How Do I Find a Good Home for My Labrador Retriever?

Realizing that you need to find your Labrador Retriever a new home is not easy, but figuring out what to do next can be even harder. You might wonder, “How do I find a good home for my Labrador Retriever?” If you’re hoping for transparency into where your dog ends up, the best way to find them a new home might be by doing it yourself. Rehoming your dog will take more time and effort than surrendering them to a shelter, but it’s worth it for the peace of mind you’ll have to know your dog is safe and loved.

Finding a good home for your Labrador Retriever

You know your dog better than anyone, so when you’re looking for a good home for your Labrador Retriever, keep their personality and energy level in mind. For example, if your dog is a total couch potato, a family of runners might not be the best fit. In addition to the individual traits that will make an adopter particularly suited to your pet, there are some universal things to look for when choosing a family.

1. Ability to care for your dog

Charging a rehoming fee isn’t just about the money — it’s also a way to gauge someone’s ability to care for your dog. If a potential adopter balks at paying a reasonable rehoming fee, say $50 to $150, it’s worth considering how they’ll handle the financial responsibilities of pet care, like a $1,000 vet bill if your dog gets sick.

2. A history of providing proper vet care

If the potential adopter has had dogs in the past, ask for a vet reference. You don’t need to dig down into the details of the medical records, but if the vet isn’t willing to confirm that they provided proper care, that’s a red flag.

3. Willingness to keep the dog indoors

Some people might see a dog as an outdoor pet, which can result in them spending most of their lives in the backyard with limited human interaction. To get an honest answer from a potential adopter, it’s important to frame your question carefully. Instead of asking, “You won’t leave the dog outside alone, right?” try something like, “How much time do you think the dog will spend indoors versus outdoors?” This encourages a more genuine response.

Rehome your Labrador online

You don't have to go alone when looking for a home for your Labrador Retriever. Programs like Rehome by Adopt a Pet will provide you with information on how to screen potential adopters properly. You’ll also have access to online tools that will allow you to create a pet profile, accept applications from potential adopters, and much more. You are your pet’s best chance of finding a happy home, and it’s worth every bit of the effort.