Question about Rescue Dogs...

[Husky15]

I agree with Kay, she does sound ignorant on this subject.

Although she does make a point, I don't believe that shelters will sell dogs that are aggressive.

Look at all the wonderful rescue dogs here on PT, and there are lots!

[borzoimom]

Even though our shelter does not guarrentee that the dogs adopted will not be aggressive- they do however keep them them for 5-7 days to determine if it is likely.
I have had several shelter dogs. The only thing I have seen in general with mine were lack of training, lack of love and understanding, and general socializing. I will say all 3 housebroken very fast- its like they really knew the difference from outside and inside. Also after training, love and a secure place to live, they became the most affectionate of any of the dogs.
I would suggest taking a trainer with you to the shelter if your mother is really concerned about it. Even that is a streach though. Shelters will even euthanize a dog suspected of aggression.

[pitc9]

I think you should have your mom take you to a local shelter just to meet some of the dogs there to show her how sweet shelter/rescue dogs can be!

Not saying that all shelter dogs are angels, some have room for improvement {cough... cough...Buddy }
Both of mine are rescues and have their "issues" as ALL dogs have! You can buy a dog from a breeder and it may have "issues" that are the same!
My Sierra suffers from separation anxiety, that's easily handled by crating her if she's ever home alone, or in my case... just adopt another Dog to keep her company! Buddy is a shelter dog that many people would not have adopted and would have been put to sleep because he needed a lot of TLC when he was adopted. But they told me this and I knew what I was getting myself into. What I was getting myself into was getting the worlds greatest Body Guard that has a few quirks . But again...the shelter was up front and honest with me, and I knew his issues.
Please inform your mom about the wonderful homeless dogs that are living their lives in shelters and that are just waiting for a loving family to save them. It's the most rewarding thing in the world!

Like the saying goes.... Why buy when shelter dogs die.

[GreyhoundGirl]

It not only depends on the dog, but also, many dogs will be VERY different at the shelter than when you take them home. I remember Jenny was very timid at the pound, she didn't eat anything, she was pretty much a different dog.

Many wonderful dogs are rescues, actually, I think (JMO ) rescue dogs are actually better in personality than non-rescues.

Some will bite, but it would be irresponsible for the shelter not to tell you so before you adopt.

IMO, what you mom says is not true. ( I'm not making much sense, am I? ) some dogs will bite. Some rescue dogs will bite. But ALL dogs will bite if they are not pleased with their circumstances. You could get a dog from a breeder that would react to storms the same way a rescue would.