The prospect of owning a dog is an exciting one. That is why so many of us dream of buying a puppy and taking them into our hearts and homes. If you are considering buying a dog, there are some considerations that you will need to think about before you do so. While you may have the best intentions of giving your new canine pal a great home, you do need to be sensible in your approach to ensure that you are a responsible pet owner. After all, you want your new puppy friend to be happy in their new home and life with you and your family.
If you are like me and you spend hours looking at little puppies online, you will probably have your ideal breed of dog in mind. Our ideal breed is usually dependent on factors such as size, temperament and how often they need to be exercised. However, you need to carefully consider how your chosen breed of dog will fit into your existing lifestyle and family dynamic.
Why Do You Want a Dog?
In short, what are your motivations for purchasing a pooch? Is your puppy pal going to be a present or gift for your children? Will the dog be considered a companion for you? Think about your motivations of wanting to bring a dog into your home before you embark on a big commitment. Dogs have a long life span, so be prepared for 10 years (maybe more) of commitment to your pet.
Picking Your Perfect Pooch
Dogs come in all shapes and sizes. What is more, dog breeds are varied, so you need to make sure that the dog you choose is suited to your home and lifestyle. Here are some things that you should consider before you purchase a new puppy pal:
- How much exercise your new puppy needs
- Do you have time to regularly exercise your puppy to their specific requirements?
- Is the breed of dog suited around families with children?
- Do you have the space within your home to accommodate the size of your chosen breed? Of course, large breeds will need a lot of space and a large garden to roam around.
A Financial Commitment
It is imperative to remember that a puppy is an ongoing commitment. Not only will you have an initial purchase cost of the dog, but there are more ongoing costs which can mount up over time. Financially, you need to be in a relatively stable position before taking on a beloved pet pooch. Think about all the things a dog needs to ensure that they are comfortable and happy:
- Quality food
- Treats
- Vet bills
- Pet insurance
- Doggie beds
- Blankets
- Training
- Grooming costs
- Medical emergencies
Male or Female?
While this may sound a little odd, you do need to remember that the sex of a dog is important. Males tend to have very dominant characteristics and personalities whereas female dogs are more affectionate and home-loving. Of course, this is a very broad generalisation and how you care for your puppy will have a significant impact on its personality traits.
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