Having a dog is a huge responsibility and a big commitment. Unfortunately, it’s common for people to fall in love with the idea of getting a canine without taking into consideration the time and commitment it really takes to have one.
see also National Rescue Dog Day
Side note: If you don’t have much time to spend with your pet, then it might be best to look at getting an animal that doesn’t constantly require your attention. Or another option would be to not have any pets at all.
If you want to make sure that you’re ready to take care of a dog, here are some questions you should keep in mind before getting one:
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Can I afford a dog?
Canines aren’t free but neither are they cheap. They require feeding, worming, visits to the vet, vaccinations, and further expenses in case of accidents or illnesses. According to statistics, the cost of owning a dog can be estimated at around $1,500 to $9,900 per year.
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Is this the right time to get a dog?
A new dog will require time to settle into your home. Make sure you have enough time to make them feel accommodated.
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Do I have time?
Keep in mind you might have to sacrifice more time and energy to be with your dog. Canines need regular walks, training, vet appointments, etc. If a dog is left alone for a long time it can suffer from serious detachment and anxiety which will affect its mental and physical health.
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Do I have space for a dog?
It’s not a good idea to have a large dog living in a tiny apartment / house. Even small canines need space. Make sure your dog has somewhere quiet to relax and an area to play.
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Where will my dog come from?
Are you buying a puppy from a breeder or adopting one from rescue centers? NEVER EVER buy a dog online! If you’re buying from a breeder, make sure they are accredited.
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What breed is right for me?
The dog you choose should suit your routine and needs. Also, you need to think about your canine’s well-being and ensure that the dog is going to be living in the right environment. When choosing a dog breed, you should consider the following:
Temperament: some breeds are more energetic and they require constant exercise to avoid problem behavior. If you have children, you might want to find breeds that are naturally affectionate and protective of them.
Maintenance: this depends on how much time you are willing to dedicate to your animal and how much effort you are willing to put in. Remember, a dog’s mental requirements also must be met. It includes training, walks, and games in order to stop your dog from becoming anxious, depressed, or restless.
Life span: some dog breeds live much longer than others. An average lifespan of a dog is between 10 to 13 years, but some can live longer. But it also depends if you’re buying an adult dog or a puppy. An older dog, for example, will probably be house trained, and have some basic obedience training. However, there is a possibility that they may have bad past experiences, which results in behavioral problems or medical issues. Puppies, therefore, need to learn everything from you. While this shouldn’t necessarily be the main driving factor behind your breed choice, it’s important that you recognize the lifespan of any breed in advance.
Medical issues: it’s important to know the early signs to look for in a breed to try and help with these medical issues. It’s also worth noting that if you live in an apartment and there’s no elevator, this can cause a harmful effect on many breeds and their ability to walk correctly.
Remember, your dog will become a part of the family. So make sure to give them much love and you will get the same in return.
