What's it like to adopt a street dog?

Many people think street dogs or rescue dogs are problematic.. but that is far from the truth!

In my experience, street dogs are not problematic, but self aware, independent, experienced and because of this, sometimes untrusting at first. Some people would say Roo is a 'reactive' dog, but what is a reactive dog? One that observes and reacts to their environment in ways they've learnt to for survival?

All dogs have the capability of being a particular way, but personally, I believe it's down to their environment and life experiences. For example, a domesticated dog which has been brought from a breeder at 8 weeks old and welcomed into a soft, safe and loving home, has not had the same life experiences as Roo or other dogs born on the street.

Spending time as a dog walker with many different dogs the differences became very apparent to me. Street dogs have a sence of independence which many don't. Unlike most dogs, Roo will spot a person or another dog from fields away and react in a variety of ways depending on how she feels about the situation.. This isn't because she's a 'live wire', its because this is what she had to do in order to survive. Life on the streets is very different for dogs than a life at home. They HAVE to learn how to read and respond to other dogs body language and ques and assert themselves in the correct way necessary, whether that's to be submissive, or feel the need to defend themselves or their territory.

Roo is maturing nicely and has improved in so many aspects, although it's important she still gets her freedom and independence to be happy and furfilled. She's a wild dog at heart. I've always seen it as a two way street, If I expect her to take the time to work with me, I have to allow her the time to do her too. It's a friendship after all, not a dictatorship.

I personally prefer dogs to have the independence and freedom I believe they should have. It's much more satisfying watching your dog enjoy chasing butterflies and sniffing out trails rather than have them at your feet wondering what you expect next of them. That being said, it's still important to teach basic training and boundaries, essentially setting your dog up to succeed rather than fail.

Although I don't see Roo as an issue ever, because I understand and accept it for what it is, I would admit that some people would probably find Roo a lot of work. Because of her independence, she requires a lot of mental & physical stimulation which luckily i'm happy and able to give her. Although shes "well trained" she's also stubborn with a mind of her own. She doesn't appreciate pointless repetitive training exercises which have no purpose. She's smart, a fast learner, and quick to learn new tricks! But she doesn't enjoy repreating things she's already learnt for no reason. I definitely think when adopting a dog, it should be for them, and not just you. Make sure you have the time, energy and patience to offer them what they need and deserve, whatever it might be. For Roo, she thrives when she's with her favorite people and exploring the world with her nose!

Inspired by Roo's journey, I've written an E-book for anybody who's looking for pawspective into adopting a dog and welcoming them into your home.

Learn more

It covers the basics of what you need, what to expect, how to have a stress free transition, body language, boundaries and much more! - £1 of every sale goes towards our future mission to help more dogs in need too!