adopting one of these dogs will save them from euthanasia.
Most Common Shelter Dog Breeds
The most common shelter dog breeds vary based on your location and the organization, but the following dog breeds are commonly seen at shelters and rescues. There aren’t specific statistics on this topic because a DNA test is often needed to confirm a rescue dog’s breed, which isn’t something most organizations can afford.
Keep in mind that most dogs at shelters a mixed breeds. Thus, many dogs at shelters look like the following breeds, but that may not be the only breed in their DNA. Mixed breeds are just as amazing as purebreds, which is why more people should give them a chance when looking for a dog to adopt or foster.
American Pit Bull Terrier
It’s no surprise that American Pit Bull Terriers, the most common breed labeled as a “Pit Bull,” frequently appear at shelters and rescues. Sadly, Pit Bulls have a bad reputation of being aggressive, which is based on false assumptions. Like all dogs, Pit Bulls can be aggressive if not properly trained and socialized, but they’re typically very sweet. And since they’re often high-energy dogs, it can be difficult for the average dog parent to control them. Thus, owners are to blame, not the dogs.
Not everyone has the right routine and lifestyle for a Pit Bull, but they can be amazing dogs with the right families. So, don’t overlook Pit Bulls like American Pit Bull Terriers when visiting the shelter.
American Bulldog
American Bulldogs commonly fall in the “Pit Bull” or “Bully Breed” category because of their large, stocky builds. In fact, the average person may not realize they’re a different breed from American Pit Bull Terriers. Like most Pit Bulls, American Bulldogs typically have a lot of energy, so they need an owner who can give them the long exercise sessions they need. They can also weigh over 100 pounds in some cases, so they need to be adopted by someone strong enough to control them while working on training.
Labrador Retriever
Many dog lovers might be surprised to see Labs on this list, considering that they’re one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. Sadly, because they’re in such high demand, they’re often overbred, especially by inhumane breeders like puppy mills. Thus, Lab puppies that don’t get adopted quickly are often discarded at shelters. People who don’t do their research before buying a Lab may also surrender their dog to a shelter if the breed ends up being more active than they can handle. These are the same reasons why Labradoodles are becoming more popular in shelters.
German Shepherd
German Shepherds are popular dogs because they’re intelligent and known for being great guard dogs. But like Labrador Retrievers, people often buy German Shepherds without fully researching the breed. While German Shepherds are smart, they’re also very active and thrive when they have a job to do. If they’re not provided with enough mental and physical stimulation, they could cause trouble. They can make great companions for the right person, but they’re not an easy dog for every dog lover.
Chihuahua
If you’re looking for a small shelter dog, Chihuahuas and Chihuahua mixes are the most common small breeds you’ll stumble upon. People often buy Chihuahuas because of their cute, compact size, but some dog owners forget that small dogs need just as much training as large dogs. Chihuahuas are commonly known for barking, growling, and nipping because some dog parents don’t think they need to focus on training as much since Chihuahuas are so small. Thus, these poor little dogs are often surrendered to shelters because they receive a bad reputation that they don’t deserve. Like Pit Bulls, we should blame the owners, not the dogs.
Beagle
Beagles are more popular than the average hound dog because of their small size. However, they can howl just as much as a large hound. People often forget this when choosing to bring home a Beagle, which is why many are surrendered to shelters. Sadly, Beagles are also commonly discarded from puppy mills and animal testing facilities. Yet, despite their dark pasts, Beagles are almost always loving and eager to please their humans.
American Staffordshire Terrier
American Staffordshire Terrier is another breed that typically falls into the “Pit Bull” category. So, these dogs are commonly overlooked for the same reasons as American Pit Bull Terriers and American Bulldogs. They can be very sweet dogs in the right household, but like all breeds, they require plenty of training, exercise, and socialization.
Boxer
Boxers can make great family dogs, which is why they’re popular. Yet, like many other dogs on this list, they require more exercise and attention than many dog lovers realize. Because of that, they often get surrendered to shelters when people realize the breed they brought home isn’t a good fit for their lifestyle.
