Spring Into Action: 5 reasons why adopting a dog in the spring is a great idea!

Millions of adoptable dogs and puppies are in need of forever homes every year – all year. While deciding to adopt a dog, no matter what time of year, it's important to know that each season brings with it its challenges. At How I Met My Dog, we think - when it comes to choosing which season is the best time to bring into your family – spring is just about perfect. Here’s why: 

1. Outdoor meetings

Meeting your new dog for the first time is exhilarating and filled with anticipation. With tons of questions running through our heads like: will we get along? Will there be an instant connection? How will I know if this dog is the one for me? Setting yourself and your dog up for a great first impression is key. For many dogs, the spring weather naturally means more walks and more outside time in general. A well-exercised dog is a happy, well-behaved dog! When meeting a dog or puppy at a shelter or rescue, ask if there is an outdoor play area or somewhere to go for a walk. Spending time outside is a great way to see a dog’s play style while burning off excess energy.

2. Bathroom Breaks

Taking home a dog that is not housebroken may seem like a daunting task but training your pup or dog to go to the bathroom outside is arguably more enjoyable in warmer weather. Some pups catch on fast and others take some time to get the hang of going to the bathroom outdoors. But whether its 15 trips outside or 50, you and your dog will be thankful that the weather is milder.

Need some housebreaking tips? Check out our article S#*! Happens: 3 Tips for Housebreaking your Dog.

3. Bonding Time

One of the best ways to bond with your dog is with positive reinforcement training. Always praise your dog for the effort he/she puts in to please you when you are teaching them. Once you are confident that your dog has got the hang of a new word or command, practice that same command outside and up the anti with tasty treats. The treats will help your dog ignore the distractions of outdoor sounds and smells. With more daylight on your side, you’ll have more time to practice outside and, for your dog, practice makes perfect.

Want to learn how to teach your dog some tricks? Read our article 3 Easy Indoor Games that Become Impressive Outdoor Tricks, you’ll love it!

4. Pack Walks

With the shorter days and colder weather in the rear view, springtime is the perfect time for you and your new dog to strut your stuff.  Dogs are highly social creatures so the more, the merrier. Reach out to friends who also have dogs and set up times to meet – before and after work – for regular walks and group playtime.

5. Dining Alfresco

Spring is the start of outdoor dining season! Dog friendly restaurant patios and outdoor food courts are great places to bring your new pup. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to work on your dog’s leash and social skills when meeting other dogs and other dog parents. The more you and your dog go out and about together, the more chances your dog will have to impress you and others with what he’s learning. Having a well-behaved, well-socialized dog will make the possibilities for dog friendly outings limitless.

Need some leash walking tips? This one's a great read… Training Your Dog to Walk on a Leash: Tips and Benefits.