A child and their first dog share a unique bond and the connection they form often stays with them for life. Dogs can make excellent companions for children, teaching them about care and responsibility while bringing love, joy, and affection to your family. While the bond between a child and their dog is unmatched, choosing the right dog can be a difficult decision. Deciding whether to purchase from a breeder or adopt from a shelter or rescue can be equally challenging.
Unfortunately, Alberta’s animal welfare system is in crisis. Resources are stretched thin as rescued, seized, and surrendered dogs place growing pressure on shelters and rescues, increasing costs and reducing capacity to help animals. Despite this, according to Hill’s Pet Nutrition’s 2026 report, only 24 percent of people who acquire a dog choose adoption from a shelter. Without a steady stream of adopters, many dogs awaiting care cannot even find the temporary housing they need as shelters are over capacity.
Large dogs struggle more than others to find a family. According to the same Hill’s report, adopters are half as likely to choose a dog over 55lbs compared to a smaller dog or cat. This means large dogs can spend 70 percent longer in shelters – nearly twice as long as their medium- and small-sized counterparts.
While most shelters and rescues in Alberta provide exceptional treatment for the dogs in their care, it doesn’t replace the love and stability of a home and family. These dogs deserve loving homes.
Fortunately, the evidence shows that dogs adopted from shelters make excellent pets. A similar Hill’s report from 2025 showed adopters report emotional benefits including happiness (80 to 87 percent) and fulfillment (47 to 57 percent). Adoption also builds confidence; more than three quarters of people who have adopted from a shelter are more likely to adopt again.
The variety of dogs found in shelters provides families with a range of breeds, sizes, temperaments and personalities to choose from – with the added benefit of being able to meet (or even foster) your family’s potential companion before adopting them.
Mixed-breed dogs, which are commonly found in shelters, have a reduced likelihood of certain genetic conditions. Dogs entering shelters typically receive veterinary care, including vaccinations, treatment and spay/neuter procedures when possible. Choosing a healthy dog is important for your family. While many breeders are responsible, it can be difficult to verify the level of care that has been provided to your potential pup.
Adoption is typically far less expensive than purchasing from a reputable breeder, and adoption fees often include veterinary care, spay/neuter surgeries, and vaccinations.
Adding a dog is a big step for any family to take. Ensuring you can provide the right care for your companion while keeping up with the responsibilities of being a parent can be a challenge, but the unconditional love, excitement, and connection between your pup, your child, and you make it a truly rewarding experience.
The Alberta SPCA serves as the front line of animal protection in Alberta, removing animals from distress across the province. When animals come into our care through seizure or surrender, we partner with temporary caregivers in shelters and rescues to provide housing and care while they wait for their new home. You can make a difference today by considering adoption for your next companion. For a non-exhaustive list of animal shelters and rescues in Alberta visit the Alberta SPCA website at albertaspca.org/animal-shelters or reach out to an animal shelter near you.
The Alberta SPCA protects, promotes, and enhances the well-being of animals across the province. As the frontline of animal protection, our vision is that every animal in Alberta be treated humanely.
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