Our last 2 dogs have been rescues...same breed that we’ve always owned, and in our opinion the traits of the breed are so predictable you sort of know exactly what you’re getting.
But 1st rescue was from the SPCA, and this past time was from one of the breed specific rescue organizations.
If/when we adopt another dog, I’d use the breed specific rescue organization again, even though it is a bit of a hassle (as the writer says, there’s applications, home visits, a higher fee than the shelters.) But the advantage is the dog’s been vetted by being fostered and you know what issues the dog does or more importantly doesn’t have. An SPCA or county animal shelter can give you a little info, but not the same as getting the info from someone who has fostered the animal.
We love our dogs but they are not human. We have 1 at a time and they live in the house with us. I even make their dog food but I’ll be darned if I would go through home inspections, etc to get one. There are just too many needy dogs out there to subject ourselves to that.
We have found that there is a strong commonality with rescued dogs in that they seem to understand the favor you have done for them and quite often become obviously loyal and appreciative.
If you are considering adoption and have a secure yard, you may want to look into an agency that places dogs who have been trained as service companions, but didn't make the grade for what is usually a very simple flaw such as a tendency to chase squirrels which makes them deficient as a guide dog.
Heck! I had to write an essay to get my last Golden!