There are few things more picturesque than getting a dog to complete your family unit. Dogs provide unconditional love companionship, and above all, let’s face it, they are downright adorable.
What many first-time dog owners don’t realize, however, is that dogs are a long term commitment. Most dogs live an average of 12 years, so it’s important that you’re in it for the long haul. Along with being a lengthy commitment, there are also a considerable amount of challenges that come along with dog ownership.
It’s important to make sure that you know what you’re in for before you sign up for something too hastily. It would be a shame to abandon your dog as so many other people do throughout the year. Take a look at some of the most important things to keep in mind before you bring a dog home to the family.
You Should Know The Breed
People who have never had a dog before don’t realize that not all breeds are made the same. Certain breeds integrate well in some situations while others wouldn’t do well at all.
It’s important that you do plenty of dog breed research before bringing home your dog. You should pick one that is compatible with your lifestyle and living arrangement. You should know things how much they eat and how much they need to be walked. Decide whether that is something that could be realistic for you to follow through with for ten years or more.
Be Realistic About Your Schedule
Unlike cats, dogs don’t like to hang out by themselves for hours on end. It’s important that your schedule allows you to spend a certain amount of time with your dog every day. Dogs are similar to small children, in that they need plenty of attention.
In addition to needing one on one time, but also require walks. Does your schedule allow enough time to be able to walk at least 30 minutes a day in addition to playtime with your pet?
They Cost Money
A lot of people may think that dogs only cost the initial price of the purchase. However, dogs can cost thousands of dollars a year. Between their food, vet visits, and endless toys, you’re looking at a significant amount of money over the years. If you’re not willing to invest more money into your dog beyond the initial purchase, then you should consider not getting a dog at all.
They Require Patience
Unless you decide to adopt an older dog, you’ll need to accept the fact that your dog may not be potty trained initially. Your dog will require you to be patient with them as they learn how to avoid accidents. In some cases, dogs may require training to ensure that they stop bad habits before they even begin.
