Bringing home a new furry family member is definitely exciting! Before doing so, make sure to do your research. If you find yourself yearning for a new dog addition to the family, here are some things to consider before sealing the deal:
Do I have time to train a puppy?
- Dog training is important and best done when done early on in a dog’s life. Laying down good foundations in any human-to-human relationship is of the utmost importance and the same goes for a dog-human relationship. Be sure that you are able to set aside time not only to bond and cuddle with a new pup, but to train it properly.
Can I afford to own a new dog?
- We like to compare dog ownership to parenthood, as both are similar in a lot of aspects. One way they are similar is the expense! Taking care of dogs costs money! Before deciding to bring home your new furry companion, consider the following:
Food
- Wet food, raw food, dry kibble or a mix of everything
- How much food this breed will eat
- Source and cost of food
Veterinarian
- Your trusted vet’s professional fee
- How often will new dog need to visit the vet
- Vaccination/deworming schedule and costs
Dog items
- Leashes and collars
- A crate, x-pen or a sturdy kennel/cage
- Dog bowls
- Potty training mats and cleaning supplies
- Sturdy rubber toys
Will I be able to endure the teething stage?
- Be prepared to go through the teething stage. Investing in sturdy rubber toys that dogs love can help redirect their focus away from your furniture or shoes. Giving them a secure spot they can call their own also limits access to items in the house they can potentially destroy with their teeth.
Will I be able to walk the dog at least 2x a day?
- Just like humans, dogs require exercise to keep healthy, both mentally and physically. This takes time. Walking a dog is among the best ways for a dog to spend their energy and stay in great shape.
Am I ready to pick up poop and clean up after 'accidents' occur in the home?
- This is a common problem. As responsible dog owners, we must realize that dogs need to be taught what actions and behaviors are acceptable and what isn’t. Be ready to take the time to potty train and be prepared for accidents to happen.
(See our potty training tips article here.)
Do I have a particular dog breed in mind and how does this breed fit in with my lifestyle?
- You might be a busy person and require a more independent breed that can withstand extended hours on its own. You might enjoy outdoor activities and would then be best paired with a dog breed that can keep up with you. Be sure to conduct an ample amount of research on the various dog breeds and their characteristics to find a perfect match for your lifestyle.
Have I found a reputable and responsible breeder to purchase from or maybe a rescue org to adopt from?
- This is an important one, guys! Do research on where you will be getting your dog from. It’s sad, but there are breeders around that push profit so hard that they over-breed a mother, creating an unhealthy situation for all involved. If you choose to rescue, be sure to get as much info as you can on the dog’s background.
Do I understand this is a lifetime commitment?
- We have seen many instances where puppies are loved and cherished while small but somehow get forgotten or ignored somewhere down the road. Remember that owning a dog is a lifelong commitment and always stay informed on responsible pet ownership.
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We understand that getting a new puppy brings about a lot to consider! But we are confident that with these questions to guide you, you will be able to come to the right decision for you and your family.
If you have any tips you would like to add, feel free to comment below. You might be able to help a future dog owner in their decision!
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