So You're Still Considering Dog Ownership?

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     Are you still on the fence about buying a dog? You are almost there, but you still can make that final decision. Taking care of a dog is a rewarding, but big undertaking. You will be responsible for the well-being of another living thing. It will depend on you for everything that is needed. In addition, unless there are other family members that are willing to help you with these responsibilities, you will be on your own. Before you make your final decision, consider a few of the following things first.

In or Out?

Will your dog be an outside dog or an inside dog? In all actuality, if you own a dog, you really should keep it inside. Although there are those that disagree with this, but it is for the well-being of the dog. Sure, there are people that have a space for dogs in their yards. The dog is fenced in and may be on a chain in some cases, but is this really fair to the dog?

If you aren't totally convinced that you want to have an inside dog, maybe you will consider a combination of the two? Possibly, you might have the dog stay in a designated area for a certain amount of time during the day and stay on the inside during the night. This might work really well for anyone that has to work during the day. The dog is in a protected, restricted area on your property until you return from work. At that time, the dog is allowed into your home.

There are other factors that you may consider when it comes to your dog's housing conditions. During the winter months, a doghouse can be extremely cold. It can also be just as bad during a heavy thunderstorm. These are just some of the things that you should consider before you purchase a dog.

Dog Expenses

Can you afford the expenses of taking care of a dog? Consider the expense of daily food. You dog will have to go to the vet and get shots. Do you plan to get your cute little dog spayed or neutered? These are all normal things expenses that relate to owning a dog. What happens when the dog is sick or has a disease or illness that requires a lot of money. Are you financially able to spend large sums of money on the family pet? In addition, do you have the right mindset to spend large sums of money on the family dog? These are things that you should think about before you make the decision to purchase a family dog.

I'm Not Walking Fluffy!

Unfortunately, dogs have to be constantly walked. Are you willing to take the time out of your busy schedule to walk your dog? You had better be, or you will find cute little dog surprises all through your home. Share the responsibility with another family member, but it must be done.

All in all, you must consider these things before you make your final decision about owning a dog. They are very loving creatures, but they need you to give a lot of love and care. If you aren't able to provide this care, then maybe you aren't ready right now to own a dog.