Before You Get A Dog - Honestly Ask Yourself: Should You Get A Dog?

While there's no denying that it's a really nice experience to come home at the end of the day to someone who thinks you're wonderful, is never critical and loves you unconditionally, it doesn't come without a price tag! You will be that adoring pet's lifeline for every aspect of its emotional ...While there's no denying that it's a really nice experience to come home at the end of the day to someone who thinks you're wonderful, is never critical and loves you unconditionally, it doesn't come without a price tag! You will be that adoring pet's lifeline for every aspect of its emotional and physical well-being for many years to come. It pays to think long and hard about whether you can fulfill this responsibility.

Dogs not only love companionship, but "need" your human interaction with them if they are to thrive.

Do you think you're prepared for these obligations? You do realize that there is a huge difference between having a dog as a pet versus - say say a hampster, goldfish, or even a cat - right!

Okay, so after thinking deeply about should you get a dog, you made the decision to adopt a new friend - so it's time to move ahead.

If you’re like most people who are searching for a new puppy or adult dog, you may be overwhelmed by the options. Which breed is best for you? What size dog will be most suited to your environment? Should you consider a puppy or perhaps look into adopting an adult?

Don’t worry! When you make that trip to the dog shelter or dog breeder, you’ll most likely be met with a pair of eyes that will all but make that decision for you. But there are a few things you may consider before you bring your new companion home.

In what type of environment do you live? Life in an apartment may not be an ideal situation for a larger dog. To be sure, you will discover this the first time that your dog joyfully wags his tail, knocking the family photos off the end table and resulting in a noise complaint from the neighbor.

Perhaps a smaller dog would be better for your setting, such as a Yorkshire Terrier or a Bichon Frise. Don’t be alarmed! You’re not required to adopt a pet who will fit in your briefcase! Even a medium sized dog such as a Cocker Spaniel- Poodle mix will be happy in your home.

If you’re fortunate to live in a larger home with room to play, your options are almost unlimited.

Take into account other factors now - do you have a family who can commit to assisting with playtime? The choice of breed will determine how much exercise he needs on a daily basis, and is not necessarily related to size.

Is your yard fenced in, or will your dog likely spend more time indoors than out? A large dog will thrive outside with room to play and stretch, but a medium or small dog will do just fine in your home.

Retrievers love the great outdoors, and your retriever will be the happiest dog in town if you provide plenty of love in the form of running around the yard with him.

Rottweilers are actually quite docile dogs, and are wonderful family protectors. They are large and also require space outdoors - and plenty of mud.

While you’re thinking about your family, consider the kids! There are breeds of dogs who may not get along with children very well. Some breeds have a reputation for not enjoying the company of small and loud tail-pullers, including Cocker Spaniels. However, most dogs will love your children, particularly if you select a mixed breed which will allow you to seek characteristics of certainly breeds of dog in the bloodline.

Now consider your schedule.

It’s crucial that your schedule and the needs of your dog are a good match. If you’ve got a small dog, and you live in an apartment in the city, for example, you’ll need to be sure that you can provide plenty of time for walks, or as a second option, can hire someone to check on your friend during the day.

Is your dog’s breed notorious for shedding? You won’t be a happy pet owner if you come home each night and must vacuum ceiling to floor. But most importantly, your schedule must allow for any needs related to your dog’s age. As you know, a puppy will require much more time, attention, and housebreaking than an adult dog will need. To avoid much frustration later, be sure that you have the time commitment now.

Indeed, choosing your new friend does not have to be an overwhelming task! Spend a few minutes in research on each breed you’re interested in, and perhaps talk to other pet owners who have similar lifestyles to your's. You’re already committed to caring for your pet so that he may enjoy a happy, healthy life. Just sit back now, lock eyes with your new best friend, and let your pet choose you!