***Collaborative post***
Some people might think that the prospect of bringing a dog into their family is “no big deal” and that they can wing it along the way. However, that’s an easy way to set yourself up for more work than you’re ready to take on. Here, we’re going to look at the questions you should ask yourself to determine whether you’re really ready for a new member of the family.
Will you want them a decade down the line?
Bringing a dog home is a long term investment. They’re likely to be with you for up to fifteen years. As such, it should never be a spur of the moment thought nor a poorly planned treat to get a dog. You should also make sure that you’re fixed where you are, and not planning to move around too much over the coming years.
Is your home suitable for them?
Just as you would have to make your home suitable for a toddler running around the place, you have to make your home suitable for pets, too. Aside from buying all of the supplies that they’re going to need, you need to consider potential household dangers. This can mean ensuring they can’t get to electric wiring, that the garden is secure, and that you don’t have any toxins lying around, household or plant.
Do you have the time to take care a dog?
Looking after a dog is a lot of work. You need to feed them, you need to walk them, you need to bathe them, groom them, play with them, and more. Some dogs have fewer demands on your time than others, but all of them will require time and attention. Make sure you understand your dog’s needs and whether or not you can fit them into your schedule before you get one.
Are you willing to do your homework?
How do you discipline a dog effectively? How do you train them to heel? How do you deal with separation anxiety? You can never tell what particular issues are going to crop up during your relationship with a dog, but you can rest assured that it’s very rarely smooth. Be willing to do your homework, whether via the internet, a dog magazine, or working with professionals. You’re going to have to do some troubleshooting at some point and be patient while finding your answers.
Do you have the budget for a dog?
Aside from the fact that dogs require a lot of accommodations from you, you also have to keep in mind that they also require quite a bit of money. This is especially true at first when you have to pay for all of their supplies as well as those beginning vet costs. Find out the cost of owning a dog and make sure you can make room for it.
If the answer to any of the questions above is “no”, then you should think about getting an easier pet for now. Dogs require and deserve love, attention, and care that goes beyond most pets.
