5 Reasons Why Dogs are Abandoned
Aint I nothing but a pound dog
What You Can Do About It?
Pug, Dalmatian, Alaskan Malamute, Basenji, Bull Terrier, Dachshund… what do these beautiful purebred dogs have in common? Sadly, they all have dedicated rescue sites — and they’re just a few among countless others.
This raises the question:
How do such wonderful dogs — some costing thousands of dollars — end up abandoned or in rescue shelters? and the 5 Reasons Why Dogs are Abandoned
The answer is both heartbreaking and enlightening. Here are five of the most common reasons why dogs are surrendered or abandoned — most of which are preventable.
🐾 1. Behavioural Issues
This is by far the most common reason.
Dogs are not born “bad” — behavioural problems are often the result of unmet needs or lack of proper training and structure. While severe cases like aggression and biting are concerning, the most frequent issues are:
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Excessive barking
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Destructiveness
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Toileting problems
Most of these behaviours can be solved with patience, consistency, and the help of a qualified trainer.
👉 Read more about solving behavioural problems
🏡 2. Moving House
A frequent reason owners give is:
“The landlord doesn’t allow pets” or “there’s no space in the new place.”
While these may sound like valid reasons, responsible pet owners should do everything possible to rehome their pet, rather than surrender it to a shelter.
Interestingly, over half of people who surrender their dog due to moving also report behavioural issues — suggesting the move may not be the only factor.
👶 3. Lifestyle Changes
Life happens — but pets are for life.
Major life events such as:
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Having a baby
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Getting divorced
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Starting a new job
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Losing a job
…can change how much time or energy someone can give their pet. However, dogs aren’t something you can simply “pause.” Pet ownership is a lifelong commitment that requires planning for the unexpected.
🤧 4. Health Issues or Allergies
Some families find out they are allergic to dogs after adoption.
While this can be challenging, it’s not always a deal-breaker. There are many hypoallergenic dog breeds that shed less and trigger fewer reactions.
👉 Explore allergy-friendly breeds
Proper planning and breed research before adoption can help avoid these issues entirely.
🧓 5. Owner Illness or Aging
One of the saddest reasons for dog abandonment is when an elderly or unwell owner can no longer care for their pet.
Often, these dogs are older themselves and get passed over by potential adopters. They are grieving too and deserve love and dignity.
Thankfully, there are organisations like:
👉 Golden Oldies Animal Rescue
…that offer fostering and rehoming services specifically for senior pets.
💰 Bonus Reason: Cost
Let’s not forget the financial commitment of dog ownership.
Beyond the initial purchase or adoption fee, there are ongoing expenses:
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Food
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Vet visits
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Grooming
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Emergency care
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Boarding
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Toys and bedding
Serious illnesses or injuries can be very expensive — unless pet insurance is in place.
💡 Final Thoughts: The Dog Is Not the Problem
Dogs are not disposable. They don’t ask to be abandoned or misunderstood — they are simply the victims of unprepared or overwhelmed owners.
Most abandonment cases stem from a lack of planning, not the dog’s actions.
📋 Plan. Prepare. Choose Wisely.
Before bringing a dog into your life, take time to consider your:
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Lifestyle (now and in the future)
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Living situation
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Time commitment
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Financial capacity
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Energy and breed match
Start with this helpful tool:
👉 Pet Breed Selector Tool
💛 Give your dog what they need from the beginning, and they’ll give you unconditional love for life.
before-and-after-pics-of-adopted-dogs
Author bio:
This article has been provided by Liz Walden. Liz has a passion for all things cat and dog, and 11 years ago, was one of the first in Australia to bring Pet Insurance to the market. She has headed up Petsecure Pet Insurance www.petsecure.com.au for the past 11 years, and is committed to promoting and supporting responsible pet ownership, and the amazing work done by rescue groups around Australia, who work to promote a better life for all animals.