Dachshund
Dachshunds, commonly called “Weiner Dogs,” are beloved for their adorable and unique appearance. Many people get them because they love how they look and falsely assume they’ll be easy just because they’re small. However, Dachshunds are often stubborn and energetic. They frequently dig holes because they were bred to hunt badgers. Since they probably won’t be hunting badgers in a home setting, they need other activities to keep them busy, such as training sessions, long walks, and puzzle toys.
Australian Cattle Dog
Australian Cattle Dogs, also known as Blue Heelers, are one of the most energetic dogs you can get. They were bred as herding dogs, so they need to keep their minds and bodies active. Their herding instincts often kick in even in a home environment, causing them to herd children and pets. They often get surrendered to shelters when they end up being more than the person can handle. For the same reason, Australian Shepherds are Border Collies frequently end up in shelters too.
Rottweiler
Rottweilers are beautiful, intelligent dogs, but many people are afraid of them because of how large and strong they are. It’s true that they’re highly active dogs that need lots of exercise, but they’re not naturally aggressive. Like Pit Bulls, they just need proper training and socialization to thrive. They’re often overlooked at shelters, but they’re sweet dogs that deserve a chance just as much as every other breed.
What Types of Dogs Need Foster Homes?
All types of dogs need foster homes. There are dogs of all breeds, sizes, ages, and energy levels waiting for someone to adopt or foster them. Thinking that only difficult dogs need foster homes is just a myth. There are plenty of great dogs for people who have never fostered before, such as low-energy senior dogs. There are also plenty of puppies, popular breeds, and healthy dogs.
Of course, certain breeds like American Pit Bull Terriers more desperately need foster homes than others, but not everyone is able to foster them. Some people don’t have enough time and energy to properly care for them. Others might have breed restrictions at their rental property. However, just because you can’t foster the most at-risk dogs doesn’t mean you can’t foster at all.
Fostering an easy dog or a high-demand breed can still make a huge difference. Every dog fostered opens up space at a shelter or rescue for more dogs to be saved. If more dogs are saved, fewer dogs need to be put down in shelters. So, if you love dogs, consider fostering at least once. There’s definitely a foster dog out there that will fit what you’re looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Shelter Dogs Free?
It depends on the shelter, but most dogs in shelters aren’t free. Animal shelters need to cover vaccines, spay/neuter procedures, and basic care, so adoption fees are donations that go toward that. Sometimes, animal lovers will sponsor a dog by paying for their adoption fee, which would cause the dog to be free.
Are Shelter Dogs Vaccinated?
Yes, dogs at shelters and rescues are almost always vaccinated. Vaccinations are crucial for ensuring these dogs don’t spread diseases to others before or after they’re adopted.
Are Shelter Dogs Trained?
It depends on the dog. Some rescue dogs are fully trained because they were trained by their previous owner. Others have never had any training, especially if they came from a puppy mill or another abusive situation. Shelter dogs in foster homes can work on training with their foster parent, which is why fostering is essential.
Can Shelter Dogs Be Service Dogs?
Yes, dogs in shelters can be trained as service dogs. However, the dog needs to have a specific temperament for the job. Service dog training is a lengthy process, which is why most service dogs are trained for their tasks as puppies.
How Much Do Shelter Dogs Cost?
It depends on the organization. Rescue dog adoption fees typically range between $50 and $300. While hundreds of dollars might seem like a lot to spend on a rescue dog, that money is going to a good cause. Most organizations rely heavily on adoption fees to help them save more dogs.
Shelter Dogs Can Be All Breeds
Any type of dog can end up in a shelter, even puppies and popular breeds. While certain dog breeds are more common as shelter dogs than others, you should check rescues and shelters first if you’re looking for a dog of a specific breed. You might get lucky and find the dog of your dreams already waiting for a forever home.
If you’re not ready to adopt but are interested in fostering, there’s such a wide variety of dogs you can care for. You can find a dog that’s exactly your type or you can try a breed you wouldn’t normally go for since it’s only a temporary situation. Fostering is also a great way to give wonderful mixed breed dogs a chance. No matter which dog you foster, you’ll be helping save lives!
There are currently lots of dogs being put down in the Memphis area, but adopting or fostering can make a huge impact. Check out the at-risk dogs in Memphis to decide if you want to bring one home, whether you’re fostering or keeping them forever.
