10 Myths About Special Needs Dogs Debunked

Every year, countless special needs dogs are overlooked in shelters and rescues due to misconceptions and people not understanding their needs. These amazing animals, each with their own unique challenges, are often passed over by potential adopters who believe caring for them is too difficult. The truth? Special needs dogs aren’t broken; they’re just waiting for the right person to help them shine.

Let’s debunk some of the most common myths surrounding special needs dogs and discover the joy and resilience they bring to their families.

Myth #1: Special needs dogs are always sick or in pain.

Fact: While some special needs dogs may require ongoing medical care, many are healthy and live happy, comfortable lives with the right support. Yes, they may need special care and mobility devices, but these are just tools to help them live their best lives.

Conditions like blindness, deafness, or mobility challenges don’t necessarily cause pain. Adaptive equipment, like wheelchairs, ramps, or harnesses, can help improve their quality of life immensely. There can be a learning curve for first-time special needs pet parents, but once you establish a daily routine, it’s easy to master. It can take a few tries to feel comfortable getting your dog in and out of their wheelchair, but it will become second nature once you have it down. Don’t shy away from adopting a special needs pet, they may need a little more time and attention, but the love they have to give is so worth it.

Myth #2: They require too much time and money.

Fact: Caring for a special needs dog might involve an initial investment in equipment or veterinary care, but not all require expensive or time-consuming routines. Plus, many organizations offer financial assistance or low-cost care programs for special needs pets. With proper planning, their care can be manageable and rewarding.

Some pet insurance policies will cover the cost of your pet’s medical devices, including the cost of a wheelchair or prosthetic. If yours doesn’t, there are plenty of organizations that are available to help out. Here are a few of my favorites:

Don’t be discouraged; there are plenty of organizations willing to help.

Myth #3: Special needs dogs can’t be active or playful.

Fact: Adaptive tools such as wheelchairs or custom prosthetics allow many dogs to lead full, active lives. Dogs with mobility challenges can still enjoy hikes, play fetch, and even participate in sports like agility. Their love for life is often boundless, regardless of their physical limitations.

Your dog’s wheelchair isn’t a hindrance; it’s a mobility device allowing them to live their best life. Your dog can still do all their favorite activities while using a wheelchair, but most importantly, it gets them back to being able to spend more time with their family.

Myth #4: They don’t bond as well with humans.

Fact: The complete opposite is true, special needs dogs are known for forming incredibly deep and loyal connections with their caregivers. Because they rely on you so much and need your help to get them in and out of their cart, to give them medicine, express their bladders, and generally care for them, the bond that a special needs dog forms with their owner is often deeper than any other pet-human relationship. Their gratitude and resilience usually lead to some of the most rewarding relationships.

Myth #5: They’re hard to train.

Fact: Many special needs dogs are eager to learn and adapt quickly with patience and positive reinforcement. Whether it’s teaching a blind dog to navigate their environment or using hand signals with a deaf dog, training methods can be tailored to suit their needs.

Often, special needs dogs know that their wheelchair exists to help them – which means they take to their mobility cart very quickly. I have seen firsthand the experience of getting a dog into their wheelchair for the first time, and it’s incredible how many of them immediately start to run and play the second they realize that they can move with ease and comfort. It’s one of the most incredible and transformative experiences for the dog (and their families).

Myth #6: They won’t live long lives.

Fact: The lifespan of a special needs dog often depends more on their overall health and care than their specific condition. With love, attention, and proper veterinary support, many live just as long as any other dog. In fact, I’ve seen puppies born with conformational deformities and mobility challenges who use a dog wheelchair from birth right through their entire life.

A dog wheelchair will not shorten your dog’s life; in reality, it will keep your dog active, allowing them to maintain muscle tone, develop leg strength, and increase their endurance, which will extend their life.

Myth #7: They can’t integrate into a multi-pet household.

Fact: Special needs dogs can thrive in homes with other pets. In fact, other animals often provide companionship and emotional support.

It may take a bit for your other pets to get used to your dog’s new cart, especially if their toes get run over a few times. The best way to overcome any uncertainty is to keep the wheelchair in a place where your pets can sniff it and get it used to it being around. If anyone gets close to investigating or playing with your dog when they’re in their cart, use treats and lots of positive reinforcement – this will go a long way to help your dog get comfortable. It won’t take long for your wheelie pup to become part of the pack with proper introductions and accommodations.

Myth #8: Adopting one will be too emotionally challenging.

Fact: While it’s true that caring for a special needs dog can involve some emotional moments, the joy and fulfillment of giving them a second chance far outweigh the challenges. The love they give in return is immeasurable.

Caring for a handicapable dog can be a bit of an emotional roller coaster, but know that support systems exist. Check Facebook for dog wheelchair groups, like Dogs in Wheelchairs. These forums are filled with special needs dog parents who are ready and willing to answer questions, offer guidance, and help you navigate the tricky parts of caring for a wheelchair pup.

Myth #9: They’re not good with kids.

Fact: Special needs dogs, like any dog, have unique temperaments. Many are incredibly patient and gentle, making them wonderful companions for children. Teaching kids about their needs can also foster empathy and understanding.

Quite often, kids are more accepting of a dog’s differences. They are naturally empathetic and usually filled with questions because they want to know everything about their dog, including how to help. I recommend having honest conversations with your kids about your dog’s needs and any modifications they need to make in how they play with their dog. Let your kids know if there are certain parts of your dog that may hurt to touch and where it’s ok to pet them. Kids are quick to learn, and they will adapt to your dog’s mobility needs as quickly as possible.

Myth #10: They’re harder to adopt because they aren’t as loveable.

Fact: Every dog is loveable in their own way. Special needs dogs often have unforgettable personalities, and their resilience makes them some of the most inspiring companions. Yes, they can take longer for rescue groups to find them the perfect forever home, but this is exactly why we need to help shine a light on these incredible dogs.

We need to help and support rescues in our area and make sure that senior and special needs dogs are given every opportunity to find their perfect forever home.

Call to Action

If you’ve been considering adopting or fostering, why not give a special needs dog a chance? These resilient animals have so much love to give and can teach us all valuable lessons about determination, compassion, and joy.

Ready to get started? Visit The Dog Mobility Project’s resources for tips, tools, and support for caring for special needs dogs. Together, we can help every dog live life in motion.

Remember: Special needs dogs aren’t broken—they’re just waiting for someone to see their potential. Could that someone be you?

The Dog Mobility Project