A rescue dog moves in – and with it begins a journey that changes not only the dog, but also you as a person. It's a decision made with heart and mind, marked by love, curiosity, and yes – even a bit of uncertainty. Because many rumors, opinions, and hasty judgments circulate around the topic of rescue dogs.
Perhaps you've heard phrases like, "They're all traumatized," or, "A dog like that will never be truly clean." In this article, we'll debunk the seven most common myths about rescue dogs . And we'll show you how, with a little patience, honest knowledge, and the right care—for example, with our emmi-pet PRO ultrasonic toothbrush —you can ensure a safe, healthy, and trusting start.
Myth 1: “All rescue dogs are traumatized”
It's probably the most well-known phrase: "They've all experienced something terrible." And yes, of course there are dogs who have had difficult experiences. But not every rescue dog is disturbed or fearful.
Many dogs come from loving homes, were surrendered due to a move, or come from countries where street dogs were free but not necessarily abused. Some are curious, playful, affectionate—they simply need a chance to express themselves. Trauma is not a prerequisite for animal welfare.
What all dogs need, however, is security – and that starts with a calm routine, with loving care and small rituals that build trust. This is exactly where the emmi-pet PRO comes in. Its silent, vibration-free dental care gives your dog a new sense of well-being – completely stress-free. This is especially valuable for sensitive rescue dogs.
Myth 2: “You never know what you’re going to get”
Those who choose a dog from a breeder often believe they know the breed, personality, and behavior in advance. However, even purebred dogs only develop characteristics over time. Rescue dogs, on the other hand, are often closely monitored before being adopted – whether in foster homes or at an animal shelter.
Organizations provide honest insights: Is the dog compatible with other animals? Does it know a home? Does it have a hunting instinct? Most adoptions today are individual and well-thought-out . Of course, there's always some room for surprises—but that's true for every dog.
The important thing is: Be open. Observe, give space. And create regular grooming rituals , for example, with our emmi-pet PRO – because grooming means closeness, attention, and security.
Myth 3: “You can’t educate them”
This myth is persistent—and it's simply false. Rescue dogs can learn, often very quickly. Those who have had to forage outside or live day-to-day have developed a high level of adaptability. What they need is reliability, sensitive training, and time .
Important: Don't try too much at once. Don't follow a ten-commands-in-a-week plan. Trust first, then technique. Some dogs take weeks to even enter a home. Others learn how to walk on a leash within days. And with every task mastered together, your relationship grows.
Grooming can help build a bond. Our emmi-pet PRO ultrasonic toothbrush is perfect for beginners—completely silent and with maximum comfort.
Myth 4: “A dog from abroad is not a family dog”
Why not? Because he was born "on the streets"? Because he doesn't "know how"? The truth is: every dog has the potential to become a wonderful family pet—if he comes to a home that's ready to guide him.
Whether in Greece, Romania, or Spain, dogs from abroad are no less trainable, friendly, or adaptable. It's important that they are allowed to get to know their new environment in peace . This is especially true for children: clear rules, places to retreat, and sensitive interactions.
When your dog is allowed to feel you, is cared for, and has regular contact with you, the bond grows. And that's exactly what daily dental care routines with the emmi-pet PRO can create. Closeness without pressure. Care without fear.
Myth 5: “Animal protection dogs are always sick”
Another misconception that unsettles many: Is a rescue dog a permanent medical condition? No. Reputable organizations have dogs checked by a vet before rehoming them , and they are dewormed, vaccinated, and often even neutered. What remains is a certain residual risk—but this cannot be ruled out even with puppies from breeders.
It's important to focus on prevention from the start: paw care, coat checks, and dental health – all of these strengthen the immune system and promote long-term health. With our emmi-pet PRO, you can ensure effective dental cleaning without any effort. It removes plaque, has an antibacterial effect, and helps prevent gingivitis – gently and silently.
Myth 6: “They can’t stay alone”
No dog can do that – at first. Every dog, no matter where they come from, has to learn to be left alone. It's a training process that begins with a few minutes and gradually increases. Patience, consistency, and routine are key.
Rescue dogs who may have lived with other dogs for months often need a little more guidance. But they can learn to relax—if you show them you'll be back.
Here, too, grooming can help: If you establish a fixed ritual before leaving your dog alone – such as gentle cleaning with our emmi-pet PRO – this will become a reliable sign for your dog: "Nothing bad will happen after this."
Myth 7: “Animal protection dogs are not grateful”
Perhaps the most touching myth of all. The expectation is that a dog will "show gratitude" for being rescued. But that's a human notion. Dogs aren't grateful—they are living beings seeking security, affection, and stability. And when they get that, they give us their trust . Their affection. Their loyalty.
And sometimes that feels as strong as gratitude, but it's actually love. A bond based not on pity, but on reciprocity. Grooming, such as regular dental cleaning with our emmi-pet PRO, becomes a moment of trust for many dogs. And sometimes you'll be amazed at how much your dog looks forward to these very moments.
What counts is your willingness to see what is possible
A rescue dog is not a second-class dog. They are not a complete package with flaws—but rather a being full of potential, personality, and heart. What makes them special is not their origins, but their journey. And you can be a part of that journey.
Yes, it might not always be easy at first. Your dog might need more time to gain trust. Maybe they don't understand what you want right away. But every moment offers an opportunity to grow together. For every uncertainty you respond to with love, you'll receive a little bit of closeness in return. And for every ritual you develop together—be it taking a walk at the same time or gently brushing your teeth with our emmi-pet PRO—a sense of belonging, of "we," emerges.
The truth is: rescue dogs sometimes challenge you more – but they also touch you more deeply. Not because they're grateful, but because they demonstrate what true trust means. Trust that you've earned. Trust that grows with every positive experience – and that, over time, expresses itself in a bond that begins quietly and then grows stronger.
Our emmi-pet PRO ultrasonic toothbrush not only stands for dental hygiene, but also for a new kind of care: stress-free, touching, and close. It helps you show your dog every day: "I see you. I care for you. You are safe here."
If you're ready to embark on this journey—with heart, clarity, and helpful tools—you'll discover that the dog you've adopted doesn't just change your home. It changes your life.
