Things To Think About Before Getting A Dog

If you've been wanting to get a dog first of all make sure you can answer all the points below. Having a cat is a very different kind of commitment to becoming a dog owner. On average a dog can live up to 12 years plus, so you have to be sure that this is the right move for you. First of all why do you want a dog? Is it for companionship, for your child, for protection or perhaps to breed from? Be honest with yourself as to the real reason as it will help you to answer the next set of questions.

Can You Afford a dog?

Sit down and list everything you will need to provide for your new pet on a daily and weekly basis. Be realistic about the price of dog food. If you're going to buy a big dog obviously you will be spending more on food. Of course the better quality food will be more expensive, but cost effective as your pets health will be better for it in the long run. Think about vet bills and whether you can afford those visits that you didn't plan for. If you're starting with a puppy then you will have all of the start up fees to pay for. Neutering, worming and vaccinations will come with follow up consultations, which won't be cheap. Then you have the other accidents and illnesses you didn't see coming. Who knows when any of us will fall ill? Then think about pet supply costs. From dog bowls, leads and collars to their toys and grooming equipment.

Is Your Home Big Enough?

If you are living in a one bedroom flat with no garden then obviously a Doberman will be out of the question. If you have a house with a garden then think about how safe is your garden? Will you need to spend a lot of money on fencing and gates? Then think about where your local dog parks are and if you will have the time and energy to give your dog a daily walk.

Your Time.

Walking, grooming and playing are all time consuming activities. A dog may also suffer from separation anxiety if they are left alone for too long, so think about whether anyone will be around in the daytime. Will your dog get a proper walk? Will they receive enough attention and interaction with you? Don't be cruel be honest. If you know that you work long hours, travel a lot and have a busy social life then a dog is not the pet for you. Get a fish.

Do Your Homework

Research the type of dog you want to have. Find out about their personality and temperament, their feeding habits etc. Find out precisely what you'll be bringing home. For example don't get a small snappy type of dog when you have young kids or an Alsation when you can't give it proper daily exercise.

Dog Training

This is a particularly important question to think about, especially if you're bringing home a puppy. Dog training and socialisation takes time and patience. There is no way you can leave a puppy on their own for long periods of time. Will you be able to commit to a continual programme of training? You may need to invest in puppy training classes as well, so think about that before you bring a puppy home.

All of these questions have to be thought about and truthfully answered. Of course the rewards of owning a dog are that you will receive LOVE, LOVE, and LOVE. However you must be able to give back that love and care 100% of the time.