Have you been dreaming about getting your very own Spot or Fluffy to join you as you traipse through rolling green hills or rocky mountains? Have you been imagining picturesque walks with your pooch, whether it be a fluffy-haired golden retriever or barrel-chested St. Bernard? Dog ownership is a delight, but it’s important to consider this decision carefully before proceeding. Dogs take a lot of time and care — and it’s important to make sure you’re truly prepared before heading to the puppy pound. Here are three important considerations to keep in mind before committing to the next puppy-eyed… er, puppy that glances your way.
1. Time Commitment
Dogs demand plenty of time. While most consider this the very reason to get a dog, others may find themselves more reluctant. Many dogs require one, two, or even three walks per day. Puppies are especially demanding. Like newborns, they don’t fall into a regular sleeping pattern for weeks, if not months, and are up at all hours of the night — and demand that you be up, as well. During the nighttime hours, you’ll be expected to take them outside, potty train them, and play with them.
If you’re naturally an active person with a high tolerance for the enthusiastic antics of a puppy, this might be the ideal situation for you. But if you’d rather sleep in most mornings and work seventy-hour weeks, perhaps an older dog — or even a cat — would be the right choice.
2. Training
Besides potty training, all dogs need their caretaker to invest in basic behavioral training. Unfortunately, there are too many stories of situations that escalate until a dog has to be put down and a dog bite lawyer called. While not all dogs are aggressive — not even the much-stereotyped rottweiler or bulldog — many can be naturally. Luckily, firm training early on can rid most dogs of their more dangerous predilections.
You can (and should!) train your dog to do their business outdoors, walk by your side when on a leash, remain quiet and calm when strangers approach the door, and remain on all-fours when exciting new friends appear. While this takes a healthy dose of patience and commitment, eventually you may move on to the fun parts. Who doesn’t love a dog who’s trained to high-five on command, after all?
3. Ongoing Medical Care
As any dog-owner knows, dogs are often a bigger financial investment than they initially expect. Puppies need vaccines, and when they’re old enough, to be spayed or neutered, as well. And as dogs age, many acquire health complications, just as aging humans do. Often, dog-owners find themselves reluctant to part with their dog before its time — and can invest heavily in medications and surgeries to ease their dog’s end of life. While not all make this decision, it’s certainly something to keep in mind for the future.
While getting a dog is an exciting commitment, be sure you’re thoroughly prepared before adding a new member to your family. Take a paws and make a good choice — your future pet will thank you for it.