How to Decide if a Dog is Right for You

If you're considering adding a new dog or puppy into your home, that is awesome! These simple steps will assist you in determining whether you're ready for a new dog.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• books
• advice
• veterinarian
• dog trainer
• dog groomer
• dog sitter/ boarding kennel
• patience

1. Discuss what you want in a dog (hunt), what you can live with (shedding), and what you really don't want (chase the cat). Do you want a specific breed? Are you going to adopt? Do you want a puppy or an older dog? Do you want a high-energy or low-energy dog? Will your dog be indoors or outdoors? Is anyone allergic to pet dander? Write your decisions on paper.
2. Ask yourself if you're able to provide the following for your dog: quality time, daily exercise, socializing, training, regular vet checks, and lots of patience. All dogs need these simple basics. If work or a new baby requires too much of your time, wait until more of your time is freed before bringing a new puppy/ dog home.
3. Do your research. Visit shelters and talk to the staff. Talk to your local vet, ask questions. Contact your local pet trainer, ask to view one of their classes. If your dog will be needing regular grooming, will you be doing it or a professional groomer? How much will all this cost you? Is this within your financial reach?
4. If you've come to the conclusion that a dog would be a great addition to your household, congratulations on your decision! Take your time looking for that perfect pet. If you're not ready, that's okay. Now you know what it takes to be a responsible dog owner, and you can start working on the things you need to in order to achieve your dream of owning a dog.

Tips & Warnings

• Big back yards are NOT enough for any dog to get their required daily exercise.
• Dogs do not exercise themselves. YOU have to exercise them. Think of it as training using the buddy system.
• Training should always be fun. Dogs learn best when it's fun.
• If you're still not certain, consider fostering a dog first before investing so much into a dog you may end up sending to a shelter.
• Dogs do better when they live indoors with you.
• Puppies and dogs are like children. You need to spend lots of time with them to teach them the rules of the house. Too many people expect their dogs to be instantly trained.
• Do NOT buy from a puppy mill or anyone who clearly doesn't care about a dog's well being. Let them know you're willing to take one of their dogs home to help them out. Make sure both of you come to the full understanding that the dog is yours to keep since you will provide all it's necessities.
• Spay and neuter your pets. Don't breed just because their cute. Dogs currently in shelters were also once cute.