Should You Adopt A Dog For Christmas?

On the JJ Barnes Blog, adopting a dog for Christmas can help ease the RSPCA’s rehoming crisis, but only if you’re ready to offer a lifelong, loving home—your commitment can change a dog’s life, just like it did for our rescue, Molly.

As the Christmas season nears, animal shelters across the UK are preparing for a tough January, when the RSPCA reports that it is 42% higher for dogs entering their care compared to those being adopted. This rehoming crisis is worsened by a heartbreaking trend: many dogs adopted or gifted during the festive season are returned to shelters shortly after Christmas, often due to impulsive decisions or unmet expectations.

Adopting a dog before Christmas can be a wonderful way to give a rescue a loving home and ease the strain on shelters—but only if you’re truly committed to keeping them for life. I learned this firsthand when we adopted our dog Molly, a rescue who brought endless joy to our home, but her journey required patience and dedication.

Here’s why adopting now can make a difference, along with tips from Carolyn Menteith, behaviourist at Tails.com, to ensure you and your new companion thrive, provided you’re ready for the long haul.

Why Adopt Before Christmas?

Shelters face overwhelming pressure in January, as post-holiday surrenders spike. Dogs given as Christmas gifts or adopted without careful thought are often returned when the novelty wears off or the responsibilities become clear. By adopting before the holiday rush, you can give a dog a stable, loving home and help shelters manage the influx.

However, this decision should never be made lightly—adopting a dog is a lifelong commitment, not a festive whim. Molly’s transition to our home showed me how rewarding it can be to give a rescue a second chance, but it’s not a choice to make unless you’re prepared to stick with it.

The Importance of Commitment

Rescue dogs often come with emotional or behavioral challenges due to past trauma or neglect. When we brought Molly home, she was shy and uncertain, requiring months of patience to build her trust. Returning a dog after a short time can deepen their insecurities, making it harder for them to bond in the future. Before adopting, ask yourself:

• Are you ready to care for a dog for 10–15 years or more?
• Can you provide the time, resources, and patience needed for a rescue to adjust?
• Is your lifestyle suited to a dog’s needs, including exercise, training, and vet care?

If the answer is yes, adopting before Christmas can be a beautiful way to start a lifelong bond while helping shelters avoid the January crisis. If not, consider supporting shelters through volunteering or donations instead.

Tips for Welcoming a Rescue Dog

To set your rescue dog up for success and ensure a lasting relationship, follow these tips inspired by experts and my experience with Molly:

Create a Safe Space
Designate a quiet, comfortable area in your home where your dog can retreat. A cozy bed in a low-traffic corner, away from holiday noise or visitors, helps them feel secure. Molly loved her blanket-filled nook, which gave her a safe spot to decompress during her first weeks.

Build a Consistent Routine
Rescue dogs thrive on predictability. Feed, walk, and play at the same times daily to create stability. Molly’s anxiety eased once she learned to expect her morning walk and evening cuddle, helping her trust that she was safe with us.

Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward good behavior with treats, praise, or gentle affection to build confidence. Avoid punishment, as it can reinforce fear in rescue dogs. When Molly responded to a command, a soft “good girl” and a treat worked wonders to encourage her.

Go at Their Pace
Let your dog approach new experiences—like meeting people or exploring the house—on their terms. Crouch to their level, avoid direct eye contact, and keep interactions calm. Molly was nervous around strangers, so we introduced her to new faces slowly, ensuring she felt safe.

Invest Quality Time
Spend time together through walks, play, or simply sitting nearby to foster a bond. I found that quietly reading near Molly helped her get comfortable without pressure. These moments build trust and show your commitment to their well-being.

Socialize Gradually
Introduce new people, pets, or places slowly, watching for signs of stress like cowering or growling. If your dog seems overwhelmed, give them a break. We took weeks to introduce Molly to our neighbor’s dog, starting with short, neutral meetings to build her confidence.

Plan for a Lifetime
Research the dog’s breed, age, and needs to ensure they fit your lifestyle. Budget for food, vet visits, and training, and be prepared for challenges. When we first got her, Molly’s energy meant daily walks were non-negotiable, but her love made every effort worthwhile. Now she’s older, she values taking life at a slower pace.

Adopting with Intention

If you’re ready to adopt, visit your local RSPCA or shelter to meet dogs in need. Take time to understand their personalities and histories to find a match for your home. When we met Molly, her timid eyes told us she needed a patient family, and we were ready to be that for her. Adopting before Christmas can give a dog a fresh start and reduce shelter strain—but only if you’re committed to their lifelong care.

A Final Plea

This Christmas, consider adopting a rescue dog, but do so with your eyes wide open. A dog isn’t a holiday accessory; they’re a family member who deserves a forever home. By choosing adoption with genuine commitment, you can transform a dog’s life and help ease the RSPCA’s rehoming crisis. Molly’s wagging tail reminds me every day that the effort is worth it—but it’s a promise you must be ready to keep.