Perfect Match
ARF has developed the perfect match system to make it really easy for you to find the best dog for you and your family.
Each dog that comes into foster care is temperament tested and assessed against some basic criteria. The dogs are then grouped into one of three categories, with each category being represented by a colour:
Bronze
Dogs in this category have sound temperaments but will have some quirks that need ironing out by their new family. Bronze dogs are usually active and require daily training and guidance by their new owner. Bronze dogs may be dogs that have had a difficult start in life as they may have never received any training, been neglected, under socialised or even abused. Bronze dogs can also be some of the most rewarding dogs to adopt.
* have access to and are willing to seek professional training advice if required (such as one on one training)
* have solid 5 foot minimum fences
* can provide daily exercise and daily training for your new dog
* have owned more than one dog before or completed training with previous dogs
* have another dog in your home that has no behaviour problems
* do not have young children in your home
Silver
Dogs in this category will need some basic obedience training (especially if you have children), will need daily exercise and will generally need time to adjust to your new home. You may need to train your new silver dog not to jump up for example, or pull on the lead.
* are able to provide daily exercise outside the home
* have owned your own dog before (not a childhood family dog)
* are willing to go to obedience club if required
* may have another dog in your home
* are willing to allow your new dog time to settle into the home and understand the dog may need to be trained not to jump up, pull on the lead etc.
To help new puppy owners with training and socialisation skills, all ARF puppies come with a $100 contribution towards a puppy training course included in the adoption fee.
Gold
* have another dog in your home
* are looking for your first dog
* are looking for a dog that can adapt quickly and easily with minimal training at home or at a local dog club if required
* only have time to exercise your dog outside the home 3-4 times per week