Questions You Should Ask Yourself Before Getting a Dog

Before adopting or purchasing a dog, you should ask yourself and your family a few questions to make sure you are prepared to get a pet. Make sure that your lifestyle is compatible with having a dog, you have the money and the responsibility you will need for a pet and what type of dog suits you. Owning a dog is a lifelong commitment that you need to prepare for thoroughly.

  1. Is Your Life Dog-Friendly?

    • It is not enough to love dogs; you have to make sure your lifestyle can handle a pet or, if it does not, that you are willing to change your life. If you work too much or are not home a lot, you will not be able to walk your dog and give it the attention it needs. Even if you are available during the day to make sure your dog has enough exercise and the ability to urinate, you could need to change your lifestyle for your pet. Your family might have to get up a few hours earlier and get pet-sitters when you are out of town.

    Can You Afford a Dog?

    • Adopting a pet instead of purchasing a purebred dog might save you money, but dogs are still a serious financial commitment. Many shelters and rescue groups require an adoption fee, especially if they provide the animal with vaccinations. If the breeder or shelter does not vaccinate its animals, you need to take your dog to a vet immediately and keep it up-to-date on all recommended shots. In cases of emergencies and standard care, vet bills can be costly.

    Are You Responsible Enough?

    • Taking care of a dog, especially an energetic, untrained puppy, requires a lot of patience and dedication. Additionally, you are responsible for any problems your pet causes, such as unwanted offspring, property damage and injuring people or their pets. Some breeders encourage you to keep your dog intact if it is a purebred with distinctive lineage, while most shelters encourage you to take responsibility for your pet's reproduction and have it spayed or neutered.

    What Breed of Dog is Right For You?

    • Humans have bred dogs to maintain certain characteristics and created several thousand breeds of domestic dogs. Some have more energy, while others are known for their quiet nature. You must do your research carefully to decide which breed suits your lifestyle the best. If you adopt a pet, it is more likely that you will receive a mixed breed that might have characteristics of its ancestors. Animal Planet offers details about many different breeds of dogs, and you can always ask the breeder or adoption agency if it has witnessed any personality traits with its animals.