adopt a dog

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "adopt a dog" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, you could say: "My parents decided to adopt a dog after their old dog passed away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

I had no intention to adopt a dog.

The New York Times

Those in one group were told to adopt a dog or cat.

The New York Times

Dolly Parton has offered to adopt a dog that was left behind at Glastonbury.

The Guardian

And so should you -- adopt a dog, I mean, not drop by my house.

The New York Times - Magazine

Once finally settled, they can do something else too permanent for their nomadic military years: adopt a dog.

The New York Times

If you guys can adopt a dog, even if they don't make it on the big screen, they'll be big stars at your house".

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

14 human-written examples

The Interior Department will be the first federal agency to adopt a dog-friendly policy, The Washington Post reports.

Huffington Post

* These young Papillon mixes are available for adoption from Adopt-a Dog shelter in Armonk, NY.

Huffington Post

They adopted a dog, Copper.

The New York Times

The young daughter adopts a dog, which seems to be a young man in a costume.

The New York Times - Arts

Eventually, he adopted a dog and a pet magpie, and toted an accordion.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When encouraging someone to get a pet, use "adopt a dog" to promote ethical pet ownership and reduce the demand for dogs from unethical breeders. Frame it as a responsible and compassionate choice.

Common error

Avoid using "adopt a dog" when referring to purchasing a dog from a breeder or pet store. Adoption specifically refers to taking in a dog from a shelter or rescue organization. Using the wrong term misrepresents the source and ethical implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "adopt a dog" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the action of taking legal responsibility for a dog from a shelter or rescue organization. It suggests a deliberate choice to provide a home and care for an animal in need, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "adopt a dog" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase that refers to taking responsibility for a dog from a shelter or rescue organization. Ludwig confirms its widespread use across various contexts, including News & Media and Wiki sources. It’s important to use the phrase correctly to distinguish it from buying a dog from a breeder. When using the phrase, consider its ethical implications and promote responsible pet ownership.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take in a dog

Replaces "adopt" with a more informal verb, implying bringing a dog into one's home.

rescue a dog

Highlights the act of saving a dog from a difficult situation, often implying a shelter or undesirable circumstance.

get a dog from a shelter

Specifies the source of the dog, emphasizing adoption from a rescue organization.

provide a home for a dog

Focuses on the act of offering shelter and care to a dog in need.

welcome a dog into your family

Emphasizes the integration of the dog into the household and the emotional connection.

foster a dog

Implies temporary care for a dog, usually through a rescue organization, with the possibility of adoption.

become a dog owner through adoption

Highlights the transition to pet ownership via the adoption process.

rehome a dog

Suggests finding a new home for a dog that was previously owned.

give a dog a forever home

Emphasizes the permanence of the adoption and the commitment to long-term care.

offer refuge to a dog

Focuses on providing safety and protection to a dog.

FAQs

What is the difference between adopting a dog and buying a dog?

To "adopt a dog" means to take in a dog from a shelter or rescue organization, whereas buying a dog means purchasing one from a breeder or pet store. Adopting is often seen as a more ethical choice.

Where can I go to "adopt a dog"?

You can "adopt a dog" from local animal shelters, rescue organizations, or adoption events in your community.

What are the benefits of "adopting a dog" over buying one?

Adopting a dog can save a life, reduce overcrowding in shelters, and often costs less than buying from a breeder. You're also less likely to support unethical breeding practices.

What should I consider before deciding to "adopt a dog"?

Before you "adopt a dog", consider your lifestyle, living situation, and financial resources to ensure you can provide a suitable and loving home.