Returning a dog I adopted to the shelter because she isn't the "right fit?"

[Mr_onedayyet]

It honestly sounds like the better choice for you and the dog is to return her. If it's not a good situation, both of you will be unhappy.

[choochray]

You did bite off more than you can chew. Please, please do your research before you decide to adopt a dog. When deciding to adopt a dog, think about the commitment. Why do you want a dog, what type of dog are you looking for? Hiking buddy, lap dog? What is your lifestyle like, and what type of dog may be best suited for you. No matter where you get your dog, young or old. They will need training, consistent training based on positive reinforcement. Can you provide the structure and routine your dog will need? Also the expense does not end at adoption, that's where it begins. Food, vet appointments, training, time commitment.... Most shelters will take dogs back, or have some type of adoption guarantee. Please remember there is no such thing as a perfect dog. But they can be perfect for you! If you give them loving guidance, and a loving home. In return you will get unconditional love! So you made a mistake, take the pup back to the shelter, give them as much information as you can, why it didn't work, behaviors, what they like what they don't like. This info will help the next adopter make a more informed decision. And if you are fortunate enough to go to a shelter where you can meet with an adoption counselor. Take advantage of their Knowledge, listen, asks questions, sleep on it. It may take many visits to find a dog that is a good fit for you. Last but not least, please adopt! Best of luck!

[ms murrr]

Hi OP - It sounds like you are really trying to do the right thing here. It really does sound like you don't have the right home for Toffee.

I work in animal rescue, so here's my advice: Call the shelter and ask them what will happen with Toffee if you bring her back. If they are a progressive shelter that isn't under a lot of space pressure, they should tell you that they will basically treat this as a foster. You took her home, learned a lot about her behavior and needs, and now they can use that information to place Toffee in a home that'll be a better match. (One where there's a yard, or someone who works at home, etc etc.)

If that isn't what's likely to happen, if she's going to face a more dire situation, I would recommend trying to find a local rescue group that can help rehome Toffee.

In any case, a small, cute, young dog shouldn't have too much trouble finding a new home - so do it now, before she gets bigger and older, and less adoptable.

Sorry you're going through this. Please don't beat yourself up.

[ms murrr]

And I just saw that this thread is several years old. Hopefully things worked out well for Toffee in that time!