Giving a home to a rescue dog can be a great way to do your bit for the animal kingdom, but rescue pets can be sensitive creatures. Find out how to make an informed choice when it comes to dealing with man's best friend.

Commitment
Dogs can be time-consuming, expensive and on occasions demanding, so make sure you're ready to commit to taking on a rescue dog. Dogs need at least two walks a day, daily feeding and lots of love and attention. You'll also need to make sure that you can afford pet insurance, veterinary bills and dog food, costing the average owner from £750 - £1000 per year.

Research
It pays to do your homework before you adopt a rescue dog. The RSPCA endeavour to find out as much as possible about their rescue dogs' history so they can advise potential owners about the dogs' family background, personality and quirks in order to find them a suitable home. Whichever rescue centre you approach, it's good practice to ask for information on the dog's history, personality and likes and dislikes.

Know your breeds
You might be completely open minded about which type of dog you would like, but it always helps to know the nature of different breeds of dogs. Labrador Retrievers can be great dogs for first-time owners as they're easy to train. They're also a great family dog, fitting in well around children as are Boxers, Poodles, Welsh Corgis and Irish Setters.

Patience
Whether your dog has previously suffered abuse or has simply been in need of a new, loving owner, he or she may find the first few weeks unsettling in their new home. You will both be getting to know each other during this time, and your dog will try to find its natural position within the family. It's during these first few weeks that you'll need to lay down some ground rules, gently but firmly. The RSPCA offers the following advice:

- Be patient and take things slow.
- Remember your dog won't know you or your lifestyle.
- Give your new pet time to settle in and introduce different activities and people over time.

Understanding behaviour
Rescue dogs can be understandably anxious when you leave them alone for periods of time. Until your dog has settled into the home well enough to know that you will come back, next time you walk out of the front door, be sensitive to leaving them on their own.

The RSPCA advises:

- Going out for short periods and slowly increasing the time that you leave them alone.
- Giving your dog a chew or toy to play with while you are out
- Teaching your dog that being left alone can be enjoyable and relaxing.
- Remember accidents can still happen.

For more information on adopting a rescue dog, visit the RSPCA website

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