A Guide to Rehoming an Ex-Working Dog

If you're thinking about bringing a dog into your home, choosing to rehome an ex-working dog could be a great way to go about it. There are many things to consider, so you should consult anyone living with you. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and requires a lot of time, patience, and money. This is especially true when it comes to rehoming an ex-working dog, which can come with its own unique quirks or challenges. We've put together a few top things you need to consider before making the decision to bring a former working dog, such as an ex-police dog, into your home.     

Potential Behavioural Issues

It is also important to be aware of any behavioural issues, such as anxiety or unfriendliness, which may require specialised training or medication. You need to be sure you're creating the right environment for the dog and your family to ensure the best experience for everyone. Many working dogs may have been through a lot in their careers and in some cases, may suffer from trauma. This could cause issues when it comes to socialising and bringing the dog for the first time. Another thing to consider is the fact that a retired military or police dog could have been taken from duty as a consequence to perform the usual tasks. Sometimes this is due to age, but a behavioural change could make its transition as a pet much more difficult than you might initially suspect. It is also essential to have a thorough understanding of the dog's medical history, as well as any ongoing health issues. This can help you determine the type of care and attention the dog will need, as well as any potential vet bills you may incur.

Exercise Requirements

Working dogs are used to a high level of physical activity and mental stimulation, so it is crucial to ensure that you can provide the exercise and training they need. This can be especially challenging if you have a busy lifestyle, so it is important to be realistic about the amount of time and energy you can dedicate to your new pet. It's important to note that the amount of exercise that your new dog will require will depend on them as an individual. Speak to the place or the individual who previously had the dog, as they may be able to offer more insight. Otherwise, it may take some time to work with your dog personally to find this out for yourself.

Insurance and Possible Vet Fees

One of the biggest expenses of owning a dog is the cost of veterinary care. This can be especially true when it comes to older ex-working dogs, who are more likely to have pre-existing medical conditions as a result of their advancing age. Not all pet insurance providers will cover older dogs or even old working dogs, so it's worth looking carefully at the terms of each policy to make sure that the insurance you take out will cover your dog and for any potential vet bills (including treatments, surgery or medication) you might face. As an example, have a look at a provider like Petsure to get an understanding of what kind of insurance you should be after.                

Socialisation and Integration into Your Home

Finally, it is important to consider how your new dog will fit into your home and lifestyle. This can be challenging for some ex-working dogs, who may have lived in a structured environment for most of their lives. It is important to take things slow, allowing your new pet to settle in and get used to their new surroundings. You may also need to work on socialising your dog, helping them to adjust to living with other pets and people. Make sure you do your research in to the type of dog you will be bringing into your home, there are lots of resources available online from organisations like the Dogs Trust that will help you along the way.

In conclusion, rehoming an ex-working dog is a big decision. It is important to consider all the potential challenges, as well as the costs and responsibilities involved. However, with the right preparation and support, rehoming an ex-working dog can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for both you and your new pet. Whether you are looking for a new companion or a challenge, taking in an ex-working dog can be a great way to provide a new lease on life for a deserving animal.