First, we would never discourage anyone from adopting from a shelter. We recommend taking your time and get to know the dog as best you can. We want those dogs to have permanent forever homes too.
The main difference is our dogs are in everyday homes, we learn more about their behavior, health, and personality because they are in an enviornment just like yours. We hold each dog long enough to know if they may have contracted a disease while in the shelter. In most cases, upon exam by our veterinarians, we find out if the dog may have any long-term health concern or illness. In those cases, we always share anything we know about the dog.
We get to know the dogs habits, likes and dislikes and do our best to make good matches. If once approved to adopt, and we believe your situation may not be the best for the dog you want to adopt, we'll be honest enough to tell you. We are not only looking out for our dogs best interests but our adopters too.