DECISION TO GET A DOG
Never buy on impulse and think carefully about your decision. The average lifespan of a dog is ten to fifteen years. Be prepared to take on the responsibility of caring for a dog. Consider the following:
Puppies can be adorable and irresistible bundles of fun. However, growing puppies require a lot of attention and a clear daily routine, which can be especially difficult if you have a busy life!
Does your lifestyle allow you to socialize and train your puppy?
This will require a serious commitment from you, especially in the first year. Puppies are not guaranteed to be obedient or toilet trained.
Do all family members want to get a dog?
To ensure that a dog becomes a lifelong member of the family, the decision to buy one must be made by all family members. It is important to consider not only how the dog will impact your life, but also whether your lifestyle is suitable for owning a dog.
Who will feed, walk, groom and clean up after the dog?
If this is going to be a family dog, everyone should be prepared to take care of it. Often one family member will end up being responsible for the dog’s needs, so discuss this ahead of time and agree on something. If you have children, don’t expect them to take on all the responsibility, but they should be expected to do some of the work.
Don’t buy a dog as a surprise gift.
A purebred puppy can be a wonderful gift if the giver has discussed the matter thoroughly with the recipient in advance. All of the previous considerations should be discussed with the recipient and should be the deciding factor in the breed selection. It is never appropriate to give a surprise puppy. Too often, puppies are unwanted and subsequently abandoned or neglected.
Have you prepared a budget for your dog’s care expenses?
This will include nutritious food, a municipal license, regular visits to the vet, bedding, etc. You should also consider things like training, regular grooming, etc. The amount will not be huge, but be prepared for additional expenses in the family budget.
Before you get a puppy or dog, make sure you can care for it and give it a happy, healthy life..
The next step is finding the right dog for you.
If you answered yes to all of the above questions, then you are ready to make sure your dog is happy and healthy.
Now the next step is what kind of dog should you get?