Adopting a dog is a commendable choice, demonstrating compassion, responsibility and a commitment to giving an animal a second chance at a happy life. While purchasing a dog may suit some people, it is not the right choice for everyone.
Before proceeding, consider the time, space and long-term dedication required, as dogs need daily care, regular exercise, consistent training and routine veterinary attention. Reflect on the dog’s temperament, age and energy levels to ensure a match with your lifestyle. Across Ireland there are numerous charities, rescue centres and local pounds offering dogs of various breeds and backgrounds in need of a loving home. By adopting, you not only enrich your own life but also grant a deserving dog a fresh start.
Note: Most charities will carry out a home check and require you to hold an appropriate dog licence before you bring a dog home.
Irish Dog Charities
Note: There are over 100 charities across Ireland that help with dog rescue and rehoming. This table shows just a small selection of some of the larger organisations. Many local and specialised rescues also do excellent work in their communities.
Adoption fees
Most charities request an adoption fee or donation. This partially covers their care and other costs that go into rehoming the dog. Typical fees range from €100 - €300, you can see a table of dog adoption costs from Irish Charities .
Other pet ownership costs
Do consider the total costs in owning a dog, including dog license, vet care, pet insurance, food, toys, training, and kennelling. We would encourage you to read this free 100-page dog owners guide to understand more about pet ownership.
Be prepared for your dog
We'd also recommend you use our buyers checklist to make sure you have thought about everything before you buy get a dog. It's a very exciting time to bring a new dog into your home, but a few minutes thinking things through will help make sure you are well-prepared.
Important Consideration
When adopting a rescue dog, you may not know their full background or history. This can sometimes lead to unexpected behavioural challenges or health issues. Before adopting, ask the charity about their return or support policies if the adoption doesn't work out. Many reputable rescues will take the dog back and help find a more suitable match. Also ask whether the ownership of the dog will be in your name, or if it will remain under the charities’ or rescues’ names.
Home Checks
Most dog rescue charities in Ireland will conduct a home check before approving your adoption application. This is to ensure the dog will be going to a safe, suitable environment. Here are common things charities typically look for:
Property Requirements
- Secure garden: Fully fenced garden with no gaps or escape routes
- Fence height: Minimum 1.2-1.8 meters depending on dog size
- Gates: Secure gates that lock properly
- Living space: Adequate indoor space for the dog's size
- Hazards: No toxic plants or dangerous items in garden
Household Considerations
- Family agreement: All household members want the dog
- Children: Age-appropriate match with the dog
- Other pets: Compatibility with existing animals
- Work schedule: Dog won't be left alone too long
- Experience: Previous dog ownership or willingness to learn
Note: Requirements vary between charities and may depend on the specific dog. Some charities are more flexible than others. If you rent your home, you'll need written permission from your landlord allowing pets.
Consider Fostering First
If you're unsure about making a long-term commitment, fostering might be an ideal option. Fostering involves:
- Temporary care: You provide a loving home for a dog while the charity finds their forever home
- Shorter commitment: Foster periods can range from a few weeks to several months
- Support provided: Most charities cover veterinary costs and provide food and supplies
- Trial experience: It's a great way to see if dog ownership suits your lifestyle
- Making a difference: You're helping free up shelter space and socialise dogs for adoption
Many Irish charities have foster programmes - contact them directly to learn more about their specific requirements and support systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most charities request an adoption fee or donation that partially covers their care and other costs that go into rehoming the dog. Typical fees range from €100 - €300.
Other ownership costs include dog license, vet care, pet insurance, food, toys, training, and kennelling. It's important to budget for these ongoing expenses before adopting.
Yes, most charities will carry out a home check and require you to hold an appropriate dog licence before you bring a dog home.
Consider the time, space and long-term dedication required, as dogs need daily care, regular exercise, consistent training and routine veterinary attention. Reflect on the dog's temperament, age and energy levels to ensure a match with your lifestyle.
There are over 100 charities across Ireland that help with dog rescue and rehoming, ranging from large national organisations to local and specialised rescues doing excellent work in their communities.
Most reputable rescue organisations have a return policy and will take the dog back if the adoption doesn't work out. Always ask about this before adopting. They want to ensure the best match for both you and the dog, and will help find a more suitable home if needed.
Dog fostering involves providing temporary care for a rescue dog in your home while the charity finds them a permanent family. It's a shorter commitment than adoption, with most charities covering veterinary costs and supplies. It's an excellent way to help dogs and test if dog ownership suits your lifestyle.
