Getting a dog is so exciting, but you can’t just get one without thinking of the consequences. Of course, being a dog owner is amazing, but only if you’re doing it for the right reasons. You need to think of a few things in detail before you get a dog. The following 8 things should start you off:
- Do You Have the Time Needed to Care for a Dog?
Dogs take a lot of time to take care of. You haven’t just got to think about the time it takes to walk them. You will need to play with them, groom them, and spend time training them. You might think that walking the dog is enough, but they are pack animals so they need a lot of attention. Depending on the breed you get, they’ll need varying amounts of attention. Smaller dogs may not need much walking, but they will still need attention.
2. Do You Have the Money?
When you get a dog, you vow to look after them for life. This means you’ll need to be prepared to pay their vet bills, whatever the problem may be. You’ll also need dog accessories and other essentials. If you struggle for cash fairly often, then it probably isn’t a good idea to get a dog.
3. Is Your Situation Likely to Change?
How likely is your situation to change? If you could lose hours or money at work, you should make sure you can still afford your dog. It wouldn’t be fair on your dog to give them away when you can’t afford them.
4. Have You Researched the Right Breed for Your Lifestyle?
Different breeds would be suited to different lifestyles. If you aren’t very active, you’ll more than likely prefer a smaller dog that doesn’t need much exercise. If you love going out on walks, a larger dog that you can really exercise would suit you. However, you must also consider the space that you have at home.
5. Will You Train Your Dog?
Training your dog is really important. If you don’t train your dog, it’ll end up confused about who the pack leader is. A confused dog is not a happy dog. A dog who knows who the pack leader is is a happy dog!
6. What Will You Do When You Want to Take a Holiday?
Do you have someone to take care of your dog while you’re away? If not, you’ll need to put them in kennels. Are you comfortable with that?
7. Are You and Your Family on the Same Page?
Anybody you live with should be on the same page as you. You should all want a dog and be willing to chip in when it comes to chores. You all need to be on the same page when it comes to training too, if you want it to be effective!
8. Should You Adopt or Get a Puppy?
Getting a puppy is the norm, but most people don’t realise adopting is an option. You could adopt a dog in need and give it a better home, which might also give you a great sense of well being.
With these 8 points, you should be able to make the best decision for your family!
